Wednesday, December 8 -&nbsp; 8:05 p.m. CT - Bramlage Coliseum&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fans are encouraged to wear lavender attire to match the Wildcats’ all-lavender uniforms, which date back to the school’s two-tone lavender uniforms wore from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s by teams coached by legendary head coach Jack Hartman.

<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>

Big Game Mini-Plan: $199 (Marquette is the first of 5 games in the mini plan package)

Bramlage Bundle: $35 (Bundles include a reserve Cat Cushion ticket, a $10 concession voucher and a $10 credit to the K-State Super Store)

In BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle: Marquette leads 1-0 [2019]

Last Meeting: L, 65-73 [12/7/2019 in Manhattan, Kan.]

K-STATE HOSTS MARQUETTE IN BIG EAST/BIG 12 BATTLE

Wednesday, December 8 -&nbsp; 8:05 p.m. CT - Bramlage Coliseum&nbsp;&nbsp;PROMOTIONColor Rush GameFans are encouraged to wear lavender attire to match the Wildcats’ all-lavender uniforms, which date back to the school’s two-tone lavender uniforms wore from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s by teams coached by legendary head coach Jack Hartman.TELEVISIONESPN2 / WatchESPNTICKETS<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>(800) 221.CATS [2287]Single Game: $15, $20, $35Big Game Mini-Plan: $199 (Marquette is the first of 5 games in the mini plan package)Bramlage Bundle: $35 (Bundles include a reserve Cat Cushion ticket, a $10 concession voucher and a $10 credit to the K-State Super Store)SERIES HISTORYOverall: K-State leads 7-5Current Streak: Marquette, 2In Manhattan: K-State leads 3-1In BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle: Marquette leads 1-0 [2019]Last Meeting: L, 65-73 [12/7/2019 in Manhattan, Kan.]Weber vs. Smart: 5-7 [2-4 at home]PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPKansas State (5-2)G: #00 Mike McGuirlG: #1 Markquis NowellG: #13 Mark SmithF: #25 Ismael [Ish] MassoudF: #20 Kaosi EzeaguMarquette (7-2)G: #1 Kam JonesG: #10 Justin LewisG: #22 Tyler KolekG: #32 Darryl MorsellF: #35 Kur KuathK-STATE HOSTS MARQUETTE IN BIG EAST/BIG 12 BATTLE<ul>
 <li>Kansas State (5-2) begins another 2-game homestand on Wednesday night, as the Wildcats play host to Marquette (7-2) in the third annual BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle at Bramlage Coliseum. The game will air nationally on ESPN2 at 8:05 p.m. CT. K-State concludes the homestand on Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m., CT against Green Bay (2-6).</li><li>Wednesday’s matchup will mark just the second time that K-State has competed in the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle with last year’s contest with Butler being cancelled due to COVID-19 protocols with the Bulldogs. The Golden Eagles defeated the Wildcats, 73-65, in the inaugural matchup in the Battle series on Dec. 7, 2019. Currently, the leagues are tied 2-2.</li><li>K-State has won 7 straight at Bramlage Coliseum against non-conference opponents dating back to last season, including wins this season over Florida A&amp;M (67-57), Omaha (79-64), North Dakota (84-42) and UAlbany (71-43).</li>
 </ul>OPENING TIP<ul>
 <li>Wednesday’s contest is being dubbed a “Color Rush” Game, as fans are encouraged to wear lavender attire to match the Wildcats’ all-lavender uniforms, which date back to the school’s two-tone lavender uniforms worn from the mid-1970s to early 1980s by teams coached by legendary head coach Jack Hartman. The Golden Eagles are expected to wear one of their alternate uniforms.</li>
 </ul>

K-State hosts Marquette Wednesday evening

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ochai Agbaji scored 23 points, Christian Braun added 20 and eighth-ranked Kansas tuned up for this weekend’s return of the Border War with a 78-52 blowout of UTEP on Tuesday night. David McCormack and Mitch Lightfoot added eight points apiece for the Jayhawks (7-1), who led by 21 at halftime and weren't threatened the rest of the way. Souley Boom had 18 points and Keonte Kennedy 11 for UTEP (4-4). Now, the Jayhawks turn their attention to Saturday’s showdown with Missouri. The bitter rivals haven't played a regular-season game since the Tigers bolted for the SEC nearly a decade ago.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ochai Agbaji scored 23 points, Christian Braun added 20 and eighth-ranked Kansas tuned up for this weekend’s return of the Border War with a 78-52 blowout of UTEP on Tuesday night. David McCormack and Mitch Lightfoot added eight points apiece for the Jayhawks (7-1), who led by 21 at halftime and weren't threatened the rest of the way. Souley Boom had 18 points and Keonte Kennedy 11 for UTEP (4-4). Now, the Jayhawks turn their attention to Saturday’s showdown with Missouri. The bitter rivals haven't played a regular-season game since the Tigers bolted for the SEC nearly a decade ago.

Jayhawks cruise past UTEP

Flint Hills Christian 52, Newton Christian 43

Kapaun Mount Carmel 45, Wichita Heights 43

Marais des Cygnes Valley 59, Peabody-Burns 55

Topeka Heritage Christian 50, Central Heights 42

Wichita South 67, Wichita Bishop Carroll 37

Medicine Valley, Neb. 74, Oberlin-Decatur 15

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Andover 55, Wichita Campus 30Andover Central 42, Maize South 37BV North 81, KC Harmon 40BV Southwest 60, Barstow, Mo. 38Baxter Springs 49, Quapaw, Okla. 13Beloit 59, Clay Center 52Blue Valley 76, KC Sumner 59Buhler 57, Salina South 47Chanute 57, Caney Valley 51Cheney 76, Wellington 30Clifton-Clyde 82, Rock Hills 13Columbus 65, Southeast 54Concordia 50, Republic County 35Council Grove 63, Silver Lake 46Elkhart 60, McClave, Colo. 50Ell-Saline 49, Minneapolis 43Erie 54, Crest 22Flint Hills Christian 52, Newton Christian 43Frontenac 69, Riverton 49Goessel 39, Little River 38Granada, Colo. 64, Syracuse 46Greeley County 75, Eads, Colo. 34Hanover 63, Centralia 41Hesston 53, Nickerson 18Hiawatha 70, Troy 47Highland Park 60, Topeka Hayden 51, OTHillsboro 65, Inman 37Hoisington 77, Bucklin 64Humboldt 53, Uniontown 28Junction City 80, Topeka 53Kapaun Mount Carmel 45, Wichita Heights 43Linn 54, Wakefield 27Louisburg 52, Burlington 51Madison/Hamilton Co-op 58, Oswego 26Maize 51, Hutchinson 48Manhattan CHIEF 71, Northern Heights 56Marais des Cygnes Valley 59, Peabody-Burns 55Marysville 66, Valley Heights 26McPherson 68, Newton 64, OTMedicine Lodge 62, Kiowa County 49Onaga 50, Washington County 35Osborne 51, Lakeside 40Paola 47, Wellsville 43Pawnee Heights 47, Dighton 45Perry-Lecompton 55, Fort Scott 47Phillipsburg 43, Ulysses 40Pittsburg 55, Nevada, Mo. 27Pleasant Ridge 76, McLouth 37Pleasanton 47, Osawatomie 45Pratt 68, Chaparral 54Riverside 61, Doniphan West 35Rose Hill 64, Garden Plain 28SM South 66, Metro Academy 47Salina Central 64, Goddard-Eisenhower 54Salina Sacred Heart 61, Chapman 48Sedan 62, Bluestem 26Smith Center 60, Central Plains 39Southeast Saline 64, Smoky Valley 51Southwestern Hts. 70, Minneola 49Sublette 62, Cimarron 58Topeka Heritage Christian 50, Central Heights 42Topeka Seaman 69, Wichita West 59Trego 61, Northern Valley 47Triplains-Brewster 65, Golden Plains 33Valley Center 77, Kingman 52Wabaunsee 53, Frankfort 48Washburn Rural 52, Emporia 41Weskan 45, St. Francis 42Wichita Classical 60, Sedgwick 54Wichita South 67, Wichita Bishop Carroll 37Cattle Trail Tournament=Medicine Valley, Neb. 74, Oberlin-Decatur 15

Boys basketball results

Christ Preparatory Academy 44, Cair Paravel 40

Maur Hill - Mount Academy 36, Jefferson North 33

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Andover 47, Wichita Campus 28Andover Central 51, Maize South 37Baldwin 50, Anderson County 19Bennington 49, Solomon 22Blue Valley 53, KC Wyandotte 13Bluestem 46, Sedan 40Bonner Springs 86, KC Harmon 0Central Plains 61, Smith Center 57Centralia 47, Hanover 29Chanute 44, Caney Valley 39Christ Preparatory Academy 44, Cair Paravel 40Cimarron 69, Sublette 21Circle 40, Parsons 33Clay Center 52, Beloit 35Clifton-Clyde 55, Rock Hills 37Columbus 35, Southeast 23Concordia 39, Republic County 34Doniphan West 49, Riverside 43Elkhart 56, McClave, Colo. 48Ell-Saline 48, Minneapolis 46Erie 11, Crest 0Frankfort 44, Wabaunsee 28Frontenac 60, Riverton 21Garden Plain 48, Rose Hill 20Girard 50, Carl Junction, Mo. 48Greeley County 56, Eads, Colo. 27Haven 50, Conway Springs 25Hiawatha 52, Troy 26Hillsboro 57, Inman 35Linn 52, Wakefield 26Little River 50, Goessel 21Louisburg 43, Burlington 31Maize 43, Hutchinson 32Maur Hill - Mount Academy 36, Jefferson North 33McLouth 49, Pleasant Ridge 36Mission Valley 49, Lyndon 24Nickerson 35, Hesston 28Osborne 65, Lakeside 34Paola 55, Wellsville 17Phillipsburg 60, Ulysses 12Pratt 42, Chaparral 33Quinter 67, Natoma 12Salina Sacred Heart 38, Chapman 28Salina South 60, Buhler 50Sedgwick 55, Wichita Classical 25Silver Lake 60, Council Grove 42Smoky Valley 53, Southeast Saline 47St. Francis 71, Logan/Palco 49St. James Academy 62, Liberty, Mo. 46St. John 48, Ellis 16Stanton County 54, Walsh, Colo. 9Sylvan-Lucas 51, Wilson 16Syracuse 57, Granada, Colo. 45Topeka 82, Junction City 24Topeka Hayden 52, Highland Park 38Trego 47, Northern Valley 12Valley Heights 39, Marysville 21Washington County 57, Onaga 29Wellington 55, Cheney 49Wichita Defenders 36, Reno County 30Cattle Trail Tournament=Arapahoe, Neb. 42, Oberlin-Decatur 22

Girls basketball results

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Markquis Nowell scored seven of his 16 points in the final 1:35 and Kansas State used a late surge to defeat Wichita State 65-59 in the renewal of an in-state rivalry. Just after Ricky Council IV knocked down a 3-pointer to tie the game at 52 with 2:02 to play, Nowell answered with a deep 3. Following a Shockers miss, Nowell made two free throws with a minute to go. Nowell’s two free throws made it 64-58 lead with 14 seconds to play. Morris Udeze scored 19 points for Wichita State.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Markquis Nowell scored seven of his 16 points in the final 1:35 and Kansas State used a late surge to defeat Wichita State 65-59 in the renewal of an in-state rivalry. Just after Ricky Council IV knocked down a 3-pointer to tie the game at 52 with 2:02 to play, Nowell answered with a deep 3. Following a Shockers miss, Nowell made two free throws with a minute to go. Nowell’s two free throws made it 64-58 lead with 14 seconds to play. Morris Udeze scored 19 points for Wichita State.

Wildcats defeat the Shockers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The resurgent Kansas City defense shut down Teddy Bridgewater and the Broncos and the Chiefs beat Denver 22-9 on Sunday night for their fifth straight win. Daniel Sorenson returned an interception 75 yards for a touchdown for Kansas City Patrick Mahomes had 184 yards passing with a touchdown run and an interception for the Chiefs, who now lead the Chargers by a game and the Broncos and Raiders by two in their race for a sixth straight AFC West championship. Javonte Williams started in place of the injured Melvin Gordon III and had 102 yards rushing along with a late touchdown catch for the Broncos. They have lost 12 straight to Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The resurgent Kansas City defense shut down Teddy Bridgewater and the Broncos and the Chiefs beat Denver 22-9 on Sunday night for their fifth straight win. Daniel Sorenson returned an interception 75 yards for a touchdown for Kansas City Patrick Mahomes had 184 yards passing with a touchdown run and an interception for the Chiefs, who now lead the Chargers by a game and the Broncos and Raiders by two in their race for a sixth straight AFC West championship. Javonte Williams started in place of the injured Melvin Gordon III and had 102 yards rushing along with a late touchdown catch for the Broncos. They have lost 12 straight to Kansas City.

Chiefs top the Broncos

Cornerstone Family 44, Blue Ridge Christian, Mo. 21

Flint Hills Christian 50, Topeka Heritage Christian 17

Montverde Academy, Fla. 53, Wichita Sunrise 44

Burlingame 72, Waverly 30Cornerstone Family 44, Blue Ridge Christian, Mo. 21Flint Hills Christian 50, Topeka Heritage Christian 17Lawrence 65, Manhattan 55Montverde Academy, Fla. 53, Wichita Sunrise 44Pembroke Hill, Mo. 71, KC Sumner 67Wichita Heights 58, Derby 38Wichita South 49, Goddard-Eisenhower 35Wichita Sunrise 47, Paradise, Texas 42

Saturday boys basketball results

Blue Ridge Christian, Mo. 49, Cornerstone Family 13

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Blue Ridge Christian, Mo. 49, Cornerstone Family 13Derby 53, Wichita Heights 40Hugoton 52, Hays-TMP-Marian 40Lawrence 55, Manhattan 49Wichita Northwest 45, Wichita Campus 43

Saturday girls basketball results

Flint Hills Christian 49, Hutchinson Central Christian 19

Metro Academy 53, Lee's Summit Community Christian, Mo. 43

Wichita Sunrise 64, Oak Hill Academy, Va. 61

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Abilene 68, Smoky Valley 52Anderson County 43, Iola 31Andover Central 80, Wichita East 52Arkansas City 57, Winfield 39Augusta 52, Goddard 43BV North 57, Olathe East 34BV West 70, SM North 56Basehor-Linwood 49, Eudora 40Bennington 55, Sylvan-Lucas 44Berean Academy 36, Udall 32Bucklin 83, Ashland 28Buhler 69, Nickerson 31Canton-Galva 79, Rural Vista 33Cass-Midway, Mo. 53, Jayhawk Linn 47Cheney 68, Conway Springs 41Clay Center 58, Rock Creek 46Clearwater 41, Belle Plaine 26Concordia 74, Beloit 67Council Grove 69, West Franklin 53Dodge City 62, McPherson 58Ellinwood 53, La Crosse 26Flint Hills Christian 49, Hutchinson Central Christian 19Fredonia 63, Neodesha 56, OTFrontenac 58, Nevada, Mo. 56Galena 62, St. Paul 20Garden City 59, Guymon, Okla. 50Girard 66, Parsons 65Goessel 59, Marion 26Goodland 55, Syracuse 30Hays 63, Olathe West 44Hesston 53, Southeast Saline 44Highland Park 79, Emporia 45Hillsboro 48, Sterling 30Hoisington 68, Central Plains 26Holyoke, Colo. 56, St. Francis 31Humboldt 54, Eureka 24Inman 56, Minneapolis 48Joplin, Mo. 64, Pittsburg 36Junction City 80, Topeka Seaman 63KC Piper 73, Ottawa 53Lakeside 50, Tescott 17Liberal 54, Colby 47Logan/Palco 52, Wheatland-Grinnell 49Lyons 38, Ellsworth 24Maize 48, Kapaun Mount Carmel 43Manhattan 67, Topeka 46Meade 66, Pawnee Heights 65Metro Academy 53, Lee's Summit Community Christian, Mo. 43Minneola 54, Cunningham 45Mulvane 57, Wellington 55Nemaha Central 57, Perry-Lecompton 48Northern Valley 84, Wallace County 34Norton 48, Hoxie 35Osborne 66, Southern Cloud 22Otis-Bison 57, Wilson 18Oxford 60, Fairfield 50Phillipsburg 49, Oakley 48Pike Valley 49, Rock Hills 17Pittsburg Colgan 65, Columbus 49Plainville 66, Smith Center 38Pratt 62, Larned 21Pratt Skyline 66, Kiowa County 56Remington 66, Bluestem 47Riley County 54, Valley Heights 25SM South 69, KC Schlagle 11Salina Sacred Heart 65, Ell-Saline 48Salina South 57, Salina Central 35Scott City 55, Ulysses 50Sedgwick 57, Halstead 44South Central 50, Spearville 38St. John's Beloit-Tipton 59, Natoma 56St. Thomas Aquinas 56, Barstow, Mo. 36Stafford 95, St. John 75Sublette 59, Kinsley 39Thunder Ridge 58, Chase 30Tonganoxie 61, Louisburg 48Topeka West 69, Washburn Rural 57Trego 61, Dighton 39Victoria 55, Quinter 54West Elk 64, Oswego 22Wichita County 57, Elkhart 27Wichita Independent 69, Kingman 68Wichita Northwest 54, Wichita Campus 46Wichita Sunrise 64, Oak Hill Academy, Va. 61Wichita Trinity 37, Garden Plain 27

Friday night boys high school basketball results

Christ Preparatory Academy 49, Heartland Christian 46

Hutchinson Central Christian 66, Wichita Classical 15

Anderson County 45, Iola 27BV North 72, Olathe East 53BV West 52, SM North 47Beloit 49, Concordia 14Bennington 39, Sylvan-Lucas 29Bonner Springs 43, Labette County 42Burrton 52, Solomon 14Central Plains 54, Hoisington 34Cheney 71, Conway Springs 18Christ Preparatory Academy 49, Heartland Christian 46Cimarron 49, Holcomb 46Clearwater 63, Belle Plaine 22Dodge City 45, McPherson 33Elkhart 56, Wichita County 39Ell-Saline 40, Salina Sacred Heart 38Ellinwood 55, La Crosse 43Emporia 59, Highland Park 21Eureka 57, Humboldt 23Flint Hills Christian 37, St. Xavier 25Frankfort 57, Pawnee City, Neb. 17Fredonia 44, Neodesha 32Garden Plain 64, Wichita Trinity 27Girard 58, Parsons 53Goddard 46, Augusta 28Goddard-Eisenhower 72, Wichita North 61Goessel 53, Marion 40Golden Plains 48, Weskan 28Goodland 51, Syracuse 19Guymon, Okla. 46, Garden City 40Halstead 31, Sedgwick 28Hodgeman County 69, Deerfield 5Holyoke, Colo. 61, St. Francis 54Hoxie 49, Norton 29Hutchinson Central Christian 66, Wichita Classical 15Jefferson North 50, McLouth 43Kingman 43, Wichita Independent 25Kinsley 49, Sublette 23Lakin 43, Southwestern Hts. 36Lebo 32, Flinthills 26Liberal 57, Colby 14Linn 48, Washington County 40Little River 60, Lincoln 25Louisburg 36, Tonganoxie 27Lyons 51, Ellsworth 40Macksville 51, Ness City 47Maize 55, Kapaun Mount Carmel 35Maize South 44, Wichita East 35Meade 48, Pawnee Heights 28Minneapolis 44, Inman 39Minneola 57, Cunningham 15Moundridge 37, Elyria Christian 26Nickerson 87, Buhler 27Norwich 45, Douglass 40Olathe West 54, Hays-TMP-Marian 28Osborne 83, Southern Cloud 2Otis-Bison 41, Wilson 37Ottawa 45, KC Piper 35Oxford 51, Fairfield 31Paola 58, Baldwin 54Phillipsburg 68, Oakley 43Pratt 51, Larned 33Remington 67, Bluestem 37Rock Hills 40, Pike Valley 37Rural Vista 36, Canton-Galva 23Salina Central 53, Salina South 24Scott City 53, Ulysses 19Smith Center 83, Plainville 10Smoky Valley 55, Abilene 34Southeast Saline 41, Hesston 33St. James Academy 83, KC Wyandotte 13St. John's Beloit-Tipton 55, Natoma 21Sterling 51, Hillsboro 32Thunder Ridge 58, Chase 23Topeka 63, Manhattan 41Trego 35, Dighton 27Washburn Rural 54, Topeka West 14Wellington 57, Mulvane 41West Elk 38, Oswego 23Wheatland-Grinnell 63, Logan/Palco 43Winfield 44, Arkansas City 37POSTPONEMENTS AND CANCELLATIONS=Lakeside vs. Tescott, ppd.

Friday night girls basketball scores

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State head football coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Friday that offensive coordinator/wide receivers coach Courtney Messingham and fullbacks/tight ends coach Jason Ray will not return for the 2022 season.

“We appreciate the efforts of Courtney and Jason during their time in Manhattan and wish them well in the future,” Klieman said. “These were very difficult decisions to make as both are great coaches and friends – Jason since our time at North Dakota State, and Courtney, who I have known since we were young. However, I feel like this is in the best interest of our program moving forward.”

Quarterbacks coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;will serve as the interim offensive coordinator for the Wildcats’ upcoming bowl game.

Kansas State will learn of its bowl destination on Sunday.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State head football coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Friday that offensive coordinator/wide receivers coach Courtney Messingham and fullbacks/tight ends coach Jason Ray will not return for the 2022 season.“We appreciate the efforts of Courtney and Jason during their time in Manhattan and wish them well in the future,” Klieman said. “These were very difficult decisions to make as both are great coaches and friends – Jason since our time at North Dakota State, and Courtney, who I have known since we were young. However, I feel like this is in the best interest of our program moving forward.”Quarterbacks coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;will serve as the interim offensive coordinator for the Wildcats’ upcoming bowl game.Kansas State will learn of its bowl destination on Sunday.

Two coaching changes are announced for KSU football

Ponca City, Okla. 72, Hutchinson Trinity 12

Republic County 42, Thayer Central, Neb. 37

Wichita Sunrise 68, IMG Academy-Blue, Fla. 62

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Atchison 52, Heritage Christian 49Burlingame 53, Cair Paravel 45Hays-TMP-Marian 48, Hays 31Hiawatha 56, Marysville 55Lansing 48, Olathe South 33Lawrence Free State 62, Great Bend 35Liberal, Mo. 50, Baxter Springs 45Maize South 59, Wichita Southeast 50Olathe West 60, Hugoton 37Ponca City, Okla. 72, Hutchinson Trinity 12Republic County 42, Thayer Central, Neb. 37Wetmore 40, Onaga 31Wichita North 36, Newton 27Wichita Sunrise 68, IMG Academy-Blue, Fla. 62

High school basketball results

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– With four players landing on the first team – including Big 12 co-Defensive Lineman of the Year&nbsp;Felix Anudike-Uzomah&nbsp;– a total of 16 Kansas State football players earned postseason accolades as the Big 12 announced the coaches’ All-Big 12 selections on Thursday.

Joining Anudike-Uzomah on the first team was offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe, kick returner&nbsp;Malik Knowles&nbsp;and defensive back&nbsp;Russ Yeast. K-State’s second-team selections were running back&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn&nbsp;and fullback&nbsp;Jax Dineen.

K-State had nine players pick up honorable mention accolades at their respective positions: defensive back&nbsp;Julius Brents, linebackers&nbsp;Cody Fletcher&nbsp;and&nbsp;Daniel Green, defensive tackle&nbsp;Eli Huggins, offensive lineman&nbsp;Noah Johnson, defensive back&nbsp;Jahron McPherson, offensive lineman&nbsp;Josh Rivas, defensive back&nbsp;Reggie Stubblefield&nbsp;and punter&nbsp;Ty Zentner. Knowles also earned an honorable mention nod as a wide receiver.

Additionally, defensive end&nbsp;Nate Matlack&nbsp;earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year award, Anudike-Uzomah for Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Knowles for Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year, Vaughn for Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and Yeast for Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year.

A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Anudike-Uzomah is the fourth Wildcat to earn the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year award since the conference began the honor in 2006, while he is the first K-State player to earn the nod since Jordan Willis in 2016. Anudike-Uzomah ranks second in the Big 12 and ninth nationally in sacks (11.0), while he is first in the nation in forced fumbles (6). His sack total includes a school-record tying 4.0 against TCU, and he also forced two fumbles against the Horned Frogs.

Knowles’ inclusion on the first team as a returner marks the 15th&nbsp;time in the 26-year existence of the Big 12 – and eighth time in the last nine years – that a Wildcat was a First Team All-Big 12 returner. A product of Mansfield, Texas, Knowles leads the nation in both kickoff-return average (32.9 yards per return) and touchdowns (2), as his scores went for 99 yards at Oklahoma State and 93 yards the next week against Oklahoma.

A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe is the only freshman or sophomore to earn First Team All-Big 12 honors this season. He is the Wildcats’ first offensive lineman to earn First Team All-Big 12 accolades since Dalton Risner in 2018, while he is the first to pick up the honor as a freshman or sophomore since Risner in 2016. Beebe started all 12 games at left tackle, but he was versatile enough to fill in at right guard during games throughout the season.

Yeast, who came to K-State as a transfer from Louisville, leads the Big 12 with 13 passes defended, which includes three interceptions to tie for the Big 12 lead. He tallied four passes defended against West Virginia, the highest mark among all Big 12 defenders this season.

A native of Round Rock, Texas, Vaughn is one of only two players in the nation and the only one in the Big 12 with 1,000 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards this season. He finished the regular season ranked fifth nationally and second in the Big 12 with 144.1 scrimmage yards per game. Vaughn also ranks third in the league with 1,258 rushing yards thanks to eight 100-yard rushing games, which includes a current streak of five-straight.

Dineen, a product of Lawrence, Kansas, helped pave the way for Vaughn throughout the year from his fullback position. A seven-game starter in 2021, Dineen also caught four passes for 16 yards and rushed once for two yards this season.

Kansas State, which finished the regular season with a 7-5 record, will learn of its bowl destination on Sunday evening.

Coaches’ All-Big 12 Teams (Kansas State)

Big 12 Co-Defensive Lineman of the Year:&nbsp;Felix Anudike-Uzomah.

First Team:&nbsp;Cooper Beebe (OL), Malik Knowles (KR/PR), Felix Anudike-Uzomah (DL), Russ Yeast (DB).

Second Team:&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn (RB), Jax Dineen (FB).

Honorable Mention:&nbsp;Felix Anudike-Uzomah (Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year), Cooper Beebe (Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year), Julius Brents (DB), Cody Fletcher (LB), Daniel Green (LB), Eli Huggins (DL), Noah Johnson (OL), Malik Knowles (WR, Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year), Nate Matlack (Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year), Jahron McPherson (DB), Josh Rivas (OL), Reggie Stubblefield (DB), Deuce Vaughn (Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year), Russ Yeast (Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year), Ty Zentner (P).

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 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– With four players landing on the first team – including Big 12 co-Defensive Lineman of the Year&nbsp;Felix Anudike-Uzomah&nbsp;– a total of 16 Kansas State football players earned postseason accolades as the Big 12 announced the coaches’ All-Big 12 selections on Thursday.Joining Anudike-Uzomah on the first team was offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe, kick returner&nbsp;Malik Knowles&nbsp;and defensive back&nbsp;Russ Yeast. K-State’s second-team selections were running back&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn&nbsp;and fullback&nbsp;Jax Dineen.K-State had nine players pick up honorable mention accolades at their respective positions: defensive back&nbsp;Julius Brents, linebackers&nbsp;Cody Fletcher&nbsp;and&nbsp;Daniel Green, defensive tackle&nbsp;Eli Huggins, offensive lineman&nbsp;Noah Johnson, defensive back&nbsp;Jahron McPherson, offensive lineman&nbsp;Josh Rivas, defensive back&nbsp;Reggie Stubblefield&nbsp;and punter&nbsp;Ty Zentner. Knowles also earned an honorable mention nod as a wide receiver.Additionally, defensive end&nbsp;Nate Matlack&nbsp;earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year award, Anudike-Uzomah for Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Knowles for Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year, Vaughn for Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and Yeast for Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year.A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Anudike-Uzomah is the fourth Wildcat to earn the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year award since the conference began the honor in 2006, while he is the first K-State player to earn the nod since Jordan Willis in 2016. Anudike-Uzomah ranks second in the Big 12 and ninth nationally in sacks (11.0), while he is first in the nation in forced fumbles (6). His sack total includes a school-record tying 4.0 against TCU, and he also forced two fumbles against the Horned Frogs.Knowles’ inclusion on the first team as a returner marks the 15th&nbsp;time in the 26-year existence of the Big 12 – and eighth time in the last nine years – that a Wildcat was a First Team All-Big 12 returner. A product of Mansfield, Texas, Knowles leads the nation in both kickoff-return average (32.9 yards per return) and touchdowns (2), as his scores went for 99 yards at Oklahoma State and 93 yards the next week against Oklahoma.A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe is the only freshman or sophomore to earn First Team All-Big 12 honors this season. He is the Wildcats’ first offensive lineman to earn First Team All-Big 12 accolades since Dalton Risner in 2018, while he is the first to pick up the honor as a freshman or sophomore since Risner in 2016. Beebe started all 12 games at left tackle, but he was versatile enough to fill in at right guard during games throughout the season.Yeast, who came to K-State as a transfer from Louisville, leads the Big 12 with 13 passes defended, which includes three interceptions to tie for the Big 12 lead. He tallied four passes defended against West Virginia, the highest mark among all Big 12 defenders this season.A native of Round Rock, Texas, Vaughn is one of only two players in the nation and the only one in the Big 12 with 1,000 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards this season. He finished the regular season ranked fifth nationally and second in the Big 12 with 144.1 scrimmage yards per game. Vaughn also ranks third in the league with 1,258 rushing yards thanks to eight 100-yard rushing games, which includes a current streak of five-straight.Dineen, a product of Lawrence, Kansas, helped pave the way for Vaughn throughout the year from his fullback position. A seven-game starter in 2021, Dineen also caught four passes for 16 yards and rushed once for two yards this season.Kansas State, which finished the regular season with a 7-5 record, will learn of its bowl destination on Sunday evening.Coaches’ All-Big 12 Teams (Kansas State)Big 12 Co-Defensive Lineman of the Year:&nbsp;Felix Anudike-Uzomah.First Team:&nbsp;Cooper Beebe (OL), Malik Knowles (KR/PR), Felix Anudike-Uzomah (DL), Russ Yeast (DB).Second Team:&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn (RB), Jax Dineen (FB).Honorable Mention:&nbsp;Felix Anudike-Uzomah (Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year), Cooper Beebe (Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year), Julius Brents (DB), Cody Fletcher (LB), Daniel Green (LB), Eli Huggins (DL), Noah Johnson (OL), Malik Knowles (WR, Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year), Nate Matlack (Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year), Jahron McPherson (DB), Josh Rivas (OL), Reggie Stubblefield (DB), Deuce Vaughn (Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year), Russ Yeast (Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year), Ty Zentner (P).

Sixteen Wildcats Earn All-Big 12 Recognition

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State once again used its defense to stifle an opponent at Bramlage Coliseum, as the Wildcats held UAlbany to 31.5 percent shooting, including just 5.6 percent from 3-point range, en route to a 71-43 win over the Great Danes on Wednesday night.

Combined with 42 allowed to North Dakota on Sunday, the Wildcats (4-2) have now held consecutive opponents under 50 points for the first time since December 2015, while the 85 combined points in the last two games are the fewest since holding Lamar (55) and Alabama-Huntsville (26) to 81 combined points on Nov. 12-13, 2012.

The Great Danes (1-6), which hit on their first 3-point field goal before missing their final 17 attempts, were held to the second-lowest 3-point field goal percentage by an opponent in school history and the lowest since Oklahoma connected on a school-record low 4.8 percent (1-of-21) on Jan. 21, 1993.

K-State has now held 29 opponents to 50 or less under head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber, while the Wildcats moved to 96-10 all-time under Weber when holding an opponent to 60 points or less.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State once again used its defense to stifle an opponent at Bramlage Coliseum, as the Wildcats held UAlbany to 31.5 percent shooting, including just 5.6 percent from 3-point range, en route to a 71-43 win over the Great Danes on Wednesday night.Combined with 42 allowed to North Dakota on Sunday, the Wildcats (4-2) have now held consecutive opponents under 50 points for the first time since December 2015, while the 85 combined points in the last two games are the fewest since holding Lamar (55) and Alabama-Huntsville (26) to 81 combined points on Nov. 12-13, 2012.The Great Danes (1-6), which hit on their first 3-point field goal before missing their final 17 attempts, were held to the second-lowest 3-point field goal percentage by an opponent in school history and the lowest since Oklahoma connected on a school-record low 4.8 percent (1-of-21) on Jan. 21, 1993.K-State has now held 29 opponents to 50 or less under head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber, while the Wildcats moved to 96-10 all-time under Weber when holding an opponent to 60 points or less.

Defense carries K-State past UAlbany

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference announced today the Wildcats’ 2022 schedule, which features an exciting seven-game home schedule.

K-State begins its 2022 campaign with three-straight home games against non-conference opponents, opening the year against South Dakota on September 3 before hosting former Big 12 foe Missouri on September 10. The Wildcats close out their non-conference schedule by hosting Tulane on September 17.

Kansas State opens the Big 12 portion of its 2022 season at Oklahoma on September 24. It will be the fourth-straight year that K-State will open Big 12 play in the state of Oklahoma and the 22nd&nbsp;time in the 27-year history of the Big 12 that K-State will begin conference play away from home.

The Wildcats open Big 12 home play on October 1 against Texas Tech and then travels to face Iowa State on October 8 before their bye.

<a>K-State goes right back out on the road following its bye as it travels to face TCU on October 22, but the Wildcats then have two-straight home games as they face Oklahoma State on October 29 and Texas on November 5.</a>

The final schedule of the season sees Kansas State travel to face Baylor on November 12 and West Virginia on November 19 before closing out the regular season with the Dillons Sunflower Showdown against Kansas at home on November 26.

The 2022 Big 12 Championship game will be held on December 3 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638380678480.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference announced today the Wildcats’ 2022 schedule, which features an exciting seven-game home schedule.K-State begins its 2022 campaign with three-straight home games against non-conference opponents, opening the year against South Dakota on September 3 before hosting former Big 12 foe Missouri on September 10. The Wildcats close out their non-conference schedule by hosting Tulane on September 17.Kansas State opens the Big 12 portion of its 2022 season at Oklahoma on September 24. It will be the fourth-straight year that K-State will open Big 12 play in the state of Oklahoma and the 22nd&nbsp;time in the 27-year history of the Big 12 that K-State will begin conference play away from home.The Wildcats open Big 12 home play on October 1 against Texas Tech and then travels to face Iowa State on October 8 before their bye.<a>K-State goes right back out on the road following its bye as it travels to face TCU on October 22, but the Wildcats then have two-straight home games as they face Oklahoma State on October 29 and Texas on November 5.</a>The final schedule of the season sees Kansas State travel to face Baylor on November 12 and West Virginia on November 19 before closing out the regular season with the Dillons Sunflower Showdown against Kansas at home on November 26.The 2022 Big 12 Championship game will be held on December 3 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

K-State Unveils 2022 Football Schedule

KANSAS STATE (3-2) vs. UALBANY (1-5)

Wednesday, December 1, 2021 &gt;&gt; 7:01 p.m. CT &gt;&gt; Bramlage Coliseum (11,654) &gt;&gt; Manhattan, Kan.

Kansas State: Bruce Weber (Wis.-Milwaukee ’78)

K-STATE CONCLUDES HOMESTAND VS. UALBANY WEDNESDAY

KANSAS STATE (3-2) vs. UALBANY (1-5)Wednesday, December 1, 2021 &gt;&gt; 7:01 p.m. CT &gt;&gt; Bramlage Coliseum (11,654) &gt;&gt; Manhattan, Kan.COACHESKansas State: Bruce Weber (Wis.-Milwaukee ’78)Overall: 486-287/24th&nbsp;seasonAt K-State: 173-132/10th&nbsp;seasonvs. UAlbany: 0-0 (0-0 at K-State)UAlbany: Dwayne Killings (Howard ‘03)Overall: 1-5/1st&nbsp;seasonSchool Record: 1-5/1st&nbsp;seasonvs. K-State: 0-0 (0-0 at UAlbany)PROJECTED STARTING LINEUPKansas State (3-2)G: #00 Mike McGuirlG: #13 Mark SmithG: #21 Nijel PackF: #25 Ismael [Ish] MassoudF: #20 Kaosi EzeaguUAlbany (1-5)G: #5 Jamel HortonG: #20 Matt CerrutiG/F: #3 Trey HutchesonF: #2 Dre PerryC: #24 Paul NewmanK-STATE CONCLUDES HOMESTAND VS. UALBANY WEDNESDAY<ul>
 <li>Kansas State (3-2) concludes a brief 2-game homestand on Wednesday night, as the Wildcats play host to America East foe UAlbany (1-5) at 7 p.m., CT at Bramlage Coliseum. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys and/or gift cards to Wednesday’s game to support Fort Riley’s Operation Santa Claus.</li><li>Celebrating its 37th year, Fort Riley’s Operation Santa Claus helps service members, and their families provide gifts to their children during the holiday season. All donations will go towards a Fort Riley soldier, especially to families under financial constraints and families of deployed, fallen, or injured soldiers.</li><li>K-State has won 6 straight at Bramlage Coliseum against non-conference opponents dating back to last season, including opening the season with wins over Florida A&amp;M (67-57), Omaha (79-64) and North Dakota (84-42).</li>
 </ul>

K-state prepares to host UAlbany

LAWRENCE/MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Both Kansas and Kansas State’s volleyball teams will make the NCAA Tournament.

For the 10th time in program history, the Jayhawks (16-11) are going dancing. They will face Oregon (22-8) in the first round. They’ll play Dec. 2 at 3:40 pm in Omaha, Nebraska.

&nbsp; The Wildcats (15-12) received the program’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2021/11/28/k-state-earns-bid-to-2021-ncaa-volleyball-championship.aspx" target="_blank">18th all-time selection to the tournament</a>. Kansas State will play Florida State (19-9) in Lincoln, Nebraska. That match will be played Dec. 3 at 4:30 pm at the Devaney Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By WIBW TVLAWRENCE/MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Both Kansas and Kansas State’s volleyball teams will make the NCAA Tournament.For the 10th time in program history, the Jayhawks (16-11) are going dancing. They will face Oregon (22-8) in the first round. They’ll play Dec. 2 at 3:40 pm in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp; The Wildcats (15-12) received the program’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2021/11/28/k-state-earns-bid-to-2021-ncaa-volleyball-championship.aspx" target="_blank">18th all-time selection to the tournament</a>. Kansas State will play Florida State (19-9) in Lincoln, Nebraska. That match will be played Dec. 3 at 4:30 pm at the Devaney Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KU and K-State volleyball teams qualify for the NCAA Tournament

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — No. 4 Kansas beat Iona 96-83 in the first meeting between Hall of Fame coaches Bill Self and Rick Pitino. Christian Braun had 18 points and seven rebounds, and Ochai Agbaji added 17 points for Kansas. The Jayhawks were was coming off their first loss of the season, 74-73 to Dayton on a buzzer-beater in an ESPN Events Invitational semifinal on Friday. Beating Pitino’s Iona team was enough to salvage third place in the tournament for Self’s Jayhawks. The Gaels opened the tournament with a win over No. 10 Alabama. Iona got 14 points apiece from Tyson Jolly and Ryan Myers.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — No. 4 Kansas beat Iona 96-83 in the first meeting between Hall of Fame coaches Bill Self and Rick Pitino. Christian Braun had 18 points and seven rebounds, and Ochai Agbaji added 17 points for Kansas. The Jayhawks were was coming off their first loss of the season, 74-73 to Dayton on a buzzer-beater in an ESPN Events Invitational semifinal on Friday. Beating Pitino’s Iona team was enough to salvage third place in the tournament for Self’s Jayhawks. The Gaels opened the tournament with a win over No. 10 Alabama. Iona got 14 points apiece from Tyson Jolly and Ryan Myers.

Kansas tops Iona in first meeting between Hall of Fame coaches

MANHATTAN, Kansas (AP) — Markquis Nowell scored 18 points with five assists, Nijel Pack drained four 3-pointers to score 16 points and five players reached into double figures as Kansas State demolished North Dakota 84-42. Mike McGuirl and Kaosi Ezeagu each scored 15 points and  Mark Smith 11 for the Wildcats, who snapped a two-game skid in a big way.  Paul Bruns scored 16 points to lead North Dakota (2-5), which lost a fourth straight. Bentiu Panoam added 10 points. The Fighting Hawks shot 29% and were 3-for-31 from distance.

MANHATTAN, Kansas (AP) — Markquis Nowell scored 18 points with five assists, Nijel Pack drained four 3-pointers to score 16 points and five players reached into double figures as Kansas State demolished North Dakota 84-42. Mike McGuirl and Kaosi Ezeagu each scored 15 points and Mark Smith 11 for the Wildcats, who snapped a two-game skid in a big way. Paul Bruns scored 16 points to lead North Dakota (2-5), which lost a fourth straight. Bentiu Panoam added 10 points. The Fighting Hawks shot 29% and were 3-for-31 from distance.

K-State romps past North Dakota

PREP FOOTBALL=State Championship=Class 8M-I=Meade 22, Little River 14Class 8M-II=Axtell 44, Wheatland-Grinnell 18Class 6A=BV Northwest 41, Derby 21Class 5A=Mill Valley 28, Maize 14Class 4A=St. James Academy 28, Andover Central 21Class 3A=Andale 53, Frontenac 0Class 2A=Rossville 35, Beloit 12Class 1A=Olpe 35, Inman 6

State championship game football results

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — Mustapha Amzil hit a running jumper in the lane at the buzzer, and Dayton beat No. 4 Kansas 74-73. Kansas’ David McCormack blocked Malachi Smith’s layup with 3 seconds left. Amzil picked up the loose ball, and his shot went off the rim and backboard before going in. After Smith cut the deficit to 73-72 on a layup, McCormack was called for an offensive foul with 9 seconds to play.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — Mustapha Amzil hit a running jumper in the lane at the buzzer, and Dayton beat No. 4 Kansas 74-73. Kansas’ David McCormack blocked Malachi Smith’s layup with 3 seconds left. Amzil picked up the loose ball, and his shot went off the rim and backboard before going in. After Smith cut the deficit to 73-72 on a layup, McCormack was called for an offensive foul with 9 seconds to play.

Shot at the buzzer lifts Dayton past Kansas

Cover image by Tommy Rezac / St. Joseph Post

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Even the mind of Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid, whose ability to put on blinders and focus only on the future is downright legendary, can find its way back to a season that looked remarkably like this one.

You know, when the Chiefs won the Super Bowl?

That year began with then-new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo trying to implement a wholesale change in scheme, resulting in a bunch that was bad the previous year under Bob Sutton and just may have been worse. Throw in a whole bunch of injuries, including one to Patrick Mahomes, and the result was a decidedly un-championship-like 6-4 start to the year.

That was the same record the Chiefs had through the first 10 weeks this season.

It also was produced by a defense that was historically inept for the first eight weeks of the season, and injuries to such big names as Chris Jones, Frank Clark and Clyde Edwards-Helaire that hampered the Chiefs on both sides of the ball.

"I wouldn't say specifically that I've brought it up," Reid said. "I understand that, but you spend so much time focusing on getting yourself ready to play that those things don't necessarily have an impact. It does in the big picture, but when you're getting ready to play a good football team, you spend every minute trying to get the scheme down and get their scheme down and then understand their players. It's endless hours on that, trying to get that done."

Reid should have some time to ponder such comparisons during the Chiefs bye this week.

It probably would give him a whole lot of confidence in what lies ahead.

Back in 2019, the Chiefs ran the table after their mediocre start, relying on a defense that adapted to Spagnuolo's system and an offense that had a healthy Mahomes. They won their last game before their bye, which also came in Week 12, and began their torrid run to the playoffs by beating up the AFC West-rival Raiders after the break.

This year's version of the Chiefs also turned things around on defense. They have held four straight opponents to 301 yards or fewer, coinciding with a season-changing four-game win streak. And they played easily their best game of the season against the NFL's top-ranked offense in a 19-9 win over the Cowboys last week.

Dallas turned the ball over three times and managed just 276 yards in a game that was always in Kansas City's control.

"It got lost because the offense wasn't playing very well, that we were winning games because of the defense," Mahomes said. "People were so used to our offense kind of going out there and putting up these numbers, but I would say it every week when I was right here at the podium, don't lose how good our defense is playing."

Now the trick is to keep playing that way. 

The defense in 2019 managed to do it, holding three of its five opponents after the bye to fewer than 300 yards. It held the Titans to 295 yards in the AFC title game to usher the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl since 1971, then was strong enough to allow Kansas City to mount a comeback against the 49ers.

There's every reason to believe this year's bunch can do it, too. They have more talent top to bottom than the 2019 defense did, particularly since the arrival of pass rusher Melvin Ingram. His work opposite Frank Clark on the defensive line has allowed Chris Jones to move back to his more natural position at defensive tackle, and he's made life miserable for opposing quarters; he had 3 1/2 sacks, forced a fumble and recovered one against the Cowboys last weekend.

In the linebacker group, second-round pick Nick Bolton has given the Chiefs the kind of athleticism that they've lacked since Derrick Johnson retired. And in the secondary, L'Jarius Sneed is playing at a Pro Bowl level at cornerback, which has freed up three-time All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu to freelance a bit more and cause defensive havoc.

"I'm not trying to blame it on injuries," Spagnuolo said, "but it always feels better or seems to come together when you can have some consecutive weeks of the same guys. When you can get a volume of reps underneath your belt with the same guys, talking to the same guy — you know what I'm saying? To me, that would be the biggest thing."

Perhaps the most encouraging part of the Chiefs' midseason turnaround? Their high-powered offense still isn't in sync.

Imagine what the Chiefs could do the rest of the way if Mahomes and Co. start lighting up the scoreboard again.

"We lost some games close early that we probably should have won if we found ways to finish. We took some big lumps and had some big losses that we don't usually have here," Mahomes said. "We kind of went back to the drawing board, went back to the fundamentals and decided to take it week by week, go through the process, trust in the coaching staff. We're sitting here now with everything in front of us. We just have to keep that same mindset."

Cover image by Tommy Rezac / St. Joseph PostBy DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Even the mind of Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid, whose ability to put on blinders and focus only on the future is downright legendary, can find its way back to a season that looked remarkably like this one.It was only two years ago.You know, when the Chiefs won the Super Bowl?That year began with then-new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo trying to implement a wholesale change in scheme, resulting in a bunch that was bad the previous year under Bob Sutton and just may have been worse. Throw in a whole bunch of injuries, including one to Patrick Mahomes, and the result was a decidedly un-championship-like 6-4 start to the year.That was the same record the Chiefs had through the first 10 weeks this season.It also was produced by a defense that was historically inept for the first eight weeks of the season, and injuries to such big names as Chris Jones, Frank Clark and Clyde Edwards-Helaire that hampered the Chiefs on both sides of the ball."I wouldn't say specifically that I've brought it up," Reid said. "I understand that, but you spend so much time focusing on getting yourself ready to play that those things don't necessarily have an impact. It does in the big picture, but when you're getting ready to play a good football team, you spend every minute trying to get the scheme down and get their scheme down and then understand their players. It's endless hours on that, trying to get that done."Reid should have some time to ponder such comparisons during the Chiefs bye this week.It probably would give him a whole lot of confidence in what lies ahead.Back in 2019, the Chiefs ran the table after their mediocre start, relying on a defense that adapted to Spagnuolo's system and an offense that had a healthy Mahomes. They won their last game before their bye, which also came in Week 12, and began their torrid run to the playoffs by beating up the AFC West-rival Raiders after the break.This year's version of the Chiefs also turned things around on defense. They have held four straight opponents to 301 yards or fewer, coinciding with a season-changing four-game win streak. And they played easily their best game of the season against the NFL's top-ranked offense in a 19-9 win over the Cowboys last week.Dallas turned the ball over three times and managed just 276 yards in a game that was always in Kansas City's control."It got lost because the offense wasn't playing very well, that we were winning games because of the defense," Mahomes said. "People were so used to our offense kind of going out there and putting up these numbers, but I would say it every week when I was right here at the podium, don't lose how good our defense is playing."Now the trick is to keep playing that way. The defense in 2019 managed to do it, holding three of its five opponents after the bye to fewer than 300 yards. It held the Titans to 295 yards in the AFC title game to usher the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl since 1971, then was strong enough to allow Kansas City to mount a comeback against the 49ers.There's every reason to believe this year's bunch can do it, too. They have more talent top to bottom than the 2019 defense did, particularly since the arrival of pass rusher Melvin Ingram. His work opposite Frank Clark on the defensive line has allowed Chris Jones to move back to his more natural position at defensive tackle, and he's made life miserable for opposing quarters; he had 3 1/2 sacks, forced a fumble and recovered one against the Cowboys last weekend.In the linebacker group, second-round pick Nick Bolton has given the Chiefs the kind of athleticism that they've lacked since Derrick Johnson retired. And in the secondary, L'Jarius Sneed is playing at a Pro Bowl level at cornerback, which has freed up three-time All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu to freelance a bit more and cause defensive havoc."I'm not trying to blame it on injuries," Spagnuolo said, "but it always feels better or seems to come together when you can have some consecutive weeks of the same guys. When you can get a volume of reps underneath your belt with the same guys, talking to the same guy — you know what I'm saying? To me, that would be the biggest thing."Perhaps the most encouraging part of the Chiefs' midseason turnaround? Their high-powered offense still isn't in sync.Imagine what the Chiefs could do the rest of the way if Mahomes and Co. start lighting up the scoreboard again."We lost some games close early that we probably should have won if we found ways to finish. We took some big lumps and had some big losses that we don't usually have here," Mahomes said. "We kind of went back to the drawing board, went back to the fundamentals and decided to take it week by week, go through the process, trust in the coaching staff. We're sitting here now with everything in front of us. We just have to keep that same mindset."

🏈 Chiefs see similarities to 2019 turnaround that led to title

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– No. 14/15 Illinois broke open a tight contest with a decisive 21-7 run midway through the second half, which included five 3-point field goals, to pull away from Kansas State on Tuesday night in the consolation game of the Hall of Fame Classic in front of 7,255 at the T-Mobile Center.

A night after shooting just 28.1 percent from the field, including 13.6 percent from 3-point range, in a loss to Cincinnati, the Fighting Illini (3-2) seemed to make every shot against the Wildcats (2-2), as they connected on 52.1 percent (25-of-48) from the field, including 12 makes from 3-point range on 46.2 percent (12-of-26) shooting. Seven of those 12 triples came from fifth-year senior&nbsp;Alfonso Plummer, who finished the night with 21 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including 7-of-9 from long range.

The Illini’s 3-point efficiency came on top of a dominant performance from their All-American center&nbsp;Kofi Cockburn, who finished the night with game-highs in both points (23) and rebounding (13).

K-State, on the other hand, couldn’t find any offensive rhythm, connecting on just 38.5 percent (25-of-65) from the field, including 28.6 percent (6-of-21) from 3-point range, with just 9 assists on 25 made field goals. After shooting 44.8 percent (13-of-29) to help close the deficit to 34-31 at the half, the Wildcats couldn’t sustain that output in the second half, shooting just 33.3 percent (12-of-36) from the field, including 23.1 percent (3-of-13) from long range.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– No. 14/15 Illinois broke open a tight contest with a decisive 21-7 run midway through the second half, which included five 3-point field goals, to pull away from Kansas State on Tuesday night in the consolation game of the Hall of Fame Classic in front of 7,255 at the T-Mobile Center.A night after shooting just 28.1 percent from the field, including 13.6 percent from 3-point range, in a loss to Cincinnati, the Fighting Illini (3-2) seemed to make every shot against the Wildcats (2-2), as they connected on 52.1 percent (25-of-48) from the field, including 12 makes from 3-point range on 46.2 percent (12-of-26) shooting. Seven of those 12 triples came from fifth-year senior&nbsp;Alfonso Plummer, who finished the night with 21 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including 7-of-9 from long range.The Illini’s 3-point efficiency came on top of a dominant performance from their All-American center&nbsp;Kofi Cockburn, who finished the night with game-highs in both points (23) and rebounding (13).K-State, on the other hand, couldn’t find any offensive rhythm, connecting on just 38.5 percent (25-of-65) from the field, including 28.6 percent (6-of-21) from 3-point range, with just 9 assists on 25 made field goals. After shooting 44.8 percent (13-of-29) to help close the deficit to 34-31 at the half, the Wildcats couldn’t sustain that output in the second half, shooting just 33.3 percent (12-of-36) from the field, including 23.1 percent (3-of-13) from long range.

Wildcats fall to Illinois

Stadium: DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium (100,119)

WILDCATS CLOSE OUT REGULAR SEASON AT TEXAS

Coming off a tough home loss to No. 11 Baylor, Kansas State hits the road for the final regular-season game of the season as the Wildcats face Texas on Friday in Austin. The contest against the Longhorns kicks at 11 a.m., and will be televised by FOX with Aaron Goldsmith (play-by-play) and Mark Helfrich (analyst) on the call. The game can be heard across the 39-station K-State Sports Network with Wyatt Thompson (play-by-play), former K-State quarterback Stan Weber (analyst) and Matt Walters (sidelines) calling the action. Fans can also catch the game on SiriusXM (XM: 200; App: 954) in addition to The Varsity Network app.

• K-State has put together four solid outings in the last five weeks in wins over Texas Tech, TCU, Kansas and West Virginia.

• Skylar Thompson has put together the best passing stretch of his career in the last seven games. During that time, Thompson has thrown for 1,614 yards and nine touchdowns with just two interceptions on 129-of-187 (70.0%) aim.

• Thompson enters the week ranked 14th nationally in passing yards per attempt (9.04) and completion percentage (68.8%).

• Thompson’s favorite receiver this year has been Deuce Vaughn, who leads the team with 45 receptions for 464 yards and three scores.

• A Doak Walker Award Semifinalist, Vaughn has totaled 602 yards from scrimmage over the last five games (120.4 yards per game), which includes 100-yard rushing games against No. 11 Baylor, KU, West Virginia and TCU.

• This year, Vaughn has totaled 1,579 scrimmage yards (1,115 rush/464 receive) and 17 total touchdowns. He ranks fourth nationally in scrimmage yards per game (143.5).

• In his 21 career games, Vaughn has at least 100 scrimmage yards 16 times, which includes each of the last 13 games.

• Receivers Phillip Brooks, Malik Knowles and Landry Weber have combined for 75 catches for 1,053 yards and five scores.

• The Wildcats, deploying a new 3-3-5 look and regularly rotating in over 25 players on defense, rank 21st in the nation and second in the Big 12 against the run (118.5 yds/gm).

• Linebackers Daniel Green (72) and Cody Fletcher (64) lead the team in tackles.

• Felix Anudike-Uzomah leads the nation in forced fumbles with six – which is tied for the school record – while he is third in sacks (11.0) and 12th in tackles for loss (14.5). A native of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Anudike-Uzomah is just a half sack shy of tying the school record.

• He earned three national player of the week awards and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors following a school-record tying 4.0 sacks against TCU.

• Safety Russ Yeast – a transfer from Louisville – is tied for the Big 12 lead with three interceptions, while he had four total passes defended against West Virginia to tie for the 11th-best mark in the nation this year.

• Punter Ty Zentner ranks fourth in the Big 12 with a 44.7-yard average.

• Malik Knowles has returned two kickoffs for a touchdown, and he ranks third in the nation with a 32.1-yard average.

Date: Friday, November 26Kickoff: 11 a.m.Location: Austin, TexasStadium: DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium (100,119)Series: Texas Leads, 11-10WILDCATS CLOSE OUT REGULAR SEASON AT TEXASComing off a tough home loss to No. 11 Baylor, Kansas State hits the road for the final regular-season game of the season as the Wildcats face Texas on Friday in Austin. The contest against the Longhorns kicks at 11 a.m., and will be televised by FOX with Aaron Goldsmith (play-by-play) and Mark Helfrich (analyst) on the call. The game can be heard across the 39-station K-State Sports Network with Wyatt Thompson (play-by-play), former K-State quarterback Stan Weber (analyst) and Matt Walters (sidelines) calling the action. Fans can also catch the game on SiriusXM (XM: 200; App: 954) in addition to The Varsity Network app. A LOOK AT K-STATE• K-State has put together four solid outings in the last five weeks in wins over Texas Tech, TCU, Kansas and West Virginia.• Skylar Thompson has put together the best passing stretch of his career in the last seven games. During that time, Thompson has thrown for 1,614 yards and nine touchdowns with just two interceptions on 129-of-187 (70.0%) aim.• Thompson enters the week ranked 14th nationally in passing yards per attempt (9.04) and completion percentage (68.8%).• Thompson’s favorite receiver this year has been Deuce Vaughn, who leads the team with 45 receptions for 464 yards and three scores.• A Doak Walker Award Semifinalist, Vaughn has totaled 602 yards from scrimmage over the last five games (120.4 yards per game), which includes 100-yard rushing games against No. 11 Baylor, KU, West Virginia and TCU.• This year, Vaughn has totaled 1,579 scrimmage yards (1,115 rush/464 receive) and 17 total touchdowns. He ranks fourth nationally in scrimmage yards per game (143.5).• In his 21 career games, Vaughn has at least 100 scrimmage yards 16 times, which includes each of the last 13 games.• Receivers Phillip Brooks, Malik Knowles and Landry Weber have combined for 75 catches for 1,053 yards and five scores.• The Wildcats, deploying a new 3-3-5 look and regularly rotating in over 25 players on defense, rank 21st in the nation and second in the Big 12 against the run (118.5 yds/gm).• Linebackers Daniel Green (72) and Cody Fletcher (64) lead the team in tackles.• Felix Anudike-Uzomah leads the nation in forced fumbles with six – which is tied for the school record – while he is third in sacks (11.0) and 12th in tackles for loss (14.5). A native of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Anudike-Uzomah is just a half sack shy of tying the school record.• He earned three national player of the week awards and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors following a school-record tying 4.0 sacks against TCU.• Safety Russ Yeast – a transfer from Louisville – is tied for the Big 12 lead with three interceptions, while he had four total passes defended against West Virginia to tie for the 11th-best mark in the nation this year.• Punter Ty Zentner ranks fourth in the Big 12 with a 44.7-yard average.• Malik Knowles has returned two kickoffs for a touchdown, and he ranks third in the nation with a 32.1-yard average.

K-State plays at Texas Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– Kansas State nearly dug itself out of an 18-point deficit with a gritty second-half effort, however, No. 13/12 Arkansas made the right plays down the stretch to hold off the rally in a 72-64 win on Monday night in the semifinals of the Hall of Fame Classic before 9,409 fans at the T-Mobile Center.

The Razorbacks (4-0) now advance to the Championship game on Tuesday night to play unbeaten Cincinnati (5-0), which knocked No. 14/15 Illinois (2-2) in the first semifinal. The Wildcats (2-1) will face the Fighting Illini in the consolation game on Tuesday at 6 p.m., CT.

Down by as many as 18 points, including 45-27, just under 2 minutes into the second half, the Wildcats closed to within 62-54 on a pair of free throws by sophomore&nbsp;Nijel Pack&nbsp;with 1:53 to play then to 66-60 on a Pack 3-pointer with under a minute to play. However, reserve guard&nbsp;Chris Lykes&nbsp;was a perfect 10-of-10 from the free throw line in the last 1:46 to stave off any further attempts at a comeback.

Lykes was among five Razorbacks in double figures, tying for the team lead with junior&nbsp;Conner Vanover&nbsp;with 14 points each, while senior&nbsp;Au’Diese Toney&nbsp;added a near double-double with 13 points and 9 rebounds.

Pack tied for the game-high lead with 14 points on 5-of-12 field goals and 3-of-3 free throws, while fellow sophomore&nbsp;Selton Miguel&nbsp;had a near double-double with a game-tying 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting to go with a career-best 9 rebounds. Junior&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;added 10 points off the bench, eclipsing 1,000 points in college in a career that started at Little Rock in 2018-19.

K-State dug itself into its double-digit deficit with a poor offensive start, as the Wildcats connected on just 25.9 percent (7-of-27) from the field, including 0-of-10 from 3-point range, in the first half to go with 8 turnovers. The team flipped the switch in the second half, scoring 40 points on 46.9 percent (15-of-32) shooting.

The teams were nearly identical shooting the ball with K-State connecting on 37.3 percent (22-of-59) from the field compared to Arkansas’ 36.2 percent (21-of-58), as they combined to hit just 6 of 44 3-point attempts (13.6 percent). However, the Razorbacks took advantage of the 45 personal fouls to convert on 27 of 34 free throw attempts (79.4 percent), which was 10 more than the Wildcats (17-of-23; 73.9 percent).

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– Kansas State nearly dug itself out of an 18-point deficit with a gritty second-half effort, however, No. 13/12 Arkansas made the right plays down the stretch to hold off the rally in a 72-64 win on Monday night in the semifinals of the Hall of Fame Classic before 9,409 fans at the T-Mobile Center.The Razorbacks (4-0) now advance to the Championship game on Tuesday night to play unbeaten Cincinnati (5-0), which knocked No. 14/15 Illinois (2-2) in the first semifinal. The Wildcats (2-1) will face the Fighting Illini in the consolation game on Tuesday at 6 p.m., CT.Down by as many as 18 points, including 45-27, just under 2 minutes into the second half, the Wildcats closed to within 62-54 on a pair of free throws by sophomore&nbsp;Nijel Pack&nbsp;with 1:53 to play then to 66-60 on a Pack 3-pointer with under a minute to play. However, reserve guard&nbsp;Chris Lykes&nbsp;was a perfect 10-of-10 from the free throw line in the last 1:46 to stave off any further attempts at a comeback.Lykes was among five Razorbacks in double figures, tying for the team lead with junior&nbsp;Conner Vanover&nbsp;with 14 points each, while senior&nbsp;Au’Diese Toney&nbsp;added a near double-double with 13 points and 9 rebounds.Pack tied for the game-high lead with 14 points on 5-of-12 field goals and 3-of-3 free throws, while fellow sophomore&nbsp;Selton Miguel&nbsp;had a near double-double with a game-tying 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting to go with a career-best 9 rebounds. Junior&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;added 10 points off the bench, eclipsing 1,000 points in college in a career that started at Little Rock in 2018-19.K-State dug itself into its double-digit deficit with a poor offensive start, as the Wildcats connected on just 25.9 percent (7-of-27) from the field, including 0-of-10 from 3-point range, in the first half to go with 8 turnovers. The team flipped the switch in the second half, scoring 40 points on 46.9 percent (15-of-32) shooting.The teams were nearly identical shooting the ball with K-State connecting on 37.3 percent (22-of-59) from the field compared to Arkansas’ 36.2 percent (21-of-58), as they combined to hit just 6 of 44 3-point attempts (13.6 percent). However, the Razorbacks took advantage of the 45 personal fouls to convert on 27 of 34 free throw attempts (79.4 percent), which was 10 more than the Wildcats (17-of-23; 73.9 percent).