<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Led by senior defensive end&nbsp;Brendan Mott&nbsp;as the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year and an All-Big 12 First Team honoree, Kansas State&nbsp;football&nbsp;collected 17 total postseason conference honors as league announced the 2024 Coaches’ All-Big 12 selections on Thursday.

K-State’s 17 total selections ranked fifth in the conference behind Colorado (21), Arizona State (19), BYU (18) and Iowa State (18). It was the fourth-straight season the Wildcats combined for at least 15 All-Big 12 honors.

Mott, who was an honorable mention pick a year ago, collected the Wildcats’ conference-leading sixth Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year accolade since the award was introduced following the 2006 season, two more than the next closest school (Texas – 4). He joins former Wildcat winners Meshak Williams (2012), Ryan Mueller (2014), Jordan Willis (2016) and Felix Anudike-Uzomah (2021 and 2022).

A product of Iowa City, Iowa, Mott led the Big 12 during the regular season with 8.5 sacks, a mark that also ranked 21st nationally. His season high of 2.5 sacks at Colorado was the most by any Big 12 player in a game this season and most by a Wildcat since Anudike-Uzomah had 3.0 sacks at Texas Tech in 2022. Mott also led the Wildcats and tied for fourth in the Big 12 with 11.5 tackles for loss. He helped&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;defensive ends earn All-Big 12 First Team honors for the fourth time in the last five seasons.

K-State’s All-Big 12 Second Team honors included running back&nbsp;DJ Giddens, tight end&nbsp;Garrett Oakley, linebacker&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;and offensive linemen&nbsp;Easton Kilty&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sam Hecht. Giddens earned his second All-Big 12 honor in as many seasons as he was an honorable mention pick a year ago, while Romaine is on the All-Big 12 team for the first time after earning votes for the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year award last year. Oakley, Kilty and Hecht were each honored for the first time.

Giddens, a native of Junction City, finished the regular season ranking 11th nationally and fourth in the Big 12 with 1,343 rushing yards on 205 carries, scoring seven touchdowns while also adding 258 receiving yards and another score on 21 catches. A semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, Giddens ranks second nationally with 10 rushes of at least 30 yards and fourth with 17 rushes of at least 20 yards. He enters postseason play ranked 10th in the nation and fourth in the Big 12 with 133.4 scrimmage yards per game.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Led by senior defensive end&nbsp;Brendan Mott&nbsp;as the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year and an All-Big 12 First Team honoree, Kansas State&nbsp;football&nbsp;collected 17 total postseason conference honors as league announced the 2024 Coaches’ All-Big 12 selections on Thursday.K-State’s 17 total selections ranked fifth in the conference behind Colorado (21), Arizona State (19), BYU (18) and Iowa State (18). It was the fourth-straight season the Wildcats combined for at least 15 All-Big 12 honors.Mott, who was an honorable mention pick a year ago, collected the Wildcats’ conference-leading sixth Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year accolade since the award was introduced following the 2006 season, two more than the next closest school (Texas – 4). He joins former Wildcat winners Meshak Williams (2012), Ryan Mueller (2014), Jordan Willis (2016) and Felix Anudike-Uzomah (2021 and 2022).A product of Iowa City, Iowa, Mott led the Big 12 during the regular season with 8.5 sacks, a mark that also ranked 21st nationally. His season high of 2.5 sacks at Colorado was the most by any Big 12 player in a game this season and most by a Wildcat since Anudike-Uzomah had 3.0 sacks at Texas Tech in 2022. Mott also led the Wildcats and tied for fourth in the Big 12 with 11.5 tackles for loss. He helped&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;defensive ends earn All-Big 12 First Team honors for the fourth time in the last five seasons.K-State’s All-Big 12 Second Team honors included running back&nbsp;DJ Giddens, tight end&nbsp;Garrett Oakley, linebacker&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;and offensive linemen&nbsp;Easton Kilty&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sam Hecht. Giddens earned his second All-Big 12 honor in as many seasons as he was an honorable mention pick a year ago, while Romaine is on the All-Big 12 team for the first time after earning votes for the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year award last year. Oakley, Kilty and Hecht were each honored for the first time.Giddens, a native of Junction City, finished the regular season ranking 11th nationally and fourth in the Big 12 with 1,343 rushing yards on 205 carries, scoring seven touchdowns while also adding 258 receiving yards and another score on 21 catches. A semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, Giddens ranks second nationally with 10 rushes of at least 30 yards and fourth with 17 rushes of at least 20 yards. He enters postseason play ranked 10th in the nation and fourth in the Big 12 with 133.4 scrimmage yards per game.

K-State Garners 17 Selections on Coaches’ All-Big 12 Teams

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Pop Isaacs helped unranked Creighton upset No. 1 Kansas 76-63 on Wednesday night, scoring a season-high 27 points and matching his career high with six 3-pointers.

Kansas cut a 13-point deficit to one early in the second half, but Isaacs hit back-to-back 3s to rebuild the lead as the Bluejays (6-3) pulled away for their second straight victory over a top-ranked opponent. They knocked off Connecticut 85-66 in Omaha in February.

The Jayhawks (7-1) lost a regular-season game against an unranked nonconference opponent for the first time in three years. Creighton had been in 16 straight Associated Press polls before dropping out this week following losses in three of its previous four games.

Students rushed the court at the final buzzer as flames shot out of the top of the goal standards.

Isaacs’ shooting display overshadowed what was supposed to be the featured matchup between two of the nation’s best big men, the 7-foot-1 Ryan Kalkbrenner and the Jayhawks’ 7-2 Hunter Dickinson.

Kalkbrenner, who had missed the Bluejays' previous game because of a lower-body injury, and Steven Ashworth each scored 17 points.

The Jayhawks struggled offensively and never led. Dajuan Harris had 15 points and AJ Storr and Zeke Mayo added 12 apiece for Kansas.

Kansas: The Jayhawks could never find a rhythm offensively. Dickinson had difficulty getting touches and took only four shots, making two.

Creighton: When the Bluejays make their 3-pointers, they’re tough to beat. They came into the game shooting 32% from distance but were 12 of 29 against the Jayhawks.

Issacs' back-to-back 3s early in the second half stemmed Kansas' comeback attempt, putting the Bluejays up 49-40.

Greg McDermott, the Bluejays' career coaching wins leader and a former coach at Iowa State, won for the first time in his 11 games against Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733368687597.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Pop Isaacs helped unranked Creighton upset No. 1 Kansas 76-63 on Wednesday night, scoring a season-high 27 points and matching his career high with six 3-pointers.Kansas cut a 13-point deficit to one early in the second half, but Isaacs hit back-to-back 3s to rebuild the lead as the Bluejays (6-3) pulled away for their second straight victory over a top-ranked opponent. They knocked off Connecticut 85-66 in Omaha in February.The Jayhawks (7-1) lost a regular-season game against an unranked nonconference opponent for the first time in three years. Creighton had been in 16 straight Associated Press polls before dropping out this week following losses in three of its previous four games.Students rushed the court at the final buzzer as flames shot out of the top of the goal standards.Isaacs’ shooting display overshadowed what was supposed to be the featured matchup between two of the nation’s best big men, the 7-foot-1 Ryan Kalkbrenner and the Jayhawks’ 7-2 Hunter Dickinson.Kalkbrenner, who had missed the Bluejays' previous game because of a lower-body injury, and Steven Ashworth each scored 17 points.The Jayhawks struggled offensively and never led. Dajuan Harris had 15 points and AJ Storr and Zeke Mayo added 12 apiece for Kansas.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks could never find a rhythm offensively. Dickinson had difficulty getting touches and took only four shots, making two.Creighton: When the Bluejays make their 3-pointers, they’re tough to beat. They came into the game shooting 32% from distance but were 12 of 29 against the Jayhawks.<h2>Key moment</h2>Issacs' back-to-back 3s early in the second half stemmed Kansas' comeback attempt, putting the Bluejays up 49-40.<h2>Key stat</h2>Greg McDermott, the Bluejays' career coaching wins leader and a former coach at Iowa State, won for the first time in his 11 games against Kansas.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: At Missouri on Sunday.Creighton: Hosts UNLV on Saturday.

🏀 Creighton knocks off No. 1 Kansas behind Pop Isaacs' 27 points

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/documents/2024/12/4/2025_Early_Signing_Day_Release.pdf">Signing Day Bios</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/football/roster/2025-26">Signing Days Roster</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23822&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-signing-day-press-conference-december-4-2025/4930">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Wednesday the signing of 26 prospects during the early 2025 signing period.

So far, K-State’s Class of 2025 is comprised of 24 high school prospects and two community-college transfers. Of the 26 overall players, 15 players are on defense, 10 are on offense and there is one specialist. There are five linebackers, four safeties, four wide receivers, three offensive linemen, two cornerbacks and defensive ends, one defensive back, one defensive tackle, one punter/kicker, one quarterback, one running back and one tight end.

K-State cast a wide net as the 26 signees hail from 12 different states, the second time in the last three years the Wildcats had signees from at least 12 states (13 in 2023). Once again, Kansas leads in terms of numbers from one state with five, as it marks the 16th-straight season the Wildcats have signed at least four in-state prep players. Additionally, the Class of 2025 includes five players from Texas, four from Florida and Missouri, and one apiece from Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina and Ohio.

Of the 26 signees on Wednesday, 14 are expected to enroll at K-State for the 2025 spring semester. The list includes:&nbsp;Logan Bartley,&nbsp;Nunu Concepcion,&nbsp;Jemyri Davis,&nbsp;Dillon Duff,&nbsp;Monterrio Elston Jr.,&nbsp;Noah King,&nbsp;Adonis Moise,&nbsp;Cub Patton,&nbsp;Weston Polk,&nbsp;Larry Porter IV,&nbsp;Sawyer Schilke,&nbsp;Brad Stanyer,&nbsp;Patrick Tackie&nbsp;and&nbsp;Dylan Villarouel.

Kansas State may add more prospects to the Class of 2025 during the regular signing period, which opens on Wednesday, February 5.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/documents/2024/12/4/2025_Early_Signing_Day_Release.pdf">Signing Day Bios</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/football/roster/2025-26">Signing Days Roster</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23822&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-signing-day-press-conference-december-4-2025/4930">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Wednesday the signing of 26 prospects during the early 2025 signing period.So far, K-State’s Class of 2025 is comprised of 24 high school prospects and two community-college transfers. Of the 26 overall players, 15 players are on defense, 10 are on offense and there is one specialist. There are five linebackers, four safeties, four wide receivers, three offensive linemen, two cornerbacks and defensive ends, one defensive back, one defensive tackle, one punter/kicker, one quarterback, one running back and one tight end.K-State cast a wide net as the 26 signees hail from 12 different states, the second time in the last three years the Wildcats had signees from at least 12 states (13 in 2023). Once again, Kansas leads in terms of numbers from one state with five, as it marks the 16th-straight season the Wildcats have signed at least four in-state prep players. Additionally, the Class of 2025 includes five players from Texas, four from Florida and Missouri, and one apiece from Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina and Ohio.Of the 26 signees on Wednesday, 14 are expected to enroll at K-State for the 2025 spring semester. The list includes:&nbsp;Logan Bartley,&nbsp;Nunu Concepcion,&nbsp;Jemyri Davis,&nbsp;Dillon Duff,&nbsp;Monterrio Elston Jr.,&nbsp;Noah King,&nbsp;Adonis Moise,&nbsp;Cub Patton,&nbsp;Weston Polk,&nbsp;Larry Porter IV,&nbsp;Sawyer Schilke,&nbsp;Brad Stanyer,&nbsp;Patrick Tackie&nbsp;and&nbsp;Dylan Villarouel.Kansas State may add more prospects to the Class of 2025 during the regular signing period, which opens on Wednesday, February 5.RYAN LACKEY

K-State Signs 26 During 2025 Early Signing Period

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Ayoka Lee scored 15 points and became Kansas State's all-time leading scorer as the 13th-ranked Wildcats blasted Eastern Illinois 90-43 on Tuesday night.

<a href="https://x.com/KStateWBB/status/1864125520327397726">Lee scored her 13th point on a layup at the 6:59 mark of the third quarter</a>&nbsp;to give her 2,334 points, one more than Kendra Wecker had in her career that ended in 2005.

Zyanna Walker led the Wildcats (8-1) with 16 points, matching her career high, to go with a career-high 10 assists, four rebounds, four steals and two blocks. Taryn Sides scored 12 points and Jaelyn Glenn and Kennedy Taylor had 11 each.

Kiyley Flowers had nine points to pace the Panthers (2-4), who shot 28%.

K-State shot 54.5% and was 11 of 20 from 3-point range, led by Sides going 4 of 4.

Walker had 11 points at the half as the Wildcats shot 57% to race to a 41-19 lead as the Panthers shot 29%.

Walker opened the game with a pair of fastbreak layups and Lee had five points in the last minute as Kansas State took a 20-7 lead in the first quarter. Glenn started and ended a 12-0 run in the second quarter that produced a 35-11 lead.

The Wildcats scored the first 17 points of the second half to lead by 39.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Ayoka Lee scored 15 points and became Kansas State's all-time leading scorer as the 13th-ranked Wildcats blasted Eastern Illinois 90-43 on Tuesday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">During tonight&#39;s home game versus Eastern Illinois, Ayoka Lee reached #1 on the list of K-State All-Time Scoring Leaders. Her layup at 6:59 of the 3rd quarter surpassed the record held by Kendra Wecker. She now sits at the top with 2,336 points, 15 from today’s game.… <a href="https://t.co/3uT81CD4gx">pic.twitter.com/3uT81CD4gx</a>&mdash; K-State Women&#39;s Basketball (@KStateWBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateWBB/status/1864133501567815845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://x.com/KStateWBB/status/1864125520327397726">Lee scored her 13th point on a layup at the 6:59 mark of the third quarter</a>&nbsp;to give her 2,334 points, one more than Kendra Wecker had in her career that ended in 2005.Zyanna Walker led the Wildcats (8-1) with 16 points, matching her career high, to go with a career-high 10 assists, four rebounds, four steals and two blocks. Taryn Sides scored 12 points and Jaelyn Glenn and Kennedy Taylor had 11 each.Kiyley Flowers had nine points to pace the Panthers (2-4), who shot 28%.K-State shot 54.5% and was 11 of 20 from 3-point range, led by Sides going 4 of 4.Walker had 11 points at the half as the Wildcats shot 57% to race to a 41-19 lead as the Panthers shot 29%.Walker opened the game with a pair of fastbreak layups and Lee had five points in the last minute as Kansas State took a 20-7 lead in the first quarter. Glenn started and ended a 12-0 run in the second quarter that produced a 35-11 lead.The Wildcats scored the first 17 points of the second half to lead by 39.

🏀 Ayoka Lee sets scoring record for K-State women in win over Eastern Illinois

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Dana Dimel, who spent 20 years as a part of Bill Snyder’s K-State coaching staff, passed away Tuesday at the age of 62, his family announced. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and children, Winston and Josey.

Dimel, who spent the 2024 season on former Wildcat assistant Bret Bielema’s staff at Illinois, served three stints on Snyder's staff at K-State following an All-America playing career as an offensive tackle for the Wildcats from 1984-86.

He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant in Manhattan in 1987-88 leading into eight seasons (1989-96) as an assistant coach. He returned to K-State for one season in 2005 and then returned to K-State for the third time and spent nine seasons (2009-17) as the program's offensive coordinator and running backs/tight ends coach.

Overall Dimel was a part of 12 bowl teams during 19 seasons in Manhattan. The Wildcats posted an 11-win season (2012) with a Big 12 Championship, two 10-win campaigns (1995 and 2011) and five nine-win seasons (1993, 1994, 1996, 2014, and 2016) during that span, and finished in the top-25 of the BCS and CFP rankings on three occasions – 2011 (No. 8 BCS), 2012 (No. 5 BCS), and 2014 (No. 11 CFP).

Dimel, a Columbus, Ohio, native, compiled the most wins of any active offensive coordinator in college football from 2011-17 (61) and was a part of eight straight bowl appearances. Overall, in his 32 seasons as a head or assistant coach, Dimel mentored 37 players who went on to play in the NFL.

In addition to his time at K-State, Dimel had successful head coaching stops at Wyoming (1997-1999), Houston (2000-2002) and UTEP (2018-2023).

“Obviously, we are very saddened by the passing of Dana," said former Wildcat coach Bill Snyder. "He was a special friend and coaching companion. I admired his passion for helping his players and fellow coaches. He was a big part of the development of the Kansas State football program, and along with his wife Julie, very meaningful in the Manhattan community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733242304015.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. – Dana Dimel, who spent 20 years as a part of Bill Snyder’s K-State coaching staff, passed away Tuesday at the age of 62, his family announced. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and children, Winston and Josey.Dimel, who spent the 2024 season on former Wildcat assistant Bret Bielema’s staff at Illinois, served three stints on Snyder's staff at K-State following an All-America playing career as an offensive tackle for the Wildcats from 1984-86.He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant in Manhattan in 1987-88 leading into eight seasons (1989-96) as an assistant coach. He returned to K-State for one season in 2005 and then returned to K-State for the third time and spent nine seasons (2009-17) as the program's offensive coordinator and running backs/tight ends coach.Overall Dimel was a part of 12 bowl teams during 19 seasons in Manhattan. The Wildcats posted an 11-win season (2012) with a Big 12 Championship, two 10-win campaigns (1995 and 2011) and five nine-win seasons (1993, 1994, 1996, 2014, and 2016) during that span, and finished in the top-25 of the BCS and CFP rankings on three occasions – 2011 (No. 8 BCS), 2012 (No. 5 BCS), and 2014 (No. 11 CFP).Dimel, a Columbus, Ohio, native, compiled the most wins of any active offensive coordinator in college football from 2011-17 (61) and was a part of eight straight bowl appearances. Overall, in his 32 seasons as a head or assistant coach, Dimel mentored 37 players who went on to play in the NFL.In addition to his time at K-State, Dimel had successful head coaching stops at Wyoming (1997-1999), Houston (2000-2002) and UTEP (2018-2023).“Obviously, we are very saddened by the passing of Dana," said former Wildcat coach Bill Snyder. "He was a special friend and coaching companion. I admired his passion for helping his players and fellow coaches. He was a big part of the development of the Kansas State football program, and along with his wife Julie, very meaningful in the Manhattan community.”

Longtime K-State coach Dana Dimel passes away

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Achor Achor scored 21 points to lead six in double figures and a late flurry of 3-pointers gave Kansas State the school scoring record in a 120-73 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Sunday.

The Wildcats scored their last 21 points on seven 3-pointers and finished with 21 3-pointers — the second most in school history — in 40 attempts.

A 3-pointer by Taj Manning gave K-State 117 points with 2 minutes to go, breaking the school record of 116 points set in a win over Texas last season. Dug McDaniel added a 3-pointer a minute later for the final score.

Led by Achor, Kansas State (6-2) had 68 bench points. McDaniel had 18 points and 10 assists and David Castillo, who made five 3-pointers, had 17 points. Among the starters, David N’Guessan had 17 points, Brendan Hausen 14 and Max Jones 12.

Chop Paljor scored 15, Dante Sawyer 12 and Kyle Brown 10 for the Lions (1-8).

Kansas State shot 62% overall and 53% from 3-point distance. The Wildcats had only 36 points in the paint but made 19 of their 25 two-point tries.

The Wildcats turned six UAPB turnovers into 16 points and led 30-11 with 12 1/2 minutes left in the first half. Hausen scored nine points and N’Guessan seven in the outburst.

K-State scored 54 points in the first 15 minutes, shooting 57% overall and making 9 of 16 3-pointers in that span. The Wildcats led 54-24 with 5 minutes left and 63-33 at halftime. Castillo had 11 points and Achor scored 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733102148949.png" alt="Photo - K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo - K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Achor Achor scored 21 points to lead six in double figures and a late flurry of 3-pointers gave Kansas State the school scoring record in a 120-73 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Sunday.The Wildcats scored their last 21 points on seven 3-pointers and finished with 21 3-pointers — the second most in school history — in 40 attempts.A 3-pointer by Taj Manning gave K-State 117 points with 2 minutes to go, breaking the school record of 116 points set in a win over Texas last season. Dug McDaniel added a 3-pointer a minute later for the final score.Led by Achor, Kansas State (6-2) had 68 bench points. McDaniel had 18 points and 10 assists and David Castillo, who made five 3-pointers, had 17 points. Among the starters, David N’Guessan had 17 points, Brendan Hausen 14 and Max Jones 12.Chop Paljor scored 15, Dante Sawyer 12 and Kyle Brown 10 for the Lions (1-8).Kansas State shot 62% overall and 53% from 3-point distance. The Wildcats had only 36 points in the paint but made 19 of their 25 two-point tries.The Wildcats turned six UAPB turnovers into 16 points and led 30-11 with 12 1/2 minutes left in the first half. Hausen scored nine points and N’Guessan seven in the outburst.K-State scored 54 points in the first 15 minutes, shooting 57% overall and making 9 of 16 3-pointers in that span. The Wildcats led 54-24 with 5 minutes left and 63-33 at halftime. Castillo had 11 points and Achor scored 10.

🏀 K- State buries Arkansas-Pine Bluff with school-record 120 points

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Rocco Becht threw for two touchdowns and ran for another and No. 17 Iowa State's defense came up with big stops in the second half to help the Cyclones beat Kansas State 29-21 on a cold Saturday night for the first 10-win season in program history.

About three hours after the game ended, they had their ticket to the Big 12 championship game punched when BYU's win over Houston provided the help they needed to advance to a meeting with Arizona State next Saturday night at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The Cyclones (10-2, 7-2 Big 12, No. 18 CFP) will make their second appearance in the conference championship game. They lost to Oklahoma in 2020.

“It will have been earned. Our kids have really never wavered," said Iowa State coach Matt Campbell, whose team bounced back from two straight losses after a 7-0 start and won their third straight. “It'll be a great opportunity for our program and obviously for our fanbase to be able to be a part of that with us.”

Becht’s first touchdown pass, a 15-yarder to Jayden Higgins, came after Myles Purchase recovered Avery Johnson’s errant pitch on the game’s first play from scrimmage. Becht’s 9-yard TD pass to Jaylin Noel came after Joey Petersen picked up Keagan Johnson’s fumble. Noel went over 1,000 yards receiving for the season with the catch.

Becht’s 5-yard run put the Cyclones up 24-14 at half.

“The ability for our kids to make critical plays in critical moments was certainly the difference in the game,” Campbell said. “We knew with the weather and the field, it was going to be a hard-fought football game. We were going to have to make those plays. Probably fitting for this team to win that way and finish the regular season. Really excited for them and what they’ve accomplished, and certainly for what the future holds for them as well.”

A safety and Kyle Konrardy’s 20-yard field goal gave Iowa State an eight-point lead in the middle of the fourth quarter.

The Wildcats (8-4, 5-4, No. 24 CFP) turned over the ball on downs at the Cyclones’ 35 when a pass went off Garrett Oakley’s hands on a fourth-and-2 with 4:59 left. They got the ball back for a final possession with no timeouts and 1:11 left when Kyle Konrardy missed what would have been a game-clinching 37-yard field goal. K-State went nowhere, with Avery Johnson knocked out of the game on third down and Ta’Quan Roberson throwing incomplete on fourth-and-15.

Becht took a knee, and the fans poured out of the stands to celebrate with the Cyclones on the field.

“Can’t play a team like that and make the mistakes we made,” K-State coach Chris Klieman said. "We made some mistakes in that first half that led to points, and you can’t do that against good football teams. That’s obvious.

“Congratulations to Matt and his team. They’ll represent the Big 12 well. They don’t make mistakes, and we made them today, and that got us down at halftime.”

Avery Johnson threw touchdown passes of 28 and 65 yards to Jayce Brown in the first half, and his 7-yarder to Oakley pulled K-State within 24-21 late in the third quarter. He threw for 220 yards and ran for 64 on 13 carries, and Brown caught three balls for 106 yards.

The Cyclones made a huge stop earlier in the third after DJ Giddens’s 36-yard run set up K-State inside the 5-yard line. They kept the Wildcats out of the end zone, and then Darien Porter blew through the right side of the line to block Chris Tennant’s 21-yard field-goal try.

The defense recorded a safety when Jacob Ellis chased Avery Johnson into his own end zone. Johnson desperately unloaded the ball and was called for intentional grounding.

Kansas State: The Wildcats failed to play spoiler after finding out their hopes of making the Big 12 championship game were squashed earlier in the day. Two turnovers, having a field goal blocked, surrendering a safety and failing to convert two fourth-and-2s hurt.

Iowa State: The Cyclones' seven conference wins are the second-most in program history — they had eight in 2020 — and their 17 wins since 2023 mark their best two-year stretch. They also finished in the top four of the Big 12 for the seventh time in eight seasons.

Iowa State could move up a bit with No. 12 Clemson losing this week.

Iowa State: Will play in a bowl game and possibly the Big 12 championship game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1733031518300.jpeg" alt="Kansas State receiver Jayce Brown caught a 65 yard touchdown pass during K State's 29-21 loss to Iowa State/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State receiver Jayce Brown caught a 65 yard touchdown pass during K State's 29-21 loss to Iowa State/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>AMES, Iowa (AP) — Rocco Becht threw for two touchdowns and ran for another and No. 17 Iowa State's defense came up with big stops in the second half to help the Cyclones beat Kansas State 29-21 on a cold Saturday night for the first 10-win season in program history.About three hours after the game ended, they had their ticket to the Big 12 championship game punched when BYU's win over Houston provided the help they needed to advance to a meeting with Arizona State next Saturday night at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.The Cyclones (10-2, 7-2 Big 12, No. 18 CFP) will make their second appearance in the conference championship game. They lost to Oklahoma in 2020.“It will have been earned. Our kids have really never wavered," said Iowa State coach Matt Campbell, whose team bounced back from two straight losses after a 7-0 start and won their third straight. “It'll be a great opportunity for our program and obviously for our fanbase to be able to be a part of that with us.”Becht’s first touchdown pass, a 15-yarder to Jayden Higgins, came after Myles Purchase recovered Avery Johnson’s errant pitch on the game’s first play from scrimmage. Becht’s 9-yard TD pass to Jaylin Noel came after Joey Petersen picked up Keagan Johnson’s fumble. Noel went over 1,000 yards receiving for the season with the catch.Becht’s 5-yard run put the Cyclones up 24-14 at half.“The ability for our kids to make critical plays in critical moments was certainly the difference in the game,” Campbell said. “We knew with the weather and the field, it was going to be a hard-fought football game. We were going to have to make those plays. Probably fitting for this team to win that way and finish the regular season. Really excited for them and what they’ve accomplished, and certainly for what the future holds for them as well.”A safety and Kyle Konrardy’s 20-yard field goal gave Iowa State an eight-point lead in the middle of the fourth quarter.The Wildcats (8-4, 5-4, No. 24 CFP) turned over the ball on downs at the Cyclones’ 35 when a pass went off Garrett Oakley’s hands on a fourth-and-2 with 4:59 left. They got the ball back for a final possession with no timeouts and 1:11 left when Kyle Konrardy missed what would have been a game-clinching 37-yard field goal. K-State went nowhere, with Avery Johnson knocked out of the game on third down and Ta’Quan Roberson throwing incomplete on fourth-and-15.Becht took a knee, and the fans poured out of the stands to celebrate with the Cyclones on the field.“Can’t play a team like that and make the mistakes we made,” K-State coach Chris Klieman said. "We made some mistakes in that first half that led to points, and you can’t do that against good football teams. That’s obvious.“Congratulations to Matt and his team. They’ll represent the Big 12 well. They don’t make mistakes, and we made them today, and that got us down at halftime.”Avery Johnson threw touchdown passes of 28 and 65 yards to Jayce Brown in the first half, and his 7-yarder to Oakley pulled K-State within 24-21 late in the third quarter. He threw for 220 yards and ran for 64 on 13 carries, and Brown caught three balls for 106 yards.The Cyclones made a huge stop earlier in the third after DJ Giddens’s 36-yard run set up K-State inside the 5-yard line. They kept the Wildcats out of the end zone, and then Darien Porter blew through the right side of the line to block Chris Tennant’s 21-yard field-goal try.The defense recorded a safety when Jacob Ellis chased Avery Johnson into his own end zone. Johnson desperately unloaded the ball and was called for intentional grounding.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Kansas State: The Wildcats failed to play spoiler after finding out their hopes of making the Big 12 championship game were squashed earlier in the day. Two turnovers, having a field goal blocked, surrendering a safety and failing to convert two fourth-and-2s hurt.Iowa State: The Cyclones' seven conference wins are the second-most in program history — they had eight in 2020 — and their 17 wins since 2023 mark their best two-year stretch. They also finished in the top four of the Big 12 for the seventh time in eight seasons.<h2>Poll implications</h2>Iowa State could move up a bit with No. 12 Clemson losing this week.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State: Will play in a bowl game.Iowa State: Will play in a bowl game and possibly the Big 12 championship game.

🏈 Iowa St beats K-State, will play Sun Devils for Big 12 title

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — KJ Adams matched a career-high 22 points and No. 1 Kansas used a 30-9 run at the end of the first half and the beginning of the second to beat Furman 86-51 on Saturday night.

Hunter Dickinson had 10 points and six rebounds for the Jayhawks (7-0), who handled the trap game nestled between last week's win over No. 11 Duke in Las Vegas and next week's trip to No. 21 Creighton for the Big 12-Big East Battle.

The Jayhawks and Paladins (7-1) began the day as two of 23 unbeatens left in men's Division I basketball.

Kansas led just 27-26 before Flory Bidunga's basket completed a 12-2 run to end the first half. The charge continued in the second, and Adams eventually converted a three-point play to give the Jayhawks a 57-35 lead with 13 1/2 minutes to go.

Eddrin Bronson scored 14 points and Garrett Hien had 12 points for the Paladins.

Furman: The Paladins are seventh nationally in 3s per game, and they knocked down four of their first seven to hang around. But the Paladins were just 2 of 16 the rest of the first half, and that resulted in a 39-28 deficit that they could never overcome.

Kansas: The Jayhawks pulled away early in the second half despite missing their first six 3-point attempts. The Jayhawks didn't hit one until Zeke Mayo's 3-pointer with 15:14 remaining gave them a 54-35 lead.

In the first half, Mayo kicked the ball, which ricocheted and nearly hit Ted Lasso actor and Jayhawks fan Jason Sudeikis.

Adams was 10 of 12 from the field and 2 of 2 at the foul line.

Furman visits Florida Gulf Coast on Wednesday night, and Kansas visits the Bluejays the same night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1733023157323.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — KJ Adams matched a career-high 22 points and No. 1 Kansas used a 30-9 run at the end of the first half and the beginning of the second to beat Furman 86-51 on Saturday night.Hunter Dickinson had 10 points and six rebounds for the Jayhawks (7-0), who handled the trap game nestled between last week's win over No. 11 Duke in Las Vegas and next week's trip to No. 21 Creighton for the Big 12-Big East Battle.The Jayhawks and Paladins (7-1) began the day as two of 23 unbeatens left in men's Division I basketball.Kansas led just 27-26 before Flory Bidunga's basket completed a 12-2 run to end the first half. The charge continued in the second, and Adams eventually converted a three-point play to give the Jayhawks a 57-35 lead with 13 1/2 minutes to go.Eddrin Bronson scored 14 points and Garrett Hien had 12 points for the Paladins.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Furman: The Paladins are seventh nationally in 3s per game, and they knocked down four of their first seven to hang around. But the Paladins were just 2 of 16 the rest of the first half, and that resulted in a 39-28 deficit that they could never overcome.Kansas: The Jayhawks pulled away early in the second half despite missing their first six 3-point attempts. The Jayhawks didn't hit one until Zeke Mayo's 3-pointer with 15:14 remaining gave them a 54-35 lead.<h2>Key moment</h2>In the first half, Mayo kicked the ball, which ricocheted and nearly hit Ted Lasso actor and Jayhawks fan Jason Sudeikis.<h2>Key stat</h2>Adams was 10 of 12 from the field and 2 of 2 at the foul line.<h2>Up next</h2>Furman visits Florida Gulf Coast on Wednesday night, and Kansas visits the Bluejays the same night.___

🏀 Adams matches career high as No. 1 Kansas cruises past Furman

WACO, Texas (AP) — Sawyer Robertson threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns as Baylor won its sixth straight to keep alive its slim hopes for a berth in the Big 12 championship game, beating Kansas 45-17 on Saturday.

The Bears (8-4, 6-3 Big 12) scored touchdowns on three consecutive possessions in the first half to take a 21-7 lead, then found the end zone on all three of their drives in the third quarter.

Bryson Washington ran for 192 yards on 27 carries that included a 10-yard TD run and punching in from the 1 in the second half for Baylor.

Kansas (5-7, 4-5) entered on a three-game winning streak — all against ranked teams — to be in position for bowl eligibility with a win. But the Jayhawks had no answers for Baylor’s offensive.

Baylor, which started 0-3 in league play, had to wait for the outcomes of games later Saturday. Arizona had to beat Arizona State, Kansas State had to beat Iowa State and Houston had to beat BYU for the Bears to get into next week's conference title game.

Robertson was 23-for-31 passing, with TDs of 36- and 39-yards to Monaray Baldwin in the first quarter before a 14-yard score to Josh Cameron in the second. Baldwin caught seven passes for 119 yards, and Cameron added eight receptions for 102.

Devin Neal ran for 133 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries for Kansas. Jalon Daniels was 12-of-23 passing for 280 yards passing, and had two passes intercepted by Baylor safety Devyn Bobby.

Kansas: The Jayhawks rarely had issues moving the ball in the first half. Despite trailing 21-10 at intermission, the Jayhawks had outgained Baylor 301-283. Their problems came with holding onto the ball and scoring when they had the chance. Tabor Allen missed a 38-yard field goal to end the Jayhawks’ first possession, and they had promising drives end on a Daniels interception and Tevita Noa fumble after a 39-yard reception.

Baylor: The Bears made a remarkable turnaround in the second half of the season. They began the year with coach Dave Aranda’s future considered tenuous at best, and a 2-4 start only made calls for him to be replaced louder. But Aranda and Baylor haven’t lost since Oct. 5 against Iowa State.

Baylor had to wait to see when and where it will play its next game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1733002484124.png" alt="Photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>WACO, Texas (AP) — Sawyer Robertson threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns as Baylor won its sixth straight to keep alive its slim hopes for a berth in the Big 12 championship game, beating Kansas 45-17 on Saturday.The Bears (8-4, 6-3 Big 12) scored touchdowns on three consecutive possessions in the first half to take a 21-7 lead, then found the end zone on all three of their drives in the third quarter.Bryson Washington ran for 192 yards on 27 carries that included a 10-yard TD run and punching in from the 1 in the second half for Baylor.Kansas (5-7, 4-5) entered on a three-game winning streak — all against ranked teams — to be in position for bowl eligibility with a win. But the Jayhawks had no answers for Baylor’s offensive.Baylor, which started 0-3 in league play, had to wait for the outcomes of games later Saturday. Arizona had to beat Arizona State, Kansas State had to beat Iowa State and Houston had to beat BYU for the Bears to get into next week's conference title game.Robertson was 23-for-31 passing, with TDs of 36- and 39-yards to Monaray Baldwin in the first quarter before a 14-yard score to Josh Cameron in the second. Baldwin caught seven passes for 119 yards, and Cameron added eight receptions for 102.Devin Neal ran for 133 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries for Kansas. Jalon Daniels was 12-of-23 passing for 280 yards passing, and had two passes intercepted by Baylor safety Devyn Bobby.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks rarely had issues moving the ball in the first half. Despite trailing 21-10 at intermission, the Jayhawks had outgained Baylor 301-283. Their problems came with holding onto the ball and scoring when they had the chance. Tabor Allen missed a 38-yard field goal to end the Jayhawks’ first possession, and they had promising drives end on a Daniels interception and Tevita Noa fumble after a 39-yard reception.Baylor: The Bears made a remarkable turnaround in the second half of the season. They began the year with coach Dave Aranda’s future considered tenuous at best, and a 2-4 start only made calls for him to be replaced louder. But Aranda and Baylor haven’t lost since Oct. 5 against Iowa State.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas’ season is over.Baylor had to wait to see when and where it will play its next game.

🏈  Baylor wins 6th straight to end Kansas season

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs recovered a botched snap while the Las Vegas Raiders were within range of a go-ahead field goal with 15 seconds remaining on Friday, preserving a 19-17 victory for Kansas City and giving the franchise its 10th consecutive playoff berth.

The Raiders (2-10) had taken over at their own 8-yard line with just under two minutes to go, and Aidan O'Connell quickly moved them across midfield, eventually spiking the ball at the Kansas City 32 to stop the clock.

Rather than try a potential winning field goal — Daniel Carlson had already missed three from 50-plus — the Raiders lined up to run a play. Andre James snapped the ball when O'Connell wasn't expecting it and it bounced off the quarterback's shoulder. Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton jumped on the ball, and the recovery stood when a flag on the play turned out to be an illegal shift by the Raiders.

It was the 14th consecutive game decided by one possession that Kansas City (11-1) has won.

The Raiders had a chance earlier in the fourth quarter, and O'Connell similarly drove them across midfield. But the Chiefs forced three straight incomplete passes — George Karlaftis and Justin Reid batted down two — to bring up fourth down. Carlson headed onto the field, but his 58-yard try with 2:21 never got near the uprights.

Patrick Mahomes had 306 yards passing and a TD for Kansas City, while fill-in kicker Matt Wright made four field goals.

O'Connell finished with 340 yards passing and two touchdowns for the Raiders, who have lost eight of nine to their bitter AFC West rivals. Brock Bowers had 10 catches for 140 yards and one of the scores.

The hapless Raiders were able to hang around thanks to the same problems that have plagued the Chiefs much of the season: Their offensive tackles were unable to give Mahomes time to throw, their secondary kept breaking down and they committed too many penalties — three on one offensive possession alone.

In fact, Mahomes was under extreme duress when he found Justin Watson from 6 yards out late in the first half. The pass not only gave the Chiefs a 10-3 lead but sent the two-time MVP past Len Dawson with his franchise-record 328th TD throw.

O'Connell, who was thrust back onto the field when Gardner Minshew went on injured reserve with a broken collarbone this week, got off to a slow start after missing a month with a broken thumb. But while the Chiefs continued to kick field goals, the second-year pro found his rhythm for the Raiders, eventually slinging a pair of TD passes to give Las Vegas the lead.

The first was to Bowers, already one of the most productive rookies in NFL history, with 1:40 left in the third quarter. Then, after the Chiefs went three-and-out, O'Connell hit Tre Tucker with 58-yard strike on the first play of the fourth quarter.

The Chiefs answered with Wright's fourth field goal to take a 19-17 lead with about 10 minutes to go.

Chris Jones had two sacks for Kansas City. He had not had one the previous seven games. ... Las Vegas has trailed by double digits in every game this season. ... Mahomes had gone 113 straight starts without being sacked five-plus times. Carolina and Las Vegas have done it in consecutive weeks.

Raiders: WR DJ Turner left in the second half with a knee injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732923500351.png" alt="Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (32) holds the recovery ball after a fumble by the Las Vegas Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. Credit: AP/Ed Zurga" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (32) holds the recovery ball after a fumble by the Las Vegas Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. Credit: AP/Ed Zurga</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs recovered a botched snap while the Las Vegas Raiders were within range of a go-ahead field goal with 15 seconds remaining on Friday, preserving a 19-17 victory for Kansas City and giving the franchise its 10th consecutive playoff berth.The Raiders (2-10) had taken over at their own 8-yard line with just under two minutes to go, and Aidan O'Connell quickly moved them across midfield, eventually spiking the ball at the Kansas City 32 to stop the clock.Rather than try a potential winning field goal — Daniel Carlson had already missed three from 50-plus — the Raiders lined up to run a play. Andre James snapped the ball when O'Connell wasn't expecting it and it bounced off the quarterback's shoulder. Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton jumped on the ball, and the recovery stood when a flag on the play turned out to be an illegal shift by the Raiders.It was the 14th consecutive game decided by one possession that Kansas City (11-1) has won.The Raiders had a chance earlier in the fourth quarter, and O'Connell similarly drove them across midfield. But the Chiefs forced three straight incomplete passes — George Karlaftis and Justin Reid batted down two — to bring up fourth down. Carlson headed onto the field, but his 58-yard try with 2:21 never got near the uprights.Patrick Mahomes had 306 yards passing and a TD for Kansas City, while fill-in kicker Matt Wright made four field goals.O'Connell finished with 340 yards passing and two touchdowns for the Raiders, who have lost eight of nine to their bitter AFC West rivals. Brock Bowers had 10 catches for 140 yards and one of the scores.The hapless Raiders were able to hang around thanks to the same problems that have plagued the Chiefs much of the season: Their offensive tackles were unable to give Mahomes time to throw, their secondary kept breaking down and they committed too many penalties — three on one offensive possession alone.In fact, Mahomes was under extreme duress when he found Justin Watson from 6 yards out late in the first half. The pass not only gave the Chiefs a 10-3 lead but sent the two-time MVP past Len Dawson with his franchise-record 328th TD throw.O'Connell, who was thrust back onto the field when Gardner Minshew went on injured reserve with a broken collarbone this week, got off to a slow start after missing a month with a broken thumb. But while the Chiefs continued to kick field goals, the second-year pro found his rhythm for the Raiders, eventually slinging a pair of TD passes to give Las Vegas the lead.The first was to Bowers, already one of the most productive rookies in NFL history, with 1:40 left in the third quarter. Then, after the Chiefs went three-and-out, O'Connell hit Tre Tucker with 58-yard strike on the first play of the fourth quarter.The Chiefs answered with Wright's fourth field goal to take a 19-17 lead with about 10 minutes to go.<h2>Stats and streaks</h2>Chris Jones had two sacks for Kansas City. He had not had one the previous seven games. ... Las Vegas has trailed by double digits in every game this season. ... Mahomes had gone 113 straight starts without being sacked five-plus times. Carolina and Las Vegas have done it in consecutive weeks.<h2>Injuries</h2>Raiders: WR DJ Turner left in the second half with a knee injury.<h2>Up Next</h2>The Raiders visit Tampa Bay on Dec. 8.

🏈 Chiefs clinch playoff berth with victory over the Raiders

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Dajuan Harris scored 14 points and top-ranked Kansas withstood&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-hunter-dickinson-ejected-duke-9e63ed1f2d4358893f114f38e1242d74">the ejection of star center Hunter Dickinson</a>&nbsp;to beat No. 11 Duke 75-72 in the Vegas Showdown on Tuesday night.

Dickinson, who entered the game averaging 17.8 points and 10.4 rebounds, received a fragrant-2 foul and was ejected for kicking the Blue Devils’ Maliq Brown in the head midway through the second half.

Highly touted Duke freshman Cooper Flagg took advantage of Dickinson's absence, and the Blue Devils kept it close all the way to the buzzer.

Zeke Mayo added 12 points for Kansas (6-0), and Dickinson and AJ Storr each scored 11.

Tyrese Proctor led Duke (4-2) with 15 points, Flagg scored 13, Kon Knueppel had 11 and Sion James finished with 10.

Mayo put Kansas ahead for good when he made a jumper with 1:57 left for a 73-71 lead. Flagg hit a free throw for Duke and Rylan Griffen answered with two foul shots with 2 seconds left.

Kansas has won four of the past five meetings with the Blue Devils and six of eight. Nine of the past 10 meetings have been decided by single digits.

Kansas: Overcoming the loss of Dickinson could serve the Jayhawks well later in the season.

Kansas center Hunter Dickinson was ejected midway through the second half of the top-ranked Jayhawks'&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-duke-basketball-score-19ef64a030f58f6ed7428470c54f9b48?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">75-72 victory</a>&nbsp;over No. 11 Duke on Tuesday night for kicking the Blue Devils' Maliq Brown in the head.

Brown was assessed a personal foul for backing into Dickinson while both were going for a rebound. Dickinson was given a flagrant-2&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/espn/status/1861619396990406694">for the kick</a>, leading to the ejection. He initially remained in the bench area with his teammates before being escorted off the floor.

“I didn't think at the moment and nor now do I feel it a warranted a level-2,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “In my opinion, it's probably a coin flip whether it's a level-1 or a level-2.”

Self said the officials told him they made that decision because they believed the kick was intentional and that Brown's head hit the floor.

“It's probably fairly broadly accurate,” Self said.

Duke coach Jon Scheyer said the officials made the right decision.

“I saw on the screen that he kicked him in his face, so I think that warrants a flagrant-2,” Scheyer said. “I haven't had a good look or anything more, but that to me was really an easy one.”

Dickinson entered the game averaging 17.8 points and 10.4 rebounds, so his loss could've been the game-changer. Kansas led 57-55 at the time, but Flory Bidunga filled in and finished with six points and eight rebounds.

“Obviously, it's a bummer that an All-American like Hunter had to go out,” Kansas forward KJ Adams said. “But it makes me happy that Flo got a chance to show the world what he can do. It's amazing what he did out there, especially a freshman coming in in that big environment, a huge game. He did really good.”

Duke: Flagg had six points when Dickinson went out, but then on four trips to the lane had two dunks, a layup and a free throw.

Knueppel had a 3-point try rim out at the buzzer that would have forced overtime.

Duke shot 50% from the field and 42.3% from 3-point range. Kansas shot 49.1% overall and 47.1% from 3.

Kansas hosts Furman on Saturday. Duke is home against Seattle on Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732680267229.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — Dajuan Harris scored 14 points and top-ranked Kansas withstood&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-hunter-dickinson-ejected-duke-9e63ed1f2d4358893f114f38e1242d74">the ejection of star center Hunter Dickinson</a>&nbsp;to beat No. 11 Duke 75-72 in the Vegas Showdown on Tuesday night.Dickinson, who entered the game averaging 17.8 points and 10.4 rebounds, received a fragrant-2 foul and was ejected for kicking the Blue Devils’ Maliq Brown in the head midway through the second half.Highly touted Duke freshman Cooper Flagg took advantage of Dickinson's absence, and the Blue Devils kept it close all the way to the buzzer.Zeke Mayo added 12 points for Kansas (6-0), and Dickinson and AJ Storr each scored 11.Tyrese Proctor led Duke (4-2) with 15 points, Flagg scored 13, Kon Knueppel had 11 and Sion James finished with 10.Mayo put Kansas ahead for good when he made a jumper with 1:57 left for a 73-71 lead. Flagg hit a free throw for Duke and Rylan Griffen answered with two foul shots with 2 seconds left.Kansas has won four of the past five meetings with the Blue Devils and six of eight. Nine of the past 10 meetings have been decided by single digits.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: Overcoming the loss of Dickinson could serve the Jayhawks well later in the season.Kansas center Hunter Dickinson was ejected midway through the second half of the top-ranked Jayhawks'&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-duke-basketball-score-19ef64a030f58f6ed7428470c54f9b48?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">75-72 victory</a>&nbsp;over No. 11 Duke on Tuesday night for kicking the Blue Devils' Maliq Brown in the head.Brown was assessed a personal foul for backing into Dickinson while both were going for a rebound. Dickinson was given a flagrant-2&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/espn/status/1861619396990406694">for the kick</a>, leading to the ejection. He initially remained in the bench area with his teammates before being escorted off the floor.“I didn't think at the moment and nor now do I feel it a warranted a level-2,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “In my opinion, it's probably a coin flip whether it's a level-1 or a level-2.”Self said the officials told him they made that decision because they believed the kick was intentional and that Brown's head hit the floor.“It's probably fairly broadly accurate,” Self said.Duke coach Jon Scheyer said the officials made the right decision.“I saw on the screen that he kicked him in his face, so I think that warrants a flagrant-2,” Scheyer said. “I haven't had a good look or anything more, but that to me was really an easy one.”Dickinson entered the game averaging 17.8 points and 10.4 rebounds, so his loss could've been the game-changer. Kansas led 57-55 at the time, but Flory Bidunga filled in and finished with six points and eight rebounds.“Obviously, it's a bummer that an All-American like Hunter had to go out,” Kansas forward KJ Adams said. “But it makes me happy that Flo got a chance to show the world what he can do. It's amazing what he did out there, especially a freshman coming in in that big environment, a huge game. He did really good.”Duke: Flagg had six points when Dickinson went out, but then on four trips to the lane had two dunks, a layup and a free throw.<h2>Key moment</h2>Knueppel had a 3-point try rim out at the buzzer that would have forced overtime.<h2>Key stat</h2>Duke shot 50% from the field and 42.3% from 3-point range. Kansas shot 49.1% overall and 47.1% from 3.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas hosts Furman on Saturday. Duke is home against Seattle on Friday.___

🏀 No. 1 KU holds off Duke after Dickinson ejected in the Vegas Showdown

ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — Coleman Hawkins totaled 19 points, 10 rebounds and five assists to lead Kansas State to an 80-64 victory over Longwood in the third-place game of the Paradise Jam on Monday night.

Hawkins, who transferred in after four seasons at Illinois, made 7 of 10 shots with five 3-pointers on the way to his first double-double with the Wildcats (5-2).

Brendan Hausen sank three 3-pointers and scored 16 for K-State. Dug McDaniel pitched in with 11 points, six assists and four steals. David N'Guessan had 10 points on 5-for-7 shooting. He is the only Wildcat to score in double figures in all seven games this season.

Kyrell Luc made 5 of 8 shots and 5 of 6 free throws, scoring 15 to lead the Lancers (6-2). Colby Garland had 13 points on 5-for-15 shooting. Johan Nziemi hit 4 of 5 shots and scored 11. Angelo Brizzi had nine points and a team-high-tying five rebounds off the bench.

Hausen and Hawkins both had 11 points by halftime and McDaniel scored nine to send the Wildcats into the locker room up 44-36.

Macaleab Rich scored all eight of his points after the break on 4-for-5 shooting as K-State played with the lead for 33:13.

This is K-State's third trip to the event. The Wildcats beat Eastern Kentucky and Penn before topping Missouri 82-67 in the 2018 championship game. They first appeared in 2002.

It was the first meeting between the Wildcats and last season's Big South Conference champions.

Kansas State returns home to play Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Sunday. Longwood will host Regent on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732581659482.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — Coleman Hawkins totaled 19 points, 10 rebounds and five assists to lead Kansas State to an 80-64 victory over Longwood in the third-place game of the Paradise Jam on Monday night.Hawkins, who transferred in after four seasons at Illinois, made 7 of 10 shots with five 3-pointers on the way to his first double-double with the Wildcats (5-2).Brendan Hausen sank three 3-pointers and scored 16 for K-State. Dug McDaniel pitched in with 11 points, six assists and four steals. David N'Guessan had 10 points on 5-for-7 shooting. He is the only Wildcat to score in double figures in all seven games this season.Kyrell Luc made 5 of 8 shots and 5 of 6 free throws, scoring 15 to lead the Lancers (6-2). Colby Garland had 13 points on 5-for-15 shooting. Johan Nziemi hit 4 of 5 shots and scored 11. Angelo Brizzi had nine points and a team-high-tying five rebounds off the bench.Hausen and Hawkins both had 11 points by halftime and McDaniel scored nine to send the Wildcats into the locker room up 44-36.Macaleab Rich scored all eight of his points after the break on 4-for-5 shooting as K-State played with the lead for 33:13.This is K-State's third trip to the event. The Wildcats beat Eastern Kentucky and Penn before topping Missouri 82-67 in the 2018 championship game. They first appeared in 2002.It was the first meeting between the Wildcats and last season's Big South Conference champions.Kansas State returns home to play Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Sunday. Longwood will host Regent on Sunday.

🏀 Hawkins leads K-State over Longwood for 3rd place at Paradise Jam

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23790&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach&nbsp;Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-november-25-2024/4927">Listen to Coach&nbsp;Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-november-25-2024/4928">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris&nbsp;Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview the regular-season finale at Iowa State on Saturday inside Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa. Links to video and audio of&nbsp;Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of&nbsp;Klieman’s opening statement is below.

“Good afternoon, everyone. It is hard to believe that we are at game 12 and the last regular season game. I am really excited about this week. We get the opportunity to go to Iowa State, and it’s going to be a great environment and great atmosphere. 

The game has meaning. I thought that going back and looking at the film, I thought our guys played very well on Saturday in all phases. Getting off to a fast start was important. I thought we dominated the defensive line against their offensive line up front to be able to shut down the run. Then I thought our offense played really well. I thought we played really well in the o-line. We blocked really well at wide receiver and tight end, and then we are able to rush the football with great success with our running backs and with the quarterback, which opens up a lot of things. 

The other thing is we didn’t turn the football over, which is huge. We were able to get one big turnover for those guys, then we were 2-for-2 on fourth down with two really good calls by Coach (Conor) Riley and some kids made some plays, and they were 0-for-5 on fourth down in critical times. So, that’s another five turnovers that were impactful. So I’m excited. We had really good energy, good focus, but now we've got to put it together and go to Ames.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23790&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach&nbsp;Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-november-25-2024/4927">Listen to Coach&nbsp;Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-november-25-2024/4928">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris&nbsp;Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview the regular-season finale at Iowa State on Saturday inside Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa. Links to video and audio of&nbsp;Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of&nbsp;Klieman’s opening statement is below.CHRIS&nbsp;KLIEMAN, HEAD COACHOpening Statement…“Good afternoon, everyone. It is hard to believe that we are at game 12 and the last regular season game. I am really excited about this week. We get the opportunity to go to Iowa State, and it’s going to be a great environment and great atmosphere. The game has meaning. I thought that going back and looking at the film, I thought our guys played very well on Saturday in all phases. Getting off to a fast start was important. I thought we dominated the defensive line against their offensive line up front to be able to shut down the run. Then I thought our offense played really well. I thought we played really well in the o-line. We blocked really well at wide receiver and tight end, and then we are able to rush the football with great success with our running backs and with the quarterback, which opens up a lot of things. The other thing is we didn’t turn the football over, which is huge. We were able to get one big turnover for those guys, then we were 2-for-2 on fourth down with two really good calls by Coach (Conor) Riley and some kids made some plays, and they were 0-for-5 on fourth down in critical times. So, that’s another five turnovers that were impactful. So I’m excited. We had really good energy, good focus, but now we've got to put it together and go to Ames.”

K-State Discusses Final Regular Season Game at Weekly Press Conference   

SAINT THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — Colin Porter scored 17 points, Isaiah Ihnen added 16 on 7-of-12 shooting Sunday night and Liberty held off Kansas State for a 69-67 win in the semifinals of the Paradise Jam.

Kaden Metheny scored 13 points for the Flames. Zach Cleveland scored two points on 0-of-8 shooting but finished with nine rebounds and eight assists.

Brendan Hausen hit a jumper and Achor Achor scored in the paint to give Kansas State (4-2) a 63-62 lead with 2:31 to play. Porter answered with a 3-pointer 16 seconds later and Liberty led the rest of the way.

Owen Aquino hit two free throws to give the Flames a four-point lead with 50 seconds remaining and Coleman Hawkins scored in the lane to cut it to 67-65 just eight seconds later. After Metheny missed a layup on the other end, Dug McDaniel missed a clean look at a 3-point shot from the left wing, David N’Guessan missed a putback attempt and McDaniel missed a heave from 3-point range at the buzzer.

Hausen scored 14 points and Hawkins added 11 for Kansas State. N’Guessan and Achor scored 10 points apiece.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732499475827.png" alt="Photo -K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo -K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>SAINT THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — Colin Porter scored 17 points, Isaiah Ihnen added 16 on 7-of-12 shooting Sunday night and Liberty held off Kansas State for a 69-67 win in the semifinals of the Paradise Jam.Kaden Metheny scored 13 points for the Flames. Zach Cleveland scored two points on 0-of-8 shooting but finished with nine rebounds and eight assists.Brendan Hausen hit a jumper and Achor Achor scored in the paint to give Kansas State (4-2) a 63-62 lead with 2:31 to play. Porter answered with a 3-pointer 16 seconds later and Liberty led the rest of the way.Owen Aquino hit two free throws to give the Flames a four-point lead with 50 seconds remaining and Coleman Hawkins scored in the lane to cut it to 67-65 just eight seconds later. After Metheny missed a layup on the other end, Dug McDaniel missed a clean look at a 3-point shot from the left wing, David N’Guessan missed a putback attempt and McDaniel missed a heave from 3-point range at the buzzer.Hausen scored 14 points and Hawkins added 11 for Kansas State. N’Guessan and Achor scored 10 points apiece.

🏀 Porter scores 17 to help Liberty beat K-State in Paradise Jam semis

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 269 yards and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1860779368617824699">three touchdowns</a>, Spencer Shrader kicked a 31-yard field goal as time expired and the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Carolina Panthers 30-27 on Sunday to reach double-digit wins for the 10th straight season.

Noah Gray caught two TD passes as the Chiefs (10-1) bounced back from last week’s 30-21 loss at Buffalo and won at the buzzer yet again in a season of narrow escapes.&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1860779327538733210">DeAndre Hopkins also had a touchdown catch</a>&nbsp;for the two-time defending Super Bowl champions, who scored on their first five possessions.

Bryce Young finished 21 of 35 for 262 yards and a touchdown for the Panthers (3-8), who had their two-game winning streak snapped. David Moore had six receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown.

Trailing 27-19, Young completed a fourth-down pass to Adam Thielen to move the chains, then went deep for the veteran receiver, who drew a pass-interference penalty on Chamarri Conner. That set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Chuba Hubbard.

Young's initial 2-point conversion toss to Moore drew a flag on Trent McDuffie, and Hubbard ran for 2 on the next play to tie the game with 1:46 left.

Mahomes ran for 33 yards on the ensuing drive and was sprung by a downfield block from Justin Watson to reach field goal range. Then he connected with Kareem Hunt for 10 yards to make it a chip shot for Shrader. Mahomes finished with 60 yards rushing.

The Chiefs wasted no time setting the tone as Samaje Perine returned the opening kickoff 56 yards and Mahomes found&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1860746775801307357">Gray for a 35-yard touchdown strike</a>&nbsp;on the third play of scrimmage for a 7-0 lead. Gray went nine games without a TD catch before hauling in two last week against Buffalo. His 11-yard score late in the second quarter gave him&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1860764959220601320">two more against the Panthers</a>.

The Panthers moved the ball well but struggled in the red zone, resulting in field goals of 30, 32, 29 and 33 yards for Eddy Pineiro, the most accurate kicker in NFL history.

Running back Jonathan Brooks made his NFL debut for Carolina, but was limited to 7 yards on two carries.

Eight of the Chiefs' wins have come by a one-score margin, and this was their second straight victory decided on the last play. They beat Denver two weeks ago by blocking a would-be game-winning field goal.

Kansas City's Travis Kelce had six catches for 62 yards and moved into third place in career yards receiving by a tight end. He ranks behind only Tony Gonzalez and Jason Witten. However, Kelce failed to find the end zone for the ninth time in 11 games this season.

Panthers: Rookie TE Ja'Tavion Sanders was taken to the hospital with a neck injury after landing awkwardly on his head after making a catch near the end of the second quarter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732482979441.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 269 yards and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1860779368617824699">three touchdowns</a>, Spencer Shrader kicked a 31-yard field goal as time expired and the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Carolina Panthers 30-27 on Sunday to reach double-digit wins for the 10th straight season.Noah Gray caught two TD passes as the Chiefs (10-1) bounced back from last week’s 30-21 loss at Buffalo and won at the buzzer yet again in a season of narrow escapes.&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1860779327538733210">DeAndre Hopkins also had a touchdown catch</a>&nbsp;for the two-time defending Super Bowl champions, who scored on their first five possessions.Bryce Young finished 21 of 35 for 262 yards and a touchdown for the Panthers (3-8), who had their two-game winning streak snapped. David Moore had six receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown.Trailing 27-19, Young completed a fourth-down pass to Adam Thielen to move the chains, then went deep for the veteran receiver, who drew a pass-interference penalty on Chamarri Conner. That set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Chuba Hubbard.Young's initial 2-point conversion toss to Moore drew a flag on Trent McDuffie, and Hubbard ran for 2 on the next play to tie the game with 1:46 left.Mahomes ran for 33 yards on the ensuing drive and was sprung by a downfield block from Justin Watson to reach field goal range. Then he connected with Kareem Hunt for 10 yards to make it a chip shot for Shrader. Mahomes finished with 60 yards rushing.The Chiefs wasted no time setting the tone as Samaje Perine returned the opening kickoff 56 yards and Mahomes found&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1860746775801307357">Gray for a 35-yard touchdown strike</a>&nbsp;on the third play of scrimmage for a 7-0 lead. Gray went nine games without a TD catch before hauling in two last week against Buffalo. His 11-yard score late in the second quarter gave him&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1860764959220601320">two more against the Panthers</a>.The Panthers moved the ball well but struggled in the red zone, resulting in field goals of 30, 32, 29 and 33 yards for Eddy Pineiro, the most accurate kicker in NFL history.Running back Jonathan Brooks made his NFL debut for Carolina, but was limited to 7 yards on two carries.Eight of the Chiefs' wins have come by a one-score margin, and this was their second straight victory decided on the last play. They beat Denver two weeks ago by blocking a would-be game-winning field goal.<h2>Moving on up</h2>Kansas City's Travis Kelce had six catches for 62 yards and moved into third place in career yards receiving by a tight end. He ranks behind only Tony Gonzalez and Jason Witten. However, Kelce failed to find the end zone for the ninth time in 11 games this season.<h2>Injuries</h2>Panthers: Rookie TE Ja'Tavion Sanders was taken to the hospital with a neck injury after landing awkwardly on his head after making a catch near the end of the second quarter.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: Host Las Vegas on Friday.Panthers: Host Tampa Bay next Sunday.

🏈 Chiefs top Panthers on Shrader's field goal as time expired

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — DJ Giddens rushed for 143 yards, on just 15 carries, with two touchdowns, as Kansas State defeated Cincinnati 41-15 Saturday night.

Kansas State (8-3, 5-3 Big 12) snapped a two-game losing streak with the victory.

“It was an inspired win by our guys,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “I'm proud of the whole team, proud of our seniors for responding to the adversity that we’ve had.

"We knew we needed to start fast, and we did start fast. Our defense really made them one-dimensional early on, and then we did some really good things.”

Cincinnati (5-6, 3-5 Big 12) lost its fourth straight game. The Bearcats need a home win against TCU next Saturday to achieve bowl eligibility.

Avery Johnson was 13-of-23 passing for 147 yards and two touchdowns for KSU. With running back Dylan Edwards out with an undisclosed injury, Johnson also ran the ball 10 times for 81 yards and a score.

“(The coaches) definitely said it was going to be a heavier QB-run game this week,” Johnson said about the extra workload. “And you know, that’s one of the strongest suits of my game. I was just running behind my pads, kind of fitting up in some gaps when I needed to and just trying my best to follow those guys' blocks.”

Klieman was especially proud of his defense in the clutch.

“Cincinnati was 3 of 12 third down, 0 of 5 on fourth down," he said. "That was a big-time effort on fourth down especially, because there’s a handful of those that were in critical situations and those weren’t fourth-and-10 or fourth-and-12. Those were fourth-and-short to fourth-and-medium.”

Brendan Sorsby was 21 of 39 for 200 yards and two touchdowns for the Bearcats.

Trailing by 24 points, Cincinnati found the end zone on a 9-yard touchdown pass from Sorsby to Tony Johnson late in the third quarter. The 2-point conversion failed. Giddens had his second rushing touchdown on K-State's next drive.

Johnson's 8-yard touchdown pass to Will Swanson put K-State up 41-9. Sorsby then found Johnson for a 6-yard touchdown.

“We were contemplating between two plays, and (offensive coordinator Conor Riley) asked me what I wanted,” Johnson said. “And I (chose) the play we ended up calling. Riles kind of looked at me a little bit funny, and then we called it. We had two guys wide open because they didn’t know how to cover it. It was just all smiles on the sideline.”

Kansas State wasted little time grabbing a 7-0 lead on its opening drive on a 21-yard touchdown run by Johnson. That capped a five-play, 65-yard drive.

The Wildcats extended the lead to 10-0 on a 28-yard Chris Tennant field goal, and then to 13-0 on his 32-yarder.

After K-State held Cincinnati on fourth-and-8 at the KSU 33, Giddens pushed the Wildcats' lead to 20-0 when he used a spin move at the line of scrimmage and then raced 32 yards for a touchdown, capping a four-play drive.

Cincinnati got on the scoreboard with 4:17 left in the first half with a 42-yard field goal by Nathan Hawks.

Brendan Mott then intercepted a Sorsby pass at the Cincinnati 22-yard line and returned it to the 6. It was Mott's first career interception in his last home game.

“Unfortunately, I couldn’t finish it off and get the 6 points,” Mott said. “When I got to the sideline, I don't know if I got more ‘Congratulations’ or, ‘Man, you should have housed that thing.’”

Two plays later, Johnson found Tre Spivey for a 6-yard touchdown and the Wildcats led 27-3 at halftime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732419487269.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — DJ Giddens rushed for 143 yards, on just 15 carries, with two touchdowns, as Kansas State defeated Cincinnati 41-15 Saturday night.Kansas State (8-3, 5-3 Big 12) snapped a two-game losing streak with the victory.“It was an inspired win by our guys,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “I'm proud of the whole team, proud of our seniors for responding to the adversity that we’ve had."We knew we needed to start fast, and we did start fast. Our defense really made them one-dimensional early on, and then we did some really good things.”Cincinnati (5-6, 3-5 Big 12) lost its fourth straight game. The Bearcats need a home win against TCU next Saturday to achieve bowl eligibility.Avery Johnson was 13-of-23 passing for 147 yards and two touchdowns for KSU. With running back Dylan Edwards out with an undisclosed injury, Johnson also ran the ball 10 times for 81 yards and a score.“(The coaches) definitely said it was going to be a heavier QB-run game this week,” Johnson said about the extra workload. “And you know, that’s one of the strongest suits of my game. I was just running behind my pads, kind of fitting up in some gaps when I needed to and just trying my best to follow those guys' blocks.”Klieman was especially proud of his defense in the clutch.“Cincinnati was 3 of 12 third down, 0 of 5 on fourth down," he said. "That was a big-time effort on fourth down especially, because there’s a handful of those that were in critical situations and those weren’t fourth-and-10 or fourth-and-12. Those were fourth-and-short to fourth-and-medium.”Brendan Sorsby was 21 of 39 for 200 yards and two touchdowns for the Bearcats.Trailing by 24 points, Cincinnati found the end zone on a 9-yard touchdown pass from Sorsby to Tony Johnson late in the third quarter. The 2-point conversion failed. Giddens had his second rushing touchdown on K-State's next drive.Johnson's 8-yard touchdown pass to Will Swanson put K-State up 41-9. Sorsby then found Johnson for a 6-yard touchdown.“We were contemplating between two plays, and (offensive coordinator Conor Riley) asked me what I wanted,” Johnson said. “And I (chose) the play we ended up calling. Riles kind of looked at me a little bit funny, and then we called it. We had two guys wide open because they didn’t know how to cover it. It was just all smiles on the sideline.”Kansas State wasted little time grabbing a 7-0 lead on its opening drive on a 21-yard touchdown run by Johnson. That capped a five-play, 65-yard drive.The Wildcats extended the lead to 10-0 on a 28-yard Chris Tennant field goal, and then to 13-0 on his 32-yarder.After K-State held Cincinnati on fourth-and-8 at the KSU 33, Giddens pushed the Wildcats' lead to 20-0 when he used a spin move at the line of scrimmage and then raced 32 yards for a touchdown, capping a four-play drive.Cincinnati got on the scoreboard with 4:17 left in the first half with a 42-yard field goal by Nathan Hawks.Brendan Mott then intercepted a Sorsby pass at the Cincinnati 22-yard line and returned it to the 6. It was Mott's first career interception in his last home game.“Unfortunately, I couldn’t finish it off and get the 6 points,” Mott said. “When I got to the sideline, I don't know if I got more ‘Congratulations’ or, ‘Man, you should have housed that thing.’”Two plays later, Johnson found Tre Spivey for a 6-yard touchdown and the Wildcats led 27-3 at halftime.THE TAKEAWAYCincinnati: The Bearcats struggled to convert at crucial times. They were just 3 of 12 on third-down conversions and 0 for 5 when going for it on fourth down.Kansas State: The score may have been lopsided in Kansas State's favor, but the Wildcats were not dominant. They out-gained Cincinnati by just 54 total yards.UP NEXT

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