MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — AJ Staton-McCray and Elijah Fisher scored 16 points apiece, and Seton Hall built a double-digit lead early in the second half to cruise past Kansas State 78-67 on Saturday in a rare matchup.

Adam Clark scored five points and Fisher added four as Seton Hall closed the first half on a 9-3 surge for a 35-29 halftime advantage. The Pirates opened the second half on a 22-6 run and led 51-35.

K-State pulled within 62-54 with about six minutes left but didn't get closer.

Staton-McCray was just 3 of 15 from the floor but made all nine of his free-throw attempts. Fisher was 5-of-9 shooting. Najai Hines added 11 points and Clark finished with 10 for Seton Hall (9-1).

Khamari McGriff scored 12 points and grabbed eight rebounds for Kansas State (5-4), which shot 37% (23 of 62) and missed 20 of its 35 free-throw attempts.

Seton Hall earned a 34-29 win over K-State on Dec. 30, 1940 in the only previous meeting. The win was in the midst of the Pirates’ program-record 41-game winning streak that spanned 1939-41.

Kansas State plays at home against Mississippi Valley State on Monday.

Seton Hall will look to extend a four-game win streak with a home game against Rutgers on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765068829046.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — AJ Staton-McCray and Elijah Fisher scored 16 points apiece, and Seton Hall built a double-digit lead early in the second half to cruise past Kansas State 78-67 on Saturday in a rare matchup.Adam Clark scored five points and Fisher added four as Seton Hall closed the first half on a 9-3 surge for a 35-29 halftime advantage. The Pirates opened the second half on a 22-6 run and led 51-35.K-State pulled within 62-54 with about six minutes left but didn't get closer.Staton-McCray was just 3 of 15 from the floor but made all nine of his free-throw attempts. Fisher was 5-of-9 shooting. Najai Hines added 11 points and Clark finished with 10 for Seton Hall (9-1).Khamari McGriff scored 12 points and grabbed eight rebounds for Kansas State (5-4), which shot 37% (23 of 62) and missed 20 of its 35 free-throw attempts.The Wildcats have lost four straight.Seton Hall earned a 34-29 win over K-State on Dec. 30, 1940 in the only previous meeting. The win was in the midst of the Pirates’ program-record 41-game winning streak that spanned 1939-41.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State plays at home against Mississippi Valley State on Monday.Seton Hall will look to extend a four-game win streak with a home game against Rutgers on Saturday.

🏀 Seton Hall hands Kansas State a fourth straight loss

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Led by first-team selection offensive lineman&nbsp;Sam Hecht, Kansas State collected 13 All-Big 12 citations as the league announced the 2025 Coaches’ All-Big 12 selections on Thursday.

Hecht, a senior who also earned votes from the coaches for the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year award, has started each of the last 25 games at center and played in 42 career contests. An All-Big 12 Second Team selection last year, he anchored an offensive line that helped the Wildcats finish the regular season in a tie for 13th place nationally in fewest sacks per game (1.08), while they rushed for 678 yards the last two weeks against Utah and Colorado to rank fourth in the nation and tops among Power 4 schools.

A product of Shawnee, Kansas, Hecht anchored an offensive line that paved the way for a school-record 472 rushing yards at Utah, breaking a mark that stood for 71 years.

K-State’s All-Big 12 Second Team honors included junior linebacker&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;and junior offensive linemen&nbsp;John Pastore. It is the second-straight season that Romaine earned second-team honors from the league’s coaches. He finished second on the team with 66 tackles while only playing in nine games, missing the final three games due to injury. Romaine, a Hillsboro, Missouri, product, also ranked second on the squad with 7.0 tackles for loss, while he had two pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble.

Pastore, a native of Erie, Colorado, started all 12 games at left tackle, which were the first starts of his career.

Junior wide receiver&nbsp;Jayce Brown&nbsp;and sophomore running back&nbsp;Joe Jackson&nbsp;each earned All-Big 12 Third Team accolades. Brown, a native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, started nine of his 10 games played this season before missing the final two games due to injury. He hauled in 41 receptions for 712 yards and five touchdowns, which was highlighted by a 160-yard effort at Kansas. He finished the regular season ranked sixth in the Big 12 with 71.2 receiving yards per game and fourth with 17.37 receiving yards per catch.

Jackson, who started nine games this season, finished the regular season with a team-leading 911 rushing yards with eight touchdowns. He recorded 435 of his rushing yards in the last two regular-season games to rank second nationally and tops among Power 4 players. A native of Haines City, Florida, Jackson set the school’s single-game rushing record with 293 yards at Utah, setting a new school single-game record that was previously held by Darren Sproles.

Kansas State’s All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selections this year include wide receiver&nbsp;Jaron Tibbs, tight end&nbsp;Garrett Oakley, defensive linemen&nbsp;Damian Ilalio,&nbsp;Chiddi Obiazor&nbsp;and&nbsp;Cody Stufflebean, linebacker&nbsp;Des Purnell&nbsp;and defensive backs&nbsp;VJ Payne&nbsp;and&nbsp;Zashon Rich.

Coaches’ All-Big 12 Teams (Kansas State)

Second Team:&nbsp;John Pastore (OL), Austin Romaine (LB).

Third Team:&nbsp;Joe Jackson (RB), Jayce Brown (WR).

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Led by first-team selection offensive lineman&nbsp;Sam Hecht, Kansas State collected 13 All-Big 12 citations as the league announced the 2025 Coaches’ All-Big 12 selections on Thursday.Hecht, a senior who also earned votes from the coaches for the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year award, has started each of the last 25 games at center and played in 42 career contests. An All-Big 12 Second Team selection last year, he anchored an offensive line that helped the Wildcats finish the regular season in a tie for 13th place nationally in fewest sacks per game (1.08), while they rushed for 678 yards the last two weeks against Utah and Colorado to rank fourth in the nation and tops among Power 4 schools.A product of Shawnee, Kansas, Hecht anchored an offensive line that paved the way for a school-record 472 rushing yards at Utah, breaking a mark that stood for 71 years.K-State’s All-Big 12 Second Team honors included junior linebacker&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;and junior offensive linemen&nbsp;John Pastore. It is the second-straight season that Romaine earned second-team honors from the league’s coaches. He finished second on the team with 66 tackles while only playing in nine games, missing the final three games due to injury. Romaine, a Hillsboro, Missouri, product, also ranked second on the squad with 7.0 tackles for loss, while he had two pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble.Pastore, a native of Erie, Colorado, started all 12 games at left tackle, which were the first starts of his career.Junior wide receiver&nbsp;Jayce Brown&nbsp;and sophomore running back&nbsp;Joe Jackson&nbsp;each earned All-Big 12 Third Team accolades. Brown, a native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, started nine of his 10 games played this season before missing the final two games due to injury. He hauled in 41 receptions for 712 yards and five touchdowns, which was highlighted by a 160-yard effort at Kansas. He finished the regular season ranked sixth in the Big 12 with 71.2 receiving yards per game and fourth with 17.37 receiving yards per catch.Jackson, who started nine games this season, finished the regular season with a team-leading 911 rushing yards with eight touchdowns. He recorded 435 of his rushing yards in the last two regular-season games to rank second nationally and tops among Power 4 players. A native of Haines City, Florida, Jackson set the school’s single-game rushing record with 293 yards at Utah, setting a new school single-game record that was previously held by Darren Sproles.Kansas State’s All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selections this year include wide receiver&nbsp;Jaron Tibbs, tight end&nbsp;Garrett Oakley, defensive linemen&nbsp;Damian Ilalio,&nbsp;Chiddi Obiazor&nbsp;and&nbsp;Cody Stufflebean, linebacker&nbsp;Des Purnell&nbsp;and defensive backs&nbsp;VJ Payne&nbsp;and&nbsp;Zashon Rich.Coaches’ All-Big 12 Teams (Kansas State)First Team:&nbsp;Sam Hecht (OL).Second Team:&nbsp;John Pastore (OL), Austin Romaine (LB).Third Team:&nbsp;Joe Jackson (RB), Jayce Brown (WR).

K-State Garners 13 All-Big 12 Selections

By Anthony Gorges JC/Little Apple Post

Kansas State Athletics announced on Wednesday that head football coach Chris Klieman was retiring. Klieman, who has spent seven years with the school and is 58 years old, stated that for the first time, he’s putting his family first and looks forward to spending more time with them moving forward. K-State held a press conference at the Vanier Family Football Complex on Wednesday afternoon where Klieman and Athletics Director Gene Taylor spoke about Klieman’s decision.

A full room of media and K-State staff gave Coach Klieman a round of applause as he made his way to the podium. Klieman began his press conference by thanking everyone for being there. “It just goes to show me that the good guys win,” Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman said. “Doing things the right way, doing it with class and doing it with integrity is the right way. Guys, that’s the K-State way.”

Klieman said despite it being an emotional day, “I am at peace.” He noted that colleagues, former players, and parents of current players reached out to him and congratulated him and his wife, Rhonda. Klieman stated one of the reasons he was in the business of coaching was to have that kind of impact.

Chris Klieman previously served as head coach at North Dakota State before coming to Kansas State to lead the Wildcats. He held many other coaching positions after spending more than thirty years as a coach. “I am one of the lucky ones,” Klieman said. He pointed out that he spent fifteen years at his last two stops and noted that is very rare in the coaching profession. Current Kansas State Athletic Director (AD) Gene Taylor previously served as AD at North Dakota State and was the one who hired Klieman to be a head coach at both schools. Klieman expressed his thanks and gratitude to Taylor at the press conference.

Speaking about his twelve years as a head coach (five at NDSU and seven at K-State), Klieman said, “I am damn proud of the body of work that all of us put together.” He stated that he was up for the challenge of following in the footsteps of legendary K-State coach Bill Snyder, and said, “I think we did a pretty damn good job here.” Klieman closed out the press conference by thanking everyone “for allowing the Kliemans to come into Manhattan and build something here.” As Klieman left the press conference, he and Director of Athletics Gene Taylor shared a hug.

*Highlights for Klieman at K-State include winning the 2022 Big 12 Championship, winning eight or more games for four straight years, and qualifying for a bowl game in six out of seven years. (The only year KSU did not make a bowl game was during the 2020 COVID season.)

K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor spoke after Klieman officially announced his retirement. Taylor was passionate that changes need to be made in the current era of college athletics. Taylor, a very close friend of Klieman, was very emotional when speaking to the media. “You just saw one of the greatest guys in this industry walk out of this room and retire from coaching, from the business that he loves,” Taylor said. He continued, “What really pisses me off is he is doing it because of where we are in this industry.” Taylor is referring to the new era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal, among other issues as well. “If we don’t get this thing fixed, and I am a part of that, as is every other AD in the country and conference commissioners, more really, really good guys like Chris Klieman are going to walk away from this business.”

When asked about the timeline of events and when he knew Klieman would retire, Gene Taylor said they met on Monday, where Klieman expressed he needed a few days to think about what he wanted to do. Taylor admitted he was somewhat caught off guard by the retirement talks because he thought they were meeting to discuss the bowl game and potential coaching/staffing changes.

Klieman told Taylor Wednesday morning he was going to retire, and Taylor admitted he had been emotional all day since their discussion. When asked about if Klieman would coach the bowl game, he said it is still being determined. He said he plans to meet with the players on Thursday and discuss it.

As for the rumors and speculation about a new head coach being named, Gene Taylor said at the press conference that he had not had any conversations prior to that moment. He said with the current landscape, the process will certainly move fast, but he wanted to wait and be respectful to Coach Klieman and let him announce his retirement before anything was officially done.

Lastly, Gene Taylor was very complimentary of Klieman’s seven-year run leading the Wildcats and thanked him for what he gave to the Kansas State program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764815483798.jpeg" alt="Chris Klieman officially announcing his retirement at a press conference on Wednesday in the Vanier Family Football Complex." />
 <figcaption>Chris Klieman officially announcing his retirement at a press conference on Wednesday in the Vanier Family Football Complex.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony Gorges JC/Little Apple PostKansas State Athletics announced on Wednesday that head football coach Chris Klieman was retiring. Klieman, who has spent seven years with the school and is 58 years old, stated that for the first time, he’s putting his family first and looks forward to spending more time with them moving forward. K-State held a press conference at the Vanier Family Football Complex on Wednesday afternoon where Klieman and Athletics Director Gene Taylor spoke about Klieman’s decision.A full room of media and K-State staff gave Coach Klieman a round of applause as he made his way to the podium. Klieman began his press conference by thanking everyone for being there. “It just goes to show me that the good guys win,” Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman said. “Doing things the right way, doing it with class and doing it with integrity is the right way. Guys, that’s the K-State way.”Klieman said despite it being an emotional day, “I am at peace.” He noted that colleagues, former players, and parents of current players reached out to him and congratulated him and his wife, Rhonda. Klieman stated one of the reasons he was in the business of coaching was to have that kind of impact.Chris Klieman previously served as head coach at North Dakota State before coming to Kansas State to lead the Wildcats. He held many other coaching positions after spending more than thirty years as a coach. “I am one of the lucky ones,” Klieman said. He pointed out that he spent fifteen years at his last two stops and noted that is very rare in the coaching profession. Current Kansas State Athletic Director (AD) Gene Taylor previously served as AD at North Dakota State and was the one who hired Klieman to be a head coach at both schools. Klieman expressed his thanks and gratitude to Taylor at the press conference.Speaking about his twelve years as a head coach (five at NDSU and seven at K-State), Klieman said, “I am damn proud of the body of work that all of us put together.” He stated that he was up for the challenge of following in the footsteps of legendary K-State coach Bill Snyder, and said, “I think we did a pretty damn good job here.” Klieman closed out the press conference by thanking everyone “for allowing the Kliemans to come into Manhattan and build something here.” As Klieman left the press conference, he and Director of Athletics Gene Taylor shared a hug.*Highlights for Klieman at K-State include winning the 2022 Big 12 Championship, winning eight or more games for four straight years, and qualifying for a bowl game in six out of seven years. (The only year KSU did not make a bowl game was during the 2020 COVID season.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764817709243.jpeg" alt="Gene Taylor speaking at Klieman's retirement press conference.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Gene Taylor speaking at Klieman's retirement press conference.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor spoke after Klieman officially announced his retirement. Taylor was passionate that changes need to be made in the current era of college athletics. Taylor, a very close friend of Klieman, was very emotional when speaking to the media. “You just saw one of the greatest guys in this industry walk out of this room and retire from coaching, from the business that he loves,” Taylor said. He continued, “What really pisses me off is he is doing it because of where we are in this industry.” Taylor is referring to the new era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal, among other issues as well. “If we don’t get this thing fixed, and I am a part of that, as is every other AD in the country and conference commissioners, more really, really good guys like Chris Klieman are going to walk away from this business.”When asked about the timeline of events and when he knew Klieman would retire, Gene Taylor said they met on Monday, where Klieman expressed he needed a few days to think about what he wanted to do. Taylor admitted he was somewhat caught off guard by the retirement talks because he thought they were meeting to discuss the bowl game and potential coaching/staffing changes.Klieman told Taylor Wednesday morning he was going to retire, and Taylor admitted he had been emotional all day since their discussion. When asked about if Klieman would coach the bowl game, he said it is still being determined. He said he plans to meet with the players on Thursday and discuss it.As for the rumors and speculation about a new head coach being named, Gene Taylor said at the press conference that he had not had any conversations prior to that moment. He said with the current landscape, the process will certainly move fast, but he wanted to wait and be respectful to Coach Klieman and let him announce his retirement before anything was officially done.Lastly, Gene Taylor was very complimentary of Klieman’s seven-year run leading the Wildcats and thanked him for what he gave to the Kansas State program.

K-State’s Chris Klieman and AD Gene Taylor discuss Klieman's decision to retire

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/football/roster/2026">Signing Day Roster</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/documents/2025/12/3/2026_Signing_Day_Release.pdf">2026 Signee Bios</a>

Thus far, K-State’s Class of 2026 is comprised of 19 high school prospects and four community-college transfers. Of the 23 overall players, there are 11 players on offense and nine players on offense in addition to two specialists and one athlete. There are five offensive linemen; four defensive tackles; three wide receivers; two running backs and safeties; and one athlete, defensive back, defensive end, kicker, linebacker, long snapper and quarterback.

K-State cast a wide net as the 23 signees hail from 10 different states and one foreign country. Texas leads the way with five signees – the second-straight season the Wildcats signed five Texans – four from Missouri, three from Oklahoma, two from Kansas, Colorado and Nebraska, and one apiece from Alabama, Illinois, Iowa and South Carolina.

Of the 23 signees on Wednesday, 17 are expected to enroll at K-State for the 2026 spring semester. The list includes: Dejon Ackerson Jr., Tucker Ashford, Lamarcus Barber, Adrian Bekibele, Andy Burburija, Keegan Collins, HD Davis, Garrick Dixon, Michael Graham Jr., Jordan Jensen, Kaprice Keith, Maxwell Lovett, Nick McClellan, Oliver Miller, Derrick Salley Jr., Miles Teodecki and Tanner West.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764796706868.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KSU release<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/football/roster/2026">Signing Day Roster</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/documents/2025/12/3/2026_Signing_Day_Release.pdf">2026 Signee Bios</a>Thus far, K-State’s Class of 2026 is comprised of 19 high school prospects and four community-college transfers. Of the 23 overall players, there are 11 players on offense and nine players on offense in addition to two specialists and one athlete. There are five offensive linemen; four defensive tackles; three wide receivers; two running backs and safeties; and one athlete, defensive back, defensive end, kicker, linebacker, long snapper and quarterback.K-State cast a wide net as the 23 signees hail from 10 different states and one foreign country. Texas leads the way with five signees – the second-straight season the Wildcats signed five Texans – four from Missouri, three from Oklahoma, two from Kansas, Colorado and Nebraska, and one apiece from Alabama, Illinois, Iowa and South Carolina.Of the 23 signees on Wednesday, 17 are expected to enroll at K-State for the 2026 spring semester. The list includes: Dejon Ackerson Jr., Tucker Ashford, Lamarcus Barber, Adrian Bekibele, Andy Burburija, Keegan Collins, HD Davis, Garrick Dixon, Michael Graham Jr., Jordan Jensen, Kaprice Keith, Maxwell Lovett, Nick McClellan, Oliver Miller, Derrick Salley Jr., Miles Teodecki and Tanner West.

K-State Signs 23 for 2026

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;After guiding the Wildcats to a 2022 Big 12 Championship and six bowl games in seven seasons, Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced his retirement from coaching on Wednesday afternoon.

“After many deep and thoughtful conversations with my family, we have decided that the time is right for me to retire from coaching,” said Klieman, the second-winningest coach in school history with 54 victories. “This decision was not taken lightly and was the culmination of many factors, including my own personal health. I absolutely love coaching the game of football and developing players into young men, but now is the time for me to step away and spend more time with Rhonda and our three kids. I truly am thankful to Gene Taylor for trusting me with this program in 2018, and we have accomplished many great things including winning the 2022 Big 12 Championship. K-State will always be a special part of our family’s story, and we will forever be Wildcats.”

The Wildcats’ 54 wins during Klieman’s seven-year tenure are the most among active Big 12 programs. K-State’s six total bowl appearances are tied for the most in the conference, while the Wildcats are one of two Big 12 programs to advance to the postseason each of the last five seasons. Additionally, Klieman kept the Governor’s Cup in Manhattan for seven-straight years and extended K-State’s winning streak over its in-state rival to 17-consecutive seasons.

“This has been an emotional day for myself, my family and Coach Klieman. Our friendship and family go back to when we first started working together at North Dakota State,” athletics director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;said. “Chris Klieman has built a program and culture that embodies what it means to be a K-Stater. Following a legend was no easy task, and he quickly established himself as one of the best coaches in the Big 12 Conference and one of the most successful in our program’s history. He is a special person, and we have been fortunate to have him leading the young men in our program and being a first-class representative of Kansas State University. I will miss being able to work with Coach Klieman on a daily basis, and it has been an honor to do so the last several years. We wish him, Rhonda and the kids all the success and happiness they desire as they enter this next phase of their lives.”

“Coach Klieman is a person of tremendous character, and I appreciate his passion for his players and their success,” University President&nbsp;Dr. Richard Linton&nbsp;said. “Chris is a K-State Wildcat to his core. I am grateful for his dedication and leadership of our football program, and I wish Chris and his family well.”

Instilling a culture of selflessness, discipline, toughness and commitment during his time guiding the Wildcats, Klieman guided K-State to eight or more wins in five of his seven seasons, including five victories over teams ranked in the top 10 of the AP Top 25 – the most of any active Big 12 program since 2019 – while they have eight wins over top-20 teams since 2019 – tied for the second most among current Big 12 teams. He led the Wildcats to 10 wins in 2022 and nine wins in both 2023 and 2024, the longest streak of nine or more wins since the 1990s.

Klieman presided over 26 First Team All-American designations and eight total All-Americans in Felix Anudike-Uzomah (2021, 2022), Phillip Brooks (2020), Cooper Beebe (2022, 2023), Malik Knowles (2021, 2022), Randen Plattner (2022, 2023), Ben Sinnott (2023), Deuce Vaughn (2020, 2021, 2022) and Joshua Youngblood (2019).

Under Klieman’s guidance, Vaughn became the second player in school history to earn consecutive Consensus All-America honors when he picked up the accolades in 2021 and 2022, while Beebe was the first offensive lineman to be named a Consensus All-American when he earned the honor in 2023.

Klieman also overall 104 total All-Big 12 accolades with 2025 honors pending. Among those were the 2019 Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year (Youngblood), 2020 Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (Vaughn), 2021 Defensive Lineman of the Year (Anudike-Uzomah), 2022 Big 12 Defensive Player and Defensive Lineman of the Year (Anudike-Uzomah), 2022 and 2023 Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year (Beebe) and 2024 Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year (Bredan Mott).

Not only has Klieman’s tenure produced success on the field, but with his mantra of “how you do one thing is how you do everything” has come success in the classroom. Over Klieman’s first six seasons, K-State produced a combined 212 Academic All-Big 12 honors – the second most in the conference during that timeframe – which included a school record 45 in 2023. Additionally, the Wildcats boasted three National Football Foundation National Scholar-Athletes under Klieman in Adam Holtorf (2019), Adrian Martinez (2022) and Beebe (2023).

A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Klieman began his career as a graduate assistant as his alma mater, Northern Iowa, and made stops at Western Illinois, Kansas, Missouri State, Loras College and North Dakota State. He was a three-time All-Gateway Conference defensive back at Northern Iowa and four-year letterwinner from 1986 to 1990. He graduated from UNI in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in health education and a master’s degree in physical education in 1992.

Klieman and his wife, Rhonda, are parents of two sons, Devin and Colby, and one daughter, Haley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764793596826.png" alt="Photo by Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;After guiding the Wildcats to a 2022 Big 12 Championship and six bowl games in seven seasons, Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced his retirement from coaching on Wednesday afternoon.“After many deep and thoughtful conversations with my family, we have decided that the time is right for me to retire from coaching,” said Klieman, the second-winningest coach in school history with 54 victories. “This decision was not taken lightly and was the culmination of many factors, including my own personal health. I absolutely love coaching the game of football and developing players into young men, but now is the time for me to step away and spend more time with Rhonda and our three kids. I truly am thankful to Gene Taylor for trusting me with this program in 2018, and we have accomplished many great things including winning the 2022 Big 12 Championship. K-State will always be a special part of our family’s story, and we will forever be Wildcats.”The Wildcats’ 54 wins during Klieman’s seven-year tenure are the most among active Big 12 programs. K-State’s six total bowl appearances are tied for the most in the conference, while the Wildcats are one of two Big 12 programs to advance to the postseason each of the last five seasons. Additionally, Klieman kept the Governor’s Cup in Manhattan for seven-straight years and extended K-State’s winning streak over its in-state rival to 17-consecutive seasons.“This has been an emotional day for myself, my family and Coach Klieman. Our friendship and family go back to when we first started working together at North Dakota State,” athletics director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;said. “Chris Klieman has built a program and culture that embodies what it means to be a K-Stater. Following a legend was no easy task, and he quickly established himself as one of the best coaches in the Big 12 Conference and one of the most successful in our program’s history. He is a special person, and we have been fortunate to have him leading the young men in our program and being a first-class representative of Kansas State University. I will miss being able to work with Coach Klieman on a daily basis, and it has been an honor to do so the last several years. We wish him, Rhonda and the kids all the success and happiness they desire as they enter this next phase of their lives.”“Coach Klieman is a person of tremendous character, and I appreciate his passion for his players and their success,” University President&nbsp;Dr. Richard Linton&nbsp;said. “Chris is a K-State Wildcat to his core. I am grateful for his dedication and leadership of our football program, and I wish Chris and his family well.”Instilling a culture of selflessness, discipline, toughness and commitment during his time guiding the Wildcats, Klieman guided K-State to eight or more wins in five of his seven seasons, including five victories over teams ranked in the top 10 of the AP Top 25 – the most of any active Big 12 program since 2019 – while they have eight wins over top-20 teams since 2019 – tied for the second most among current Big 12 teams. He led the Wildcats to 10 wins in 2022 and nine wins in both 2023 and 2024, the longest streak of nine or more wins since the 1990s.Klieman presided over 26 First Team All-American designations and eight total All-Americans in Felix Anudike-Uzomah (2021, 2022), Phillip Brooks (2020), Cooper Beebe (2022, 2023), Malik Knowles (2021, 2022), Randen Plattner (2022, 2023), Ben Sinnott (2023), Deuce Vaughn (2020, 2021, 2022) and Joshua Youngblood (2019).Under Klieman’s guidance, Vaughn became the second player in school history to earn consecutive Consensus All-America honors when he picked up the accolades in 2021 and 2022, while Beebe was the first offensive lineman to be named a Consensus All-American when he earned the honor in 2023.Klieman also overall 104 total All-Big 12 accolades with 2025 honors pending. Among those were the 2019 Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year (Youngblood), 2020 Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (Vaughn), 2021 Defensive Lineman of the Year (Anudike-Uzomah), 2022 Big 12 Defensive Player and Defensive Lineman of the Year (Anudike-Uzomah), 2022 and 2023 Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year (Beebe) and 2024 Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year (Bredan Mott).Not only has Klieman’s tenure produced success on the field, but with his mantra of “how you do one thing is how you do everything” has come success in the classroom. Over Klieman’s first six seasons, K-State produced a combined 212 Academic All-Big 12 honors – the second most in the conference during that timeframe – which included a school record 45 in 2023. Additionally, the Wildcats boasted three National Football Foundation National Scholar-Athletes under Klieman in Adam Holtorf (2019), Adrian Martinez (2022) and Beebe (2023).A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Klieman began his career as a graduate assistant as his alma mater, Northern Iowa, and made stops at Western Illinois, Kansas, Missouri State, Loras College and North Dakota State. He was a three-time All-Gateway Conference defensive back at Northern Iowa and four-year letterwinner from 1986 to 1990. He graduated from UNI in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in health education and a master’s degree in physical education in 1992.Klieman and his wife, Rhonda, are parents of two sons, Devin and Colby, and one daughter, Haley.

K-State’s Chris Klieman Announces Retirement

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Solo Ball scored 17 points, Braylon Mullins also had 17 in a breakout performance by the freshman guard, and fifth-ranked UConn overcame a seven-point deficit in the second half to beat No. 21 Kansas 61-56 on Tuesday night in Allen Fieldhouse.

Eric Reibe added 12 points and Alex Karaban scored 11 for the Huskies (7-1), who defeated the Jayhawks (6-3) for the first time in five tries while picking up their third — and arguably most impressive — win over a ranked opponent already this season.

Kansas had a chance to tie the game late after Silas Demary Jr. missed a short jumper. But rather than attempt a tying 3-pointer, the Jayhawks' Jamari McDowell drove to the rim and had his shot blocked by Mullins with just under 10 seconds to go.

Mullins was fouled and made a pair of free throws to put away the game.

Flory Bidunga had 11 points and 12 rebounds to lead Kansas. Melvin Council Jr. added 12 points and Elmark Jackson scored 11.

Both&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-darryn-peterson-442e30890932697161787fbe8c8e6ade">teams were missing stars</a>: Kansas was without five-star prospect Darryn Peterson for the seventh time because of a lingering hamstring injury, and UConn played without big man Tarris Reed Jr. because of his own ankle injury.

Still, the showdown between storied programs that each claim six national championships lived up to the hype.

The Jayhawks, coming off three wins without Peterson at the Players Era Festival, leaned into the same formula of tough defense and aggressive rebounding, while the Huskies tried to get into the open court and run. And through the first 20 minutes, Kansas was able to set the tone, threatening a double-digit lead on a couple of occasions and leading 33-28 at the break.

The Huskies clawed their way back into the game behind some defense of their own. They held the Jayhawks to two field goals over the first 12-plus minutes of the second half, and Mullins finally helped UConn regain the lead with 10 minutes to go.

Ball helped stretch it to 55-49 before back-to-back baskets by Bidunga and Council tightened it up again.

Eventually, the Huskies had enough to hold on down the stretch.

UConn plays East Texas A&amp;M on Friday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764733015325.png" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Solo Ball scored 17 points, Braylon Mullins also had 17 in a breakout performance by the freshman guard, and fifth-ranked UConn overcame a seven-point deficit in the second half to beat No. 21 Kansas 61-56 on Tuesday night in Allen Fieldhouse.Eric Reibe added 12 points and Alex Karaban scored 11 for the Huskies (7-1), who defeated the Jayhawks (6-3) for the first time in five tries while picking up their third — and arguably most impressive — win over a ranked opponent already this season.Kansas had a chance to tie the game late after Silas Demary Jr. missed a short jumper. But rather than attempt a tying 3-pointer, the Jayhawks' Jamari McDowell drove to the rim and had his shot blocked by Mullins with just under 10 seconds to go.Mullins was fouled and made a pair of free throws to put away the game.Flory Bidunga had 11 points and 12 rebounds to lead Kansas. Melvin Council Jr. added 12 points and Elmark Jackson scored 11.Both&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-darryn-peterson-442e30890932697161787fbe8c8e6ade">teams were missing stars</a>: Kansas was without five-star prospect Darryn Peterson for the seventh time because of a lingering hamstring injury, and UConn played without big man Tarris Reed Jr. because of his own ankle injury.Still, the showdown between storied programs that each claim six national championships lived up to the hype.The Jayhawks, coming off three wins without Peterson at the Players Era Festival, leaned into the same formula of tough defense and aggressive rebounding, while the Huskies tried to get into the open court and run. And through the first 20 minutes, Kansas was able to set the tone, threatening a double-digit lead on a couple of occasions and leading 33-28 at the break.The Huskies clawed their way back into the game behind some defense of their own. They held the Jayhawks to two field goals over the first 12-plus minutes of the second half, and Mullins finally helped UConn regain the lead with 10 minutes to go.Ball helped stretch it to 55-49 before back-to-back baskets by Bidunga and Council tightened it up again.Eventually, the Huskies had enough to hold on down the stretch.<h2>Up next</h2>UConn plays East Texas A&amp;M on Friday night.

🏀 Mullins' breakout performance lifts UConn over KU at Allen Fieldhouse

MANHATTAN, Kansas (AP) — Sam Towns scored a career-high 27 points shooting 9 of 14, and Bowling Green upset Kansas State 82-66 on Monday in a game the Falcons led from the start.

It was Bowling Green's first win over a Power 4 opponent since beating Virginia Tech on the road, 72-71, on Nov. 12, 2005.

Towns, who has played at least a half-dozen college basketball games a season since his career started at Ohio in 2020-21, shot 3 of 5 from 3-point range and made all six of his foul shots.

Javontae Campbell and Javon Ruffin each scored 17 points for the Falcons (6-2). Bowling Green shot 45% (28 of 62) overall and 46% (12 of 26) from 3-point range. Kansas State shot just 26% (6 of 23) from 3.

David Castillo scored 22 points and P.J. Haggerty 17 for the Wildcats (5-3).

Khamari McGriff had a dunk and Haggerty had a layup to bring Kansas State within 33-31 with 5:39 left before halftime. Bowling Green responded by outscoring the Wildcats 16-4 to close the half and went to the break up 49-35.

The Jayhawks only got within single digits twice (63-52 with 8:12 left and 63-55 with 7:21 to go) after halftime.

It was the first meeting between the teams.

Bowling Green is off to its best start since beginning the 2020-21 season 9-2.

Bowling Green hosts Utah Valley on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764641216054.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kansas (AP) — Sam Towns scored a career-high 27 points shooting 9 of 14, and Bowling Green upset Kansas State 82-66 on Monday in a game the Falcons led from the start.It was Bowling Green's first win over a Power 4 opponent since beating Virginia Tech on the road, 72-71, on Nov. 12, 2005.Towns, who has played at least a half-dozen college basketball games a season since his career started at Ohio in 2020-21, shot 3 of 5 from 3-point range and made all six of his foul shots.Javontae Campbell and Javon Ruffin each scored 17 points for the Falcons (6-2). Bowling Green shot 45% (28 of 62) overall and 46% (12 of 26) from 3-point range. Kansas State shot just 26% (6 of 23) from 3.David Castillo scored 22 points and P.J. Haggerty 17 for the Wildcats (5-3).Khamari McGriff had a dunk and Haggerty had a layup to bring Kansas State within 33-31 with 5:39 left before halftime. Bowling Green responded by outscoring the Wildcats 16-4 to close the half and went to the break up 49-35.The Jayhawks only got within single digits twice (63-52 with 8:12 left and 63-55 with 7:21 to go) after halftime.It was the first meeting between the teams.Bowling Green is off to its best start since beginning the 2020-21 season 9-2.<h2>Up Next</h2>Bowling Green hosts Utah Valley on Saturday.

🏀 Towns scores 27 points to lead Bowling Green past Kansas State

The Manhattan Indians shut out Olathe Northwest 27-0 to win the Class 6A State Football Championship in Emporia on Saturday..

The Indians finished the season with a final record of 11-2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573908199504.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Manhattan Indians shut out Olathe Northwest 27-0 to win the Class 6A State Football Championship in Emporia on Saturday..The Indians finished the season with a final record of 11-2.

Manhattan wins the Class 6A State Football Championship

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Joe Jackson rushed for 142 yards and three touchdowns as Kansas State defeated Colorado 24-14 and earned bowl eligibility for the fifth straight season on a cold and blustery day. The game-time temperature was 32 degrees with a wind chill of 24.

Quarterback Avery Johnson was 10-of-17 for 115 yards in difficult conditions for Kansas State (6-6, 5-4 Big 12).

Kaidon Salter was 14-of-25 for 172 yards for Colorado (3-9, 1-8), who got two rushing touchdowns from Micah Welch.

Jackson scored his second touchdown of the day from 1-yard out with 4:32 left in the third quarter. The score capped a 56-yard drive.

The Wildcats then made it a two-score game with a 35-yard field goal by Luis Rodriguez. The Wildcats stalled at the Colorado 19-yard line, but they burned 6:43 off the clock.

Welch's second rushing touchdown of the game capped a nine-play, 75-yard drive and brought the Buffaloes to within 17-14.

But Jackson's third touchdown, a 17-yard scamper with 2:34 left, extended the lead to 10 points.

K-State used nearly half the first quarter to take a 7-0 lead on a 4-yard touchdown run by Jackson. The Wildcats used 7:13 for a 13-play drive.

Neither team did much offensively for most of the rest of the half until Colorado marched 84 yards in 11 plays for the tying touchdown.

Welch hurdled over the line from the 1 for the score. Colorado finished the half with 162 yards of total offense. K-State finished with 114 yards, with 74 of those coming on its opening drive.

Colorado: The Buffaloes didn't look like a team with nothing to play for. They outgained the Wildcats 323-321.

Kansas State: The Wildcats struggled to find its rhythm on offense. A week after gaining 574 yards, they gained just 321.

Colorado's season is done. Kansas State will await a bowl invitation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764453657023.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Joe Jackson rushed for 142 yards and three touchdowns as Kansas State defeated Colorado 24-14 and earned bowl eligibility for the fifth straight season on a cold and blustery day. The game-time temperature was 32 degrees with a wind chill of 24.Quarterback Avery Johnson was 10-of-17 for 115 yards in difficult conditions for Kansas State (6-6, 5-4 Big 12).Kaidon Salter was 14-of-25 for 172 yards for Colorado (3-9, 1-8), who got two rushing touchdowns from Micah Welch.Jackson scored his second touchdown of the day from 1-yard out with 4:32 left in the third quarter. The score capped a 56-yard drive.The Wildcats then made it a two-score game with a 35-yard field goal by Luis Rodriguez. The Wildcats stalled at the Colorado 19-yard line, but they burned 6:43 off the clock.Welch's second rushing touchdown of the game capped a nine-play, 75-yard drive and brought the Buffaloes to within 17-14.But Jackson's third touchdown, a 17-yard scamper with 2:34 left, extended the lead to 10 points.K-State used nearly half the first quarter to take a 7-0 lead on a 4-yard touchdown run by Jackson. The Wildcats used 7:13 for a 13-play drive.Neither team did much offensively for most of the rest of the half until Colorado marched 84 yards in 11 plays for the tying touchdown.Welch hurdled over the line from the 1 for the score. Colorado finished the half with 162 yards of total offense. K-State finished with 114 yards, with 74 of those coming on its opening drive.THE TAKEAWAY:Colorado: The Buffaloes didn't look like a team with nothing to play for. They outgained the Wildcats 323-321.Kansas State: The Wildcats struggled to find its rhythm on offense. A week after gaining 574 yards, they gained just 321.UP NEXT:Colorado's season is done. Kansas State will await a bowl invitation.

🏈 Jackson's three rushing touchdowns leads K-State to bowl eligibility

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Devon Dampier threw for 253 yards and three touchdowns, Elijah Davis returned an interception 97 yards for another score, and No. 14 Utah came from behind to beat Kansas 31-21 on Friday and keep its slim Big 12 championship hopes alive.

Larry Simmons caught two TD passes, Wayshon Parker ran for 95 yards and Utah (10-2, 7-2, No. 13 CFP) picked off Jalon Daniels three times in the final game of his college career, helping the Utes reach the 10-win mark for the third time in the last five years.

More importantly, the Utes can still play for a conference title. They need Arizona State to beat Arizona on Friday night, then Texas Tech to lose to West Virginia and BYU to beat UCF on Saturday — a long-shot scenario, to be sure, but a reason to turn on TVs.

“We hope 10-2 gets us to what we want to do, but from my standpoint, we were not happy with how last season went," said Dampier, who transferred in from New Mexico after the Utes had finished 5-7 in their first season in the Big 12.

“Just happy it all came together,” he said. “We finished strong, and it was all that work we put in.”

Utah won despite allowing 290 yards rushing, one week after beating Kansas State after allowing 472 on the ground.

“It took a while to get going, and really get into a rhythm. We started to get some things going in the second half,” Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said. “We kept finding ways to make plays, stay in the game, and that's kind of the way it went in the end.”

Daniels finished with 187 yards passing and a touchdown, and also rushed for a TD, though his turnovers led to a smattering of boos from Kansas fans, many of whom have endured the QB's highs and lows over the past six seasons.

Daniel Hishaw Jr. had 107 yards rushing and a touchdown for the Jayhawks (5-7, 3-6). Leshon Williams ran for 104.

“Obviously as a team we didn’t play well enough to win the football game,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said.

Utah looked as if it might turn Senior Day into a rout in the opening minutes, but the Kansas defense — which had let Leipold's team down so often this season — finally seemed to find its fight. The Jayhawks bottled up the Utes, who had been averaging 279.6 yards on the ground, and early on Dampier was having little success through the air, twice misfiring on fourth-down attempts.

Utah led just 10-7 at halftime in a game it desperately needed to win.

The Jayhawks briefly pulled ahead after the break, when Whittingham went for it on fourth down rather than kick a field goal on a cold, blustery day. Kansas made a stop, drove 67 yards, and Daniels' scoring sneak gave them a 14-10 advantage.

But the momentum swung for good on his two red-zone blunders early in the fourth quarter.

First, Daniels was picked off while trying to throw the ball out of the end zone, and Utah needed just four plays to go 80 yards for a go-ahead touchdown. Then, after Kansas marched downfield again, Daniels was picked off by Davis near the goal line, and the junior cornerback returned it 97 yards to give the Utes a 24-14 lead with 7:52 remaining.

Utah wound up scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter to put the game away.

“We had two little hiccups throughout the season, but I'm really proud of how our guys have played, bouncing back from adversity, whether it's after a loss or in game,” Utah safety Jackson Bennee said. “It's been a good season. We'll see what happens.”

Utah only ran for 164 yards but finished with 417 in total offense, and that was enough to make Kansas pay for its mistakes.

Kansas started the season 4-2 before a loss to Texas Tech. It wound up losing five of its last six games.

Utah watches how the Big 12 race plays out on Saturday.

Kansas watches bowl season on TV for the second straight year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764379266042.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Devon Dampier threw for 253 yards and three touchdowns, Elijah Davis returned an interception 97 yards for another score, and No. 14 Utah came from behind to beat Kansas 31-21 on Friday and keep its slim Big 12 championship hopes alive.Larry Simmons caught two TD passes, Wayshon Parker ran for 95 yards and Utah (10-2, 7-2, No. 13 CFP) picked off Jalon Daniels three times in the final game of his college career, helping the Utes reach the 10-win mark for the third time in the last five years.More importantly, the Utes can still play for a conference title. They need Arizona State to beat Arizona on Friday night, then Texas Tech to lose to West Virginia and BYU to beat UCF on Saturday — a long-shot scenario, to be sure, but a reason to turn on TVs.“We hope 10-2 gets us to what we want to do, but from my standpoint, we were not happy with how last season went," said Dampier, who transferred in from New Mexico after the Utes had finished 5-7 in their first season in the Big 12.“Just happy it all came together,” he said. “We finished strong, and it was all that work we put in.”Utah won despite allowing 290 yards rushing, one week after beating Kansas State after allowing 472 on the ground.“It took a while to get going, and really get into a rhythm. We started to get some things going in the second half,” Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said. “We kept finding ways to make plays, stay in the game, and that's kind of the way it went in the end.”Daniels finished with 187 yards passing and a touchdown, and also rushed for a TD, though his turnovers led to a smattering of boos from Kansas fans, many of whom have endured the QB's highs and lows over the past six seasons.Daniel Hishaw Jr. had 107 yards rushing and a touchdown for the Jayhawks (5-7, 3-6). Leshon Williams ran for 104.“Obviously as a team we didn’t play well enough to win the football game,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said.Utah looked as if it might turn Senior Day into a rout in the opening minutes, but the Kansas defense — which had let Leipold's team down so often this season — finally seemed to find its fight. The Jayhawks bottled up the Utes, who had been averaging 279.6 yards on the ground, and early on Dampier was having little success through the air, twice misfiring on fourth-down attempts.Utah led just 10-7 at halftime in a game it desperately needed to win.The Jayhawks briefly pulled ahead after the break, when Whittingham went for it on fourth down rather than kick a field goal on a cold, blustery day. Kansas made a stop, drove 67 yards, and Daniels' scoring sneak gave them a 14-10 advantage.But the momentum swung for good on his two red-zone blunders early in the fourth quarter.First, Daniels was picked off while trying to throw the ball out of the end zone, and Utah needed just four plays to go 80 yards for a go-ahead touchdown. Then, after Kansas marched downfield again, Daniels was picked off by Davis near the goal line, and the junior cornerback returned it 97 yards to give the Utes a 24-14 lead with 7:52 remaining.Utah wound up scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter to put the game away.“We had two little hiccups throughout the season, but I'm really proud of how our guys have played, bouncing back from adversity, whether it's after a loss or in game,” Utah safety Jackson Bennee said. “It's been a good season. We'll see what happens.”<h2>The takeaway</h2>Utah only ran for 164 yards but finished with 417 in total offense, and that was enough to make Kansas pay for its mistakes.Kansas started the season 4-2 before a loss to Texas Tech. It wound up losing five of its last six games.<h2>Up next</h2>Utah watches how the Big 12 race plays out on Saturday.Kansas watches bowl season on TV for the second straight year.

🏈 Utah rallies to beat KU and keep slim Big 12 championship hopes alive

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys still face long odds in trying to rally for a spot in the playoffs.

They won't be short on confidence with a win over last season's Super Bowl runner-up just four days after beating the defending champs.

Prescott threw for two touchdowns, Malik Davis sprinted 43 yards for a score and the Cowboys overcame two fourth down TD throws from Patrick Mahomes in a 31-28 Thanksgiving Day victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday.

CeeDee Lamb scored the first Dallas touchdown and finished with 112 yards on seven catches after drops plagued the star receiver in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eagles-cowboys-score-c327c03d384190ed8a067c9936f3cab3">24-21 victory over reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia</a>.

The Cowboys (6-5-1) have won three straight and dropped the defending AFC champion Chiefs (6-6) back to .500 in a matchup of playoff-chasing teams.

Dallas is 3-0 since 24-year-old defensive end&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cowboys-kneeland-schottenheimer-04061190c64246d3c8ce90ef025f501b">Marshawn Kneeland</a>&nbsp;was found dead of an apparent suicide during the club's open week. The Cowboys came back from the emotion-filled break with a 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

“On top of where we put ourselves right before these games and just the place that we’re in, having to get these wins against two elite teams,” Prescott said. “I mean, two teams that played in the Super Bowl last year. Last year’s last year, but you’re talking about two organizations that obviously know how to win and we just beat them both in two great games.

“On top of everything that we've been through.”

Mahomes had four touchdown passes in his first professional game at the home of the Cowboys, where he played three times for Texas Tech not far from his East Texas roots.

“They’re the same desperation that we are and they play better over four quarters than we did,” said Mahomes, who threw for 261 yards and was sacked three times, twice by Jadeveon Clowney. “So even though we have good plays here and there, we have be more consistent at the end of the day.”

Travis Kelce caught Mahomes' first fourth-down TD toss on a 2-yarder, and Rashee Rice's second scoring catch came on fourth-and-3 early in the fourth quarter.

Kansas City was down 10 when Mahomes was almost tripped in the backfield by Quinnen Williams but kept his feet and found Xavier Worthy wide-open down the field for 42 yards, setting up a 10-yard scoring toss to Hollywood Brown with 3:27 remaining.

Prescott and company didn't give Mahomes another chance.

After two pass interference penalties gave Dallas first downs, Prescott hit George Pickens for 13 yards and a clinching first down at the two-minute warning. Prescott knelt three times after that.

The Chiefs had five pass interference penalties, one that was declined, and another defensive holding that gave Dallas a first down. Kansas City finished with 10 penalties for 119 yards.

“Bottom line is we’re having too many penalties, and we have to make sure to take care of that,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “No excuses with it. We’re going to clean it up.”

Rice had eight catches for 92 yards, his first score coming on a 27-yard catch-and-run on the sideline two plays after Prescott was intercepted by Jaylen Watson on the first Dallas possession.

Davis had just three carries, but his long run gave Dallas its first lead at 17-14 late in the second quarter. Lead running back Javonte Williams scored on a 3-yard catch early in the fourth quarter, and Pickens' catch on a 2-point conversion put Dallas back in front 28-21.

The Cowboys were 10th in the NFC entering the game, same as the Chiefs in the AFC coming off nine consecutive AFC West titles. The schedule doesn't get much easier, although two of the next four opponents — all playoff teams from a year ago — aren't in the postseason picture at the moment.

“We've got to continue with the same mentality,” Lamb said. “Obviously it's been a short week. Now we get a little time to rest, a regular week so to speak. We get our bodies back, relax, build, grow, get better and on to next week.”

Chiefs: The Chiefs lost two offensive linemen to injuries after beginning the game without RG Trey Smith, who was inactive because of an ankle injury. RT Jawaan Taylor injured an elbow, and rookie LT Josh Simmons went out with a wrist injury. ... S Bryan Cook injured an ankle in the first half.

Cowboys: CB Caelen Carson, who had started the previous two games, was inactive after being listed as questionable. He was added to the injury report during the week. ... CB DaRon Bland injured a foot in the second half.

Chiefs: Play host to Houston in prime time on Dec. 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764292517419.png" alt="Photo courtesy Dallas Cowboys" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Dallas Cowboys</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys still face long odds in trying to rally for a spot in the playoffs.They won't be short on confidence with a win over last season's Super Bowl runner-up just four days after beating the defending champs.Prescott threw for two touchdowns, Malik Davis sprinted 43 yards for a score and the Cowboys overcame two fourth down TD throws from Patrick Mahomes in a 31-28 Thanksgiving Day victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday.CeeDee Lamb scored the first Dallas touchdown and finished with 112 yards on seven catches after drops plagued the star receiver in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eagles-cowboys-score-c327c03d384190ed8a067c9936f3cab3">24-21 victory over reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia</a>.The Cowboys (6-5-1) have won three straight and dropped the defending AFC champion Chiefs (6-6) back to .500 in a matchup of playoff-chasing teams.Dallas is 3-0 since 24-year-old defensive end&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cowboys-kneeland-schottenheimer-04061190c64246d3c8ce90ef025f501b">Marshawn Kneeland</a>&nbsp;was found dead of an apparent suicide during the club's open week. The Cowboys came back from the emotion-filled break with a 33-16 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.“On top of where we put ourselves right before these games and just the place that we’re in, having to get these wins against two elite teams,” Prescott said. “I mean, two teams that played in the Super Bowl last year. Last year’s last year, but you’re talking about two organizations that obviously know how to win and we just beat them both in two great games.“On top of everything that we've been through.”Mahomes had four touchdown passes in his first professional game at the home of the Cowboys, where he played three times for Texas Tech not far from his East Texas roots.“They’re the same desperation that we are and they play better over four quarters than we did,” said Mahomes, who threw for 261 yards and was sacked three times, twice by Jadeveon Clowney. “So even though we have good plays here and there, we have be more consistent at the end of the day.”Travis Kelce caught Mahomes' first fourth-down TD toss on a 2-yarder, and Rashee Rice's second scoring catch came on fourth-and-3 early in the fourth quarter.Kansas City was down 10 when Mahomes was almost tripped in the backfield by Quinnen Williams but kept his feet and found Xavier Worthy wide-open down the field for 42 yards, setting up a 10-yard scoring toss to Hollywood Brown with 3:27 remaining.Prescott and company didn't give Mahomes another chance.After two pass interference penalties gave Dallas first downs, Prescott hit George Pickens for 13 yards and a clinching first down at the two-minute warning. Prescott knelt three times after that.The Chiefs had five pass interference penalties, one that was declined, and another defensive holding that gave Dallas a first down. Kansas City finished with 10 penalties for 119 yards.“Bottom line is we’re having too many penalties, and we have to make sure to take care of that,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “No excuses with it. We’re going to clean it up.”Rice had eight catches for 92 yards, his first score coming on a 27-yard catch-and-run on the sideline two plays after Prescott was intercepted by Jaylen Watson on the first Dallas possession.Davis had just three carries, but his long run gave Dallas its first lead at 17-14 late in the second quarter. Lead running back Javonte Williams scored on a 3-yard catch early in the fourth quarter, and Pickens' catch on a 2-point conversion put Dallas back in front 28-21.The Cowboys were 10th in the NFC entering the game, same as the Chiefs in the AFC coming off nine consecutive AFC West titles. The schedule doesn't get much easier, although two of the next four opponents — all playoff teams from a year ago — aren't in the postseason picture at the moment.“We've got to continue with the same mentality,” Lamb said. “Obviously it's been a short week. Now we get a little time to rest, a regular week so to speak. We get our bodies back, relax, build, grow, get better and on to next week.”<h2>Injuries</h2>Chiefs: The Chiefs lost two offensive linemen to injuries after beginning the game without RG Trey Smith, who was inactive because of an ankle injury. RT Jawaan Taylor injured an elbow, and rookie LT Josh Simmons went out with a wrist injury. ... S Bryan Cook injured an ankle in the first half.Cowboys: CB Caelen Carson, who had started the previous two games, was inactive after being listed as questionable. He was added to the injury report during the week. ... CB DaRon Bland injured a foot in the second half.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: Play host to Houston in prime time on Dec. 7.

🏈 Cowboys overcome Mahomes' 4th down magic in Thanksgiving win over Chiefs

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Mevlin Council Jr. and Elmarko Jackson each scored 17 points and Kansas defeated previously unbeaten No. 17 Tennessee 81-76 in the third-place game of the Players Era Championship on Wednesday night.

Tre White added 14 points for Kansas (6-2) before fouling out and Florey Bidunga scored 13.

Nata Ament led Tennessee (7-1) with 20 points. Jaylen Carey and Ja’Kobe Gillespie each scored 11 points and J.P. Estrella added 10.

Kansas, which trailed most of the second half, took the lead with 5:36 remaining on Paul Mbiya's layup and extended the lead to four points at 68-64 on a driving layup by Jackson with 5:08 left.

The Jayhawks extended the lead to seven points at 75-68 with 2:02 left before Tennessee cut the lead to 75-73 with 56 seconds left. Bidunga made two free throws and stole a pass with 20 seconds left, and the Jayhawks held on for the win.

With 15:06 remaining the second half, Tennessee had built a 12-point lead. But, the Jayhawks ran off eight straight points on two 3-pointers and two free throws by Jackson to pull within 55-51 with 12:09 remaining.

Tennessee built back a six-point advantage with 8:21 left, but the Jayhawks’ Melvin Councill Jr. made two layups and two free throws to tie the game at 62-62 with 7:25 left.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764209949520.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — Mevlin Council Jr. and Elmarko Jackson each scored 17 points and Kansas defeated previously unbeaten No. 17 Tennessee 81-76 in the third-place game of the Players Era Championship on Wednesday night.Tre White added 14 points for Kansas (6-2) before fouling out and Florey Bidunga scored 13.Nata Ament led Tennessee (7-1) with 20 points. Jaylen Carey and Ja’Kobe Gillespie each scored 11 points and J.P. Estrella added 10.Kansas, which trailed most of the second half, took the lead with 5:36 remaining on Paul Mbiya's layup and extended the lead to four points at 68-64 on a driving layup by Jackson with 5:08 left.The Jayhawks extended the lead to seven points at 75-68 with 2:02 left before Tennessee cut the lead to 75-73 with 56 seconds left. Bidunga made two free throws and stole a pass with 20 seconds left, and the Jayhawks held on for the win.With 15:06 remaining the second half, Tennessee had built a 12-point lead. But, the Jayhawks ran off eight straight points on two 3-pointers and two free throws by Jackson to pull within 55-51 with 12:09 remaining.Tennessee built back a six-point advantage with 8:21 left, but the Jayhawks’ Melvin Councill Jr. made two layups and two free throws to tie the game at 62-62 with 7:25 left.<h2>Up next</h2>Tennessee: At Syracuse on Tuesday.Kansas: Hosts Connecticut on Tuesday.

🏀 Council, Jackson lead KU to win over Tennessee at Players Era Championship

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Reed Bailey scored 21 points and No. 25 Indiana limited the nation's leading scorer, P.J. Haggerty, to 12 below his average in an 86-69 home win over Kansas State on Tuesday night.

The senior Bailey did most of his work at the line, where he hit 13 of 15 free throws. Haggerty, who averaged 28 per game, finished 7 of 17 from the field for 16 points and had six turnovers.

Tayton Conerway added 19 for the Hoosiers (6-0). Lamar Wilkerson scored 14 and Trent Sisley had 12 points.

Indiana jumped out to a 20-4 lead with five different shooters hitting 3s. Despite 13 first-half turnovers, Kansas State rallied to a 26-24 deficit. That's as close as the visitors would come. Indiana responded with a 13-3 spurt to take a 39-27 halftime lead, then continued the momentum after the break with a 10-2 run for a 49-29 lead.

The Wildcats (5-2) had averaged 92.8 points in their previous six games. C.J. Jones had 15 points and Nate Johnson 13 for Kansas State.

The Hoosiers' usual leading scorer had a rough night. Senior forward Tucker DeVries, who averages 19.2 points, scored just nine.

The Wildcats host Bowling Green on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764127939446.png" alt="Photo Indiana Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Indiana Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Reed Bailey scored 21 points and No. 25 Indiana limited the nation's leading scorer, P.J. Haggerty, to 12 below his average in an 86-69 home win over Kansas State on Tuesday night.The senior Bailey did most of his work at the line, where he hit 13 of 15 free throws. Haggerty, who averaged 28 per game, finished 7 of 17 from the field for 16 points and had six turnovers.Tayton Conerway added 19 for the Hoosiers (6-0). Lamar Wilkerson scored 14 and Trent Sisley had 12 points.Indiana jumped out to a 20-4 lead with five different shooters hitting 3s. Despite 13 first-half turnovers, Kansas State rallied to a 26-24 deficit. That's as close as the visitors would come. Indiana responded with a 13-3 spurt to take a 39-27 halftime lead, then continued the momentum after the break with a 10-2 run for a 49-29 lead.The Wildcats (5-2) had averaged 92.8 points in their previous six games. C.J. Jones had 15 points and Nate Johnson 13 for Kansas State.The Hoosiers' usual leading scorer had a rough night. Senior forward Tucker DeVries, who averages 19.2 points, scored just nine.<h2>Up next</h2>The Wildcats host Bowling Green on Monday.

🏀 Indiana holds Haggerty below his average to beat K-State

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Tre White had 15 points and 10 rebounds, Flory Bidunga added 13 points and 14 boards, and Kansas beat Syracuse 71-60 on Tuesday at the Players Era tournament.

Syracuse was within 52-50 before Kansas scored 11 straight on layups and free throws to pull away. White completed a three-point play with 4:49 remaining in the second half and he added three free throws on Kansas’ next possession for a 60-50 lead. Melvin Council Jr. drove into the lane and made a contested shot in the lane to cap the run.

Council chipped in with 14 points and Bryson Tiller had 11 points and eight rebounds to help Kansas (5-2) outrebound the Orange 49-29. The Jayhawks turned it over 15 times, but Syracuse only scored nine points off them.

Tyler Betsey scored 12 points off the bench and J.J. Starling added 10 for Syracuse (4-2). Kiyan Anthony, playing in front of his dad — former Orange and NBA star Carmelo — went 2 of 12 from the field to finish with six points. Syracuse went 13 of 23 at the free-throw line, while Kansas made 18 of 20.

Kansas led 34-25 at halftime after holding Syracuse to 31% shooting.

The Orange finished 20 of 63 (32%) from the field, including 7 of 30 from distance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764110972455.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — Tre White had 15 points and 10 rebounds, Flory Bidunga added 13 points and 14 boards, and Kansas beat Syracuse 71-60 on Tuesday at the Players Era tournament.Syracuse was within 52-50 before Kansas scored 11 straight on layups and free throws to pull away. White completed a three-point play with 4:49 remaining in the second half and he added three free throws on Kansas’ next possession for a 60-50 lead. Melvin Council Jr. drove into the lane and made a contested shot in the lane to cap the run.Council chipped in with 14 points and Bryson Tiller had 11 points and eight rebounds to help Kansas (5-2) outrebound the Orange 49-29. The Jayhawks turned it over 15 times, but Syracuse only scored nine points off them.Tyler Betsey scored 12 points off the bench and J.J. Starling added 10 for Syracuse (4-2). Kiyan Anthony, playing in front of his dad — former Orange and NBA star Carmelo — went 2 of 12 from the field to finish with six points. Syracuse went 13 of 23 at the free-throw line, while Kansas made 18 of 20.Kansas led 34-25 at halftime after holding Syracuse to 31% shooting.The Orange finished 20 of 63 (32%) from the field, including 7 of 30 from distance.___

🏀 Tre White and Flory Bidunga lead KU over Syracuse at Players Era tourney

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;Max Urick, a 2017 NACDA Hall of Fame and 2018 K-State Athletics Hall of Fame selection, passed away Friday in his home in Manhattan. He was 85.

“Today is a sad day for K-State,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Max was one of the most respected athletics directors in our history, both institutionally and across all of college athletics, and had such a big impact on our entire University community during his tenure. He continued to support our mission and efforts as a Manhattan resident and personally was a tremendous friend and mentor to me. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lynn and the Urick family during this difficult time.”

Urick’s dynamic leadership, sense of direction and expectation of a high level of professionalism within the department catapulted Wildcat athletics into the 21st Century and as a leader in the Big 12 Conference. He served as the department’s athletics director from 1993-2001 in the midst of Bill Snyder’s well-documented first tenure as football coach.He was a key player in the development of the Big 12 Conference and its ongoing transition. In doing so, he solidified K-State’s athletic future in one of the premier athletics conferences in college sports. But, as a team player, Urick was always quick to give credit to the many people involved in success at Kansas State.

Under Urick’s guidance, the athletics department made tremendous strides toward stabilizing financial balance while continuing an exciting growth period for athletic facilities at K-State. Urick placed a high priority on gender-equity issues at K-State by implementing several plans to enhance and increase women’s opportunities at K-State. The annual operating budget doubled during Urick’s tenure, proving that the financial health of the K-State athletics department stabilized and thrived under Urick’s direction.

Urick came to K-State after spending 19 years at Iowa State, including 10 as the Cyclones’ director of athletics. He originally joined the ISU staff as assistant athletics director in 1974 and then took over as athletics director in 1983. Before his arrival at Iowa State in 1974, Urick spent 13 seasons as a collegiate football coach at several levels.A native of Troy, Ohio, Urick was an All-America football and lacrosse player at Ohio Wesleyan University and also won a conference wrestling title prior to earning his bachelor’s degree in biological science/physical education in 1961. He received his master’s degree in physical education from The Ohio State University in 1965.

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;Max Urick, a 2017 NACDA Hall of Fame and 2018 K-State Athletics Hall of Fame selection, passed away Friday in his home in Manhattan. He was 85.“Today is a sad day for K-State,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Max was one of the most respected athletics directors in our history, both institutionally and across all of college athletics, and had such a big impact on our entire University community during his tenure. He continued to support our mission and efforts as a Manhattan resident and personally was a tremendous friend and mentor to me. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lynn and the Urick family during this difficult time.”Urick’s dynamic leadership, sense of direction and expectation of a high level of professionalism within the department catapulted Wildcat athletics into the 21st Century and as a leader in the Big 12 Conference. He served as the department’s athletics director from 1993-2001 in the midst of Bill Snyder’s well-documented first tenure as football coach.He was a key player in the development of the Big 12 Conference and its ongoing transition. In doing so, he solidified K-State’s athletic future in one of the premier athletics conferences in college sports. But, as a team player, Urick was always quick to give credit to the many people involved in success at Kansas State.Under Urick’s guidance, the athletics department made tremendous strides toward stabilizing financial balance while continuing an exciting growth period for athletic facilities at K-State. Urick placed a high priority on gender-equity issues at K-State by implementing several plans to enhance and increase women’s opportunities at K-State. The annual operating budget doubled during Urick’s tenure, proving that the financial health of the K-State athletics department stabilized and thrived under Urick’s direction.Urick came to K-State after spending 19 years at Iowa State, including 10 as the Cyclones’ director of athletics. He originally joined the ISU staff as assistant athletics director in 1974 and then took over as athletics director in 1983. Before his arrival at Iowa State in 1974, Urick spent 13 seasons as a collegiate football coach at several levels.A native of Troy, Ohio, Urick was an All-America football and lacrosse player at Ohio Wesleyan University and also won a conference wrestling title prior to earning his bachelor’s degree in biological science/physical education in 1961. He received his master’s degree in physical education from The Ohio State University in 1965.

K-State Athletics Hall of Famer Max Urick Passes Away

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 18 points, nine rebounds, five assists and five blocks, Bryson Tiller added 17 points and nine boards, and Kansas beat Notre Dame 71-61 in the Players Era Tournament on Monday for its first power-conference victory of the season.

Tre White chipped in with 16 points and nine rebounds for Kansas (4-2), which was coming off a 78-66 loss to then-No. 5 Duke in the Champions Classic. Melvin Council Jr. scored 12 and Darryn Peterson, averaging 25 points in two games, did not play.

Markus Burton led Notre Dame (4-2) with 24 points and Jalen Haralson added 13.

Bidunga scored 14 points in the first half on 6-of-9 shooting to help Kansas take a 39-32 lead. Notre Dame got as close as four points in the second half.

Council made back-to-back 3-pointers early in the second half to give Kansas a 51-40 lead. A White 3-pointer made it 62-54 with 5:33 left and Jamari McDowell made his only 3 at the 2:41 mark for a 10-point lead

The last meeting between the schools was on Jan. 23, 1988, a Notre Dame 80-76 win at home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764024013169.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 18 points, nine rebounds, five assists and five blocks, Bryson Tiller added 17 points and nine boards, and Kansas beat Notre Dame 71-61 in the Players Era Tournament on Monday for its first power-conference victory of the season.Tre White chipped in with 16 points and nine rebounds for Kansas (4-2), which was coming off a 78-66 loss to then-No. 5 Duke in the Champions Classic. Melvin Council Jr. scored 12 and Darryn Peterson, averaging 25 points in two games, did not play.Markus Burton led Notre Dame (4-2) with 24 points and Jalen Haralson added 13.Bidunga scored 14 points in the first half on 6-of-9 shooting to help Kansas take a 39-32 lead. Notre Dame got as close as four points in the second half.Council made back-to-back 3-pointers early in the second half to give Kansas a 51-40 lead. A White 3-pointer made it 62-54 with 5:33 left and Jamari McDowell made his only 3 at the 2:41 mark for a 10-point leadThe last meeting between the schools was on Jan. 23, 1988, a Notre Dame 80-76 win at home.___

🏀 Bidunga's 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks lead KU past Notre Dame 

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and FOX Sports have announced&nbsp; that Kansas State’s Senior Day game against Colorado this Saturday will kick at 11 a.m. and be shown on FS1.

This is the first time the Buffaloes are visiting Manhattan since 2009. K-State is 15-17-1 all-time against CU in Manhattan, including wins in each of the last two meetings in 2007 (47-20) and 2009 (20-6).

Tickets to the game against the Buffaloes can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763997050444.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and FOX Sports have announced&nbsp; that Kansas State’s Senior Day game against Colorado this Saturday will kick at 11 a.m. and be shown on FS1.This is the first time the Buffaloes are visiting Manhattan since 2009. K-State is 15-17-1 all-time against CU in Manhattan, including wins in each of the last two meetings in 2007 (47-20) and 2009 (20-6).Tickets to the game against the Buffaloes can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

K-State’s Senior Day Contest Set for Morning Kick

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for a season-high 352 yards, Kareem Hunt ran for 104 yards and a touchdown, and Harrison Butker's fifth field goal of the game gave the Kansas City Chiefs a come-from-behind 23-20 overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

Rashee Rice had eight catches for 141 yards, including two crucial ones on the Chiefs' tying touchdown drive in regulation and another in overtime, after Kansas City (6-5) had forced the high-powered Colts (8-3) to punt on a fourth consecutive three-and-out.

Butker ended the game with a 27-yard field goal with just under two minutes left in overtime, potentially keeping the Chiefs' playoff hopes alive. The reigning AFC champions had lost their previous two games, and another defeat against one of the hottest teams in the NFL on Sunday would have left Andy Reid's team needing a whole lot of help to make it back to the postseason.

The Colts blew a 20-9 fourth-quarter lead thanks in part to some questionable play-calling — and some worse execution.

They went almost entirely away from running back Jonathan Taylor down the stretch, putting the game instead in Daniel Jones' hands.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763990472045.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (7) kicks a game-winning field goal against the Indianapolis Colts during overtime of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (7) kicks a game-winning field goal against the Indianapolis Colts during overtime of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for a season-high 352 yards, Kareem Hunt ran for 104 yards and a touchdown, and Harrison Butker's fifth field goal of the game gave the Kansas City Chiefs a come-from-behind 23-20 overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.Rashee Rice had eight catches for 141 yards, including two crucial ones on the Chiefs' tying touchdown drive in regulation and another in overtime, after Kansas City (6-5) had forced the high-powered Colts (8-3) to punt on a fourth consecutive three-and-out.Butker ended the game with a 27-yard field goal with just under two minutes left in overtime, potentially keeping the Chiefs' playoff hopes alive. The reigning AFC champions had lost their previous two games, and another defeat against one of the hottest teams in the NFL on Sunday would have left Andy Reid's team needing a whole lot of help to make it back to the postseason.The Colts blew a 20-9 fourth-quarter lead thanks in part to some questionable play-calling — and some worse execution.They went almost entirely away from running back Jonathan Taylor down the stretch, putting the game instead in Daniel Jones' hands.He wound up with 181 yards passing and two touchdowns, but most of that production came in the first half. Jones was just 8 of 18 for 83 yards in the second half, which allowed Mahomes and Co. to mount a comeback that injected some life in a dim season.Taylor, meanwhile, only carried 16 times for 58 yards in his first game since a record-setting performance against the Falcons, when the Colts' star ran for 244 yards, piled up 286 from scrimmage and reached the end zone three times in an overtime win.The Chiefs have struggled all season with turnovers at inopportune times, and another set the tone for the first half. Mahomes had a pass from his 4-yard line batted by Laiatu Latu, who brought it in himself for the defensive end's third pick of the season.Two players later, Jones hit Michael Pittman to give Indianapolis a 7-0 lead.The Chiefs answered with the first of two grinding, eight-plus minute first-half drives, but each netted just a field goal. And when the Colts moved briskly downfield again, and Jones found Drew Ogletree in the back of the end zone, they had built a 14-3 advantage.The Colts were still clinging to 20-9 lead as the game headed to the fourth quarter.Just as he's done so many times in his career, though, Mahomes mounted another comeback. He marched Kansas City 56 yards before Hunt's touchdown dive, then Mahomes found Rice for a 2-point conversion to close within a field goal with 8 1/2 minutes to go.The Chiefs defense proceeded to step up, forcing a series of three-and-outs by the league's No. 1 offense.Kansas City took over after the second one with 4:43 left at its 6. Mahomes hit Rice for 47 yards, then he found him again on fourth-and-3 near midfield for a 19-yard gain. Hunt's dive on third-and-1 gave the Chiefs first down at the Colts 2 with a minute to go, but he was stuffed on the next play, Mahomes threw incomplete on the next, and he was sacked on third down.Butker banged through his fourth field goal, a 25-yard chip-shot as time expired, to send the game to overtime.Turned out the Chiefs would give Butker another chance a few minutes later, this time to win the game.<h2>Injuries</h2>Colts: WR Ashton Dulin left in the second half with a hamstring injury.Chiefs: LG Trey Smith left in the second half with an ankle injury. TE Noah Gray finished the game in the concussion protocol.<h2>Up next</h2>The Colts play the Texans next Sunday.The Chiefs visit the Cowboys on Thursday.