KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered for the fourth straight game, this time a go-ahead shot leading off the sixth inning, and the Kansas City Royals went on to beat the Texas Rangers 6-4 on Thursday for their sixth win in their last seven games.

Nick Loftin also homered for the Royals, who boosted their playoff hopes by going 8-2 on a season-high 10-game homestand.

Michael Lorenzen failed to make it through five innings for Kansas City, but Angel Zerpa (5-1), Daniel Lynch IV, John Schreiber and Taylor Clarke were able to shut down the Rangers. Carlos Estévez handled the ninth for his AL-leading 33rd save.

Corey Seager had three hits and Josh Smith drove in a pair of runs for Texas. Jacob Webb (4-4) served up Pasquantino's homer.

The Royals pulled ahead 2-1 in the third, when Bobby Witt Jr. sent a fly ball to left-center that Rangers outfielder Wyatt Langford lost in the sun. The ball bounced off the warning track, then off the top of the wall, and that gave the speedy Witt enough time to round the bases for what appeared to be an inside-the-park homer.

The umpires huddled and decided to call it a ground-rule double, because a fan appeared to have touched the ball. The Royals challenged the call and it was upheld, only for Salvador Perez to drive in Witt with a single moments later.

Kansas City added two more in the fourth before the Rangers tied the game with three runs in the fifth.

That set the stage for Pasquantino, whose four-game homer streak is one shy of the Royals club record.

Pasquantino greeted Webb's 2-1 pitch by sending it 407 feet to right field.

The Rangers' Patrick Corbin allowed four runs in 3 2/3 innings. He has allowed 17 over 13 innings covering his last four starts.

Texas returns home to face Cleveland on Friday night with RHP Nathan Eovaldi (11-3, 1.76 ERA) up first.

The Royals begin a three-game set Friday night in Detroit with RHP Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.75) on the mound.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755857643961.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez hits an RBI single during the third inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez hits an RBI single during the third inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered for the fourth straight game, this time a go-ahead shot leading off the sixth inning, and the Kansas City Royals went on to beat the Texas Rangers 6-4 on Thursday for their sixth win in their last seven games.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F1154185179868548%2F&show_text=false&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Nick Loftin also homered for the Royals, who boosted their playoff hopes by going 8-2 on a season-high 10-game homestand.Michael Lorenzen failed to make it through five innings for Kansas City, but Angel Zerpa (5-1), Daniel Lynch IV, John Schreiber and Taylor Clarke were able to shut down the Rangers. Carlos Estévez handled the ninth for his AL-leading 33rd save.Corey Seager had three hits and Josh Smith drove in a pair of runs for Texas. Jacob Webb (4-4) served up Pasquantino's homer.The Royals pulled ahead 2-1 in the third, when Bobby Witt Jr. sent a fly ball to left-center that Rangers outfielder Wyatt Langford lost in the sun. The ball bounced off the warning track, then off the top of the wall, and that gave the speedy Witt enough time to round the bases for what appeared to be an inside-the-park homer.The umpires huddled and decided to call it a ground-rule double, because a fan appeared to have touched the ball. The Royals challenged the call and it was upheld, only for Salvador Perez to drive in Witt with a single moments later.Kansas City added two more in the fourth before the Rangers tied the game with three runs in the fifth.That set the stage for Pasquantino, whose four-game homer streak is one shy of the Royals club record.<h2>Key moment</h2>Pasquantino greeted Webb's 2-1 pitch by sending it 407 feet to right field.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Rangers' Patrick Corbin allowed four runs in 3 2/3 innings. He has allowed 17 over 13 innings covering his last four starts.<h2>Up next</h2>Texas returns home to face Cleveland on Friday night with RHP Nathan Eovaldi (11-3, 1.76 ERA) up first.The Royals begin a three-game set Friday night in Detroit with RHP Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.75) on the mound.___

⚾ Pasquantino's homer in 4th straight game helps lift Royals over Rangers 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Higashioka had a three-run double in the ninth inning after a two-out error by Vinnie Pasquantino, and the Texas Rangers rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-3 on Wednesday night.

Wyatt Langford drew a two-out walk from Sam Long (1-3) and Corey Seager was safe when Pasquantino misplayed his slow roller at first. Marcus Semien reached on an infield hit before Higashioka doubled down the left-field line.

Hoby Milner (2-3) got the final four outs for the win.

Mike Yastrzemski and Bobby Witt Jr. led off the first with singles off fill-in first-time starter Caleb Boushley, and Pasquantino followed with his 25th home run to put the Royals up 3-1. Witt had three hits for the Royals, including his 39th double — tops in the majors.

Boushley filled in for Jacob deGrom, who had his start skipped after he experienced arm fatigue following his last outing. Boushley pitched two scoreless innings following his 38-pitch first.

Langford hit his 18th home run to lead off the game against rookie Noah Cameron. Langford singled and scored on a two-out base hit by Semien to cut it to 3-2 in the third.

Cameron allowed two runs on three hits and three walks in 4 2/3 innings as Kansas City saw a five-game win streak end.

Jonah Heim had a leadoff double off Daniel Lynch IV in the seventh before scoring on Seager's two-out single off Lucas Erceg to tie it 3-3.

Higashioka's double gave Texas its first lead since the first inning.

The Royals have hit the fewest home runs in the American League but they've outhomered the Rangers 14-3 in winning five of six matchups this season.

LHP Patrick Corbin (6-9, 4.45) was set to start Thursday as the Rangers go for a split of the four-game series opposite Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.43).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Higashioka had a three-run double in the ninth inning after a two-out error by Vinnie Pasquantino, and the Texas Rangers rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-3 on Wednesday night.Wyatt Langford drew a two-out walk from Sam Long (1-3) and Corey Seager was safe when Pasquantino misplayed his slow roller at first. Marcus Semien reached on an infield hit before Higashioka doubled down the left-field line.Hoby Milner (2-3) got the final four outs for the win.Mike Yastrzemski and Bobby Witt Jr. led off the first with singles off fill-in first-time starter Caleb Boushley, and Pasquantino followed with his 25th home run to put the Royals up 3-1. Witt had three hits for the Royals, including his 39th double — tops in the majors.Boushley filled in for Jacob deGrom, who had his start skipped after he experienced arm fatigue following his last outing. Boushley pitched two scoreless innings following his 38-pitch first.Langford hit his 18th home run to lead off the game against rookie Noah Cameron. Langford singled and scored on a two-out base hit by Semien to cut it to 3-2 in the third.Cameron allowed two runs on three hits and three walks in 4 2/3 innings as Kansas City saw a five-game win streak end.Jonah Heim had a leadoff double off Daniel Lynch IV in the seventh before scoring on Seager's two-out single off Lucas Erceg to tie it 3-3.<h2>Key moment</h2>Higashioka's double gave Texas its first lead since the first inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have hit the fewest home runs in the American League but they've outhomered the Rangers 14-3 in winning five of six matchups this season.<h2>Up next</h2>LHP Patrick Corbin (6-9, 4.45) was set to start Thursday as the Rangers go for a split of the four-game series opposite Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.43).

⚾ Higashioka's 3-run double in the 9th helps the Rangers beat the Royals 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered in the first inning and then scored the go-ahead run in the seventh when Jonathan India was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, helping the Kansas City Royals to a 5-2 win over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.

Bobby Witt Jr. added a two-run shot in the eighth for his 100th career homer, and Mike Yastrzemski went deep for the Royals, who have won five straight and improved to 7-1 on their season-high 10-game homestand.

Rangers reliever Hoby Milner (1-3) allowed three consecutive hits to start the seventh, including Pasquantino's double. Cole Winn then entered the game and hit India with his first pitch, giving Kansas City its first lead of the game.

Angel Zerpa (4-1) got five outs for the Royals before John Schreiber took care of the ninth for his first save.

Royals starter Seth Lugo and Rangers counterpart Merrill Kelly had matched each other pitch-for-pitch for most of the night.

Lugo surrendered a homer to Corey Seager with two outs in the first, then allowed one more hit before Joc Pederson’s homer in the fourth. Those were the only three hits that Lugo allowed, and he walked two while striking out five.

Kelly gave up the homer to Pasquantino, which just scraped over the right-field wall, with two outs in the first. He did not allow another hit until Yastrzemski's shot into the right-field bullpen with two outs in the sixth.

Those were the only two hits Kelly allowed over six innings. He struck out three without a walk.

Jonah Heim led off the eighth for Texas with a single, but Zerpa got pinch-hitter Cody Freeman to ground into a double play.

Kansas City is 5-0 against the Rangers this season.

The Rangers have not announced their starter for Wednesday after disclosing pregame that RHP Jacob deGrom would skip a turn due to shoulder fatigue. LHP Noah Cameron (7-5, 2.47 ERA) is due on the mound for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755685030105.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. hits a two-run home run for his 100th career home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. hits a two-run home run for his 100th career home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered in the first inning and then scored the go-ahead run in the seventh when Jonathan India was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, helping the Kansas City Royals to a 5-2 win over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.Bobby Witt Jr. added a two-run shot in the eighth for his 100th career homer, and Mike Yastrzemski went deep for the Royals, who have won five straight and improved to 7-1 on their season-high 10-game homestand.Rangers reliever Hoby Milner (1-3) allowed three consecutive hits to start the seventh, including Pasquantino's double. Cole Winn then entered the game and hit India with his first pitch, giving Kansas City its first lead of the game.Angel Zerpa (4-1) got five outs for the Royals before John Schreiber took care of the ninth for his first save.Royals starter Seth Lugo and Rangers counterpart Merrill Kelly had matched each other pitch-for-pitch for most of the night.Lugo surrendered a homer to Corey Seager with two outs in the first, then allowed one more hit before Joc Pederson’s homer in the fourth. Those were the only three hits that Lugo allowed, and he walked two while striking out five.Kelly gave up the homer to Pasquantino, which just scraped over the right-field wall, with two outs in the first. He did not allow another hit until Yastrzemski's shot into the right-field bullpen with two outs in the sixth.Those were the only two hits Kelly allowed over six innings. He struck out three without a walk.<h2>Key moment</h2>Jonah Heim led off the eighth for Texas with a single, but Zerpa got pinch-hitter Cody Freeman to ground into a double play.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City is 5-0 against the Rangers this season.<h2>Up next</h2>The Rangers have not announced their starter for Wednesday after disclosing pregame that RHP Jacob deGrom would skip a turn due to shoulder fatigue. LHP Noah Cameron (7-5, 2.47 ERA) is due on the mound for Kansas City.

⚾ Pasquantino and Witt power Royals to win over the Rangers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski, Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to power the Kansas City Royals past the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Monday night.

Michael Wacha (8-9) allowed two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings for the win. He struck out three, walked none and permitted two earned runs or fewer for the seventh straight start.

Carlos Estévez set a career high with his American League-leading 32nd save.

Yastrzemski's shot to right-center was the 10th leadoff homer of his career and third with the Royals, matching a franchise record for any month. Kansas City acquired Yastrzemski from San Francisco at the July 31 trade deadline.

Pasquantino hit a two-run drive over the right-field wall to give the Royals a 3-1 lead in the third. Bobby Witt Jr. was aboard on a leadoff walk.

Garcia's homer in the fifth went over the left-field wall, just inside the foul pole. Kansas City has homered in eight consecutive games, tying a season high.

The Rangers scored on RBI singles by Jonah Heim in the second and Evan Carter in the sixth. Rowdy Tellez had an RBI groundout in the eighth.

Jack Leiter (7-7) gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked three.

Royals catcher Luke Maile tagged out Joc Pederson at home plate as part of a double play off a throw from right fielder John Rave. The Rangers challenged the call and lost, keeping the score tied 1-all in the second inning.

Texas went 2 for 8 with runners in scoring position and finished with 11 hits — 10 singles.

The teams play the second game of their series Tuesday night. Texas will start Merrill Kelly (9-7, 3.36 ERA) against Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.77).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755571505480.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski, Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to power the Kansas City Royals past the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Monday night.Michael Wacha (8-9) allowed two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings for the win. He struck out three, walked none and permitted two earned runs or fewer for the seventh straight start.Carlos Estévez set a career high with his American League-leading 32nd save.Yastrzemski's shot to right-center was the 10th leadoff homer of his career and third with the Royals, matching a franchise record for any month. Kansas City acquired Yastrzemski from San Francisco at the July 31 trade deadline.Pasquantino hit a two-run drive over the right-field wall to give the Royals a 3-1 lead in the third. Bobby Witt Jr. was aboard on a leadoff walk.Garcia's homer in the fifth went over the left-field wall, just inside the foul pole. Kansas City has homered in eight consecutive games, tying a season high.The Rangers scored on RBI singles by Jonah Heim in the second and Evan Carter in the sixth. Rowdy Tellez had an RBI groundout in the eighth.Jack Leiter (7-7) gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked three.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals catcher Luke Maile tagged out Joc Pederson at home plate as part of a double play off a throw from right fielder John Rave. The Rangers challenged the call and lost, keeping the score tied 1-all in the second inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Texas went 2 for 8 with runners in scoring position and finished with 11 hits — 10 singles.<h2>Up next</h2>The teams play the second game of their series Tuesday night. Texas will start Merrill Kelly (9-7, 3.36 ERA) against Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.77).___

⚾ Royals hit three home runs in win over Rangers

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview the season opener against Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic this Saturday inside Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.

“Good afternoon. It is upon us. We are finishing our preparation for Iowa State and going to Dublin. We still have two more practices here in our facility, and then we'll have our Thursday practice over in Dublin. Going from camp to game mode, as well as all the logistics of travel – it's probably good that our kids aren't in class right now just so we can handle everything as well as continue our preparation. We're excited for the opportunity. We know it's going to be a challenging game. We know that Iowa State is a terrific football team. We’re doing a lot of things offensively, defensively and with special teams to give ourselves the best chance to be successful.”

Associate Athletics Director for Communications

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview the season opener against Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic this Saturday inside Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.CHRIS KLIEMAN, HEAD COACHOpening Statement…“Good afternoon. It is upon us. We are finishing our preparation for Iowa State and going to Dublin. We still have two more practices here in our facility, and then we'll have our Thursday practice over in Dublin. Going from camp to game mode, as well as all the logistics of travel – it's probably good that our kids aren't in class right now just so we can handle everything as well as continue our preparation. We're excited for the opportunity. We know it's going to be a challenging game. We know that Iowa State is a terrific football team. We’re doing a lot of things offensively, defensively and with special teams to give ourselves the best chance to be successful.”– k-statesports.com –RYAN LACKEYAssociate Athletics Director for Communications

K-State Discusses Season Opener at Weekly Press Conference

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonathan India and Adam Frazier hit two-run homers, rallying the Kansas City Royals to a 6-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday for a series sweep.

The White Sox led 2-0 before India tied it in the seventh with his 451-foot shot, tying his longest.

Run-scoring singles by Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez gave the Royals a 4-2 lead in the eighth before Frazier's fifth homer of the season made it 6-2.

White Sox starter Davis Martin allowed one hit in seven innings before Steven Wilson, Grant Taylor (0-3) and Jordan Leasure yielded six runs and seven hits in two innings.

Lenyn Sosa hit his 16th home run of the season with one out in the first and Andrew Benintendi scored on Edgar Quero's RBI single in the sixth to make it 2-0.

Lucas Erceg (5-3), the fourth Kansas City pitcher, earned the win with one scoreless inning.

Taylor pitched one inning and gave up three hits and three runs, including Frazier's homer.

The Royals have won 14 straight at home against the White Sox, tying a franchise record for most wins against one opponent at home.

The White Sox will head to Atlanta to play the Braves on Monday night. Yoendrys Gomez (2-1, 5.56 ERA) will start for Chicago and Spencer Strider (5-10, 4.69 ERA) will start for Atlanta. The Royals will host the Texas Rangers on Monday night. Kansas City will start Michael Wacha (7-9, 3.35 ERA). Texas will start Jack Leiter (7-6, 3.94 ERA)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755466421436.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonathan India and Adam Frazier hit two-run homers, rallying the Kansas City Royals to a 6-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday for a series sweep.The White Sox led 2-0 before India tied it in the seventh with his 451-foot shot, tying his longest.Run-scoring singles by Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez gave the Royals a 4-2 lead in the eighth before Frazier's fifth homer of the season made it 6-2.White Sox starter Davis Martin allowed one hit in seven innings before Steven Wilson, Grant Taylor (0-3) and Jordan Leasure yielded six runs and seven hits in two innings.Lenyn Sosa hit his 16th home run of the season with one out in the first and Andrew Benintendi scored on Edgar Quero's RBI single in the sixth to make it 2-0.Lucas Erceg (5-3), the fourth Kansas City pitcher, earned the win with one scoreless inning.<h2>Key moment</h2>Taylor pitched one inning and gave up three hits and three runs, including Frazier's homer.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have won 14 straight at home against the White Sox, tying a franchise record for most wins against one opponent at home.<h2>Up next</h2>The White Sox will head to Atlanta to play the Braves on Monday night. Yoendrys Gomez (2-1, 5.56 ERA) will start for Chicago and Spencer Strider (5-10, 4.69 ERA) will start for Atlanta. The Royals will host the Texas Rangers on Monday night. Kansas City will start Michael Wacha (7-9, 3.35 ERA). Texas will start Jack Leiter (7-6, 3.94 ERA)

⚾ India and Frazier homer to rally Royals over the White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — John Rave homered playing in place of the ailing Vinnie Pasquantino and the Kansas City Royals beat Chicago White Sox 6-2 on Saturday night to move above .500 for the first time since June 10.

Pasquantino left in the first inning because of heat-related illness. The game-time temperature was 94 degrees, with the humidity above 50%. Nick Loftin moved to first base, and Rave took over for Loftin in left.

Michael Lorenzen made his first start for Kansas City since July 6. He allowed three hits in four scoreless innings. Daniel Lynch IV (5-2) was the winner.

Mike Yastrzemski led off the first with a homer off Sean Burke (4-10). The Royals added an unearned run in the second, and Rave made it 3-0 in the third with his fourth home.

In the fifth, Rave singled and scored on Maikel Garcia's two-run double. Loftin had an RBI single in the sixth.

Andrew Benintendi doubled in two runs for Chicago in the eighth.

The Royals (62-61) had lost in their last five chances to move above .500.

Chicago RHP Davis Martin (4-9, 4.17 ERA) was set to start opposite RHP Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.87) on Sunday in the series finale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755398683364.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — John Rave homered playing in place of the ailing Vinnie Pasquantino and the Kansas City Royals beat Chicago White Sox 6-2 on Saturday night to move above .500 for the first time since June 10.Pasquantino left in the first inning because of heat-related illness. The game-time temperature was 94 degrees, with the humidity above 50%. Nick Loftin moved to first base, and Rave took over for Loftin in left.Michael Lorenzen made his first start for Kansas City since July 6. He allowed three hits in four scoreless innings. Daniel Lynch IV (5-2) was the winner.Mike Yastrzemski led off the first with a homer off Sean Burke (4-10). The Royals added an unearned run in the second, and Rave made it 3-0 in the third with his fourth home.In the fifth, Rave singled and scored on Maikel Garcia's two-run double. Loftin had an RBI single in the sixth.Andrew Benintendi doubled in two runs for Chicago in the eighth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Rave's homer in his first at-bat.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals (62-61) had lost in their last five chances to move above .500.<h2>Up next</h2>Chicago RHP Davis Martin (4-9, 4.17 ERA) was set to start opposite RHP Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.87) on Sunday in the series finale.

⚾ Rave fills in nicely for Pasquantino in Royals victory over the White Sox

SEATTLE (AP) — Sam Darnold looked the part of a franchise quarterback in his first appearance at Lumen Field as the Seattle Seahawks beat the Kansas City Chiefs 33-16 in a preseason game on Friday night.

Darnold,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/raiders-seahawks-score-carroll-edf384e650581062397c8dfdb83211f0">who did not appear in the Seattle Seahawks’ preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders</a>, completed 4 of 4 passes for 34 yards on the opening drive.

Darnold, who signed to a three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle in the offseason, made good use of both his legs and his tight ends during his sole series. He had no issues rolling out to either his left or right, locating tight ends AJ Barner and Elijah Arroyo for short passes, as well as fullback Robbie Ouzts and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for deeper completions.

“I thought today, first of all, it was awesome just to get out there in front of the 12s,” Darnold said. “And that atmosphere, too, I felt like that was kind of a perfect atmosphere. It felt like it was almost November, December already out there in the rain.”

Backup quarterback Drew Lock also impressed in relief of Darnold on a slippery Seattle evening, throwing a couple of touchdown passes to wide receiver Jake Bobo, and completing 10 of 12 passes for 129 yards. Coach Mike Macdonald was particularly complimentary of Bobo’s performance.

“This guy’s a Seahawk, man,” Macdonald said of Bobo, “The way he operates and goes and attacks the football."

Running backs Zach Charbonnet and Damien Martinez each added touchdowns on the ground in the first and third quarters, respectively.

The Chiefs, meanwhile, did not play quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce and other starters from the team that fell to the Philadelphia Eagles in last season’s Super Bowl.

Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew found tight end Robert Tonyan for a 1-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter.

The Seahawks’ defense in large part held strong, limiting the Chiefs’ reserves to three points in the second half. Kansas City wide receiver Skyy Moore, though, did return a punt for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.

“Now, we’re chasing perfection as much as you can’t obtain it,” safety Julian Love said. “That’s kind of what we’re trying to make the standard on defense.”

After rushing for the fifth-fewest yards as a team in 2024, the Seahawks have made it their prerogative to be more effective on the ground in 2025. They demonstrated on Friday, racking up 268 rushing yards on 48 carries. Five different players rushed for at least 30 yards.

“The backs ran really hard,” Macdonald said. “Every back today, I thought, ran the ball hard and going forward, how we finish plays, I can’t wait to watch it.”

Since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bengals-fant-227c19313598e1129d9506bcae6f22e7">Noah Fant is now a member of the Cincinnati Bengals</a>, tight end remains a key position battle for the Seahawks. Arroyo and Barner combined for three catches and 24 yards on Friday, not letting any passing attempts escape them despite slippery conditions.

Barner is the more veteran player, with 30 catches and 245 receiving yards under his belt from last season. But Arroyo, who was a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, has been more productive in the preseason. He has four catches for 33 yards through two exhibition games.

Seahawks: Visit the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 23.

Chiefs: Host the Chicago Bears on Aug. 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755374128244.jpeg" alt="Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jake Bobo (19) makes a touchdown catch as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) defends during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)" />
 <figcaption>Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jake Bobo (19) makes a touchdown catch as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) defends during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — Sam Darnold looked the part of a franchise quarterback in his first appearance at Lumen Field as the Seattle Seahawks beat the Kansas City Chiefs 33-16 in a preseason game on Friday night.Darnold,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/raiders-seahawks-score-carroll-edf384e650581062397c8dfdb83211f0">who did not appear in the Seattle Seahawks’ preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders</a>, completed 4 of 4 passes for 34 yards on the opening drive.Darnold, who signed to a three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle in the offseason, made good use of both his legs and his tight ends during his sole series. He had no issues rolling out to either his left or right, locating tight ends AJ Barner and Elijah Arroyo for short passes, as well as fullback Robbie Ouzts and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for deeper completions.“I thought today, first of all, it was awesome just to get out there in front of the 12s,” Darnold said. “And that atmosphere, too, I felt like that was kind of a perfect atmosphere. It felt like it was almost November, December already out there in the rain.”Backup quarterback Drew Lock also impressed in relief of Darnold on a slippery Seattle evening, throwing a couple of touchdown passes to wide receiver Jake Bobo, and completing 10 of 12 passes for 129 yards. Coach Mike Macdonald was particularly complimentary of Bobo’s performance.“This guy’s a Seahawk, man,” Macdonald said of Bobo, “The way he operates and goes and attacks the football."Running backs Zach Charbonnet and Damien Martinez each added touchdowns on the ground in the first and third quarters, respectively.The Chiefs, meanwhile, did not play quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce and other starters from the team that fell to the Philadelphia Eagles in last season’s Super Bowl.Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew found tight end Robert Tonyan for a 1-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter.The Seahawks’ defense in large part held strong, limiting the Chiefs’ reserves to three points in the second half. Kansas City wide receiver Skyy Moore, though, did return a punt for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.“Now, we’re chasing perfection as much as you can’t obtain it,” safety Julian Love said. “That’s kind of what we’re trying to make the standard on defense.”<h2>Scampering Seahawks</h2>After rushing for the fifth-fewest yards as a team in 2024, the Seahawks have made it their prerogative to be more effective on the ground in 2025. They demonstrated on Friday, racking up 268 rushing yards on 48 carries. Five different players rushed for at least 30 yards.“The backs ran really hard,” Macdonald said. “Every back today, I thought, ran the ball hard and going forward, how we finish plays, I can’t wait to watch it.”<h2>Tight end time</h2>Since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bengals-fant-227c19313598e1129d9506bcae6f22e7">Noah Fant is now a member of the Cincinnati Bengals</a>, tight end remains a key position battle for the Seahawks. Arroyo and Barner combined for three catches and 24 yards on Friday, not letting any passing attempts escape them despite slippery conditions.Barner is the more veteran player, with 30 catches and 245 receiving yards under his belt from last season. But Arroyo, who was a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, has been more productive in the preseason. He has four catches for 33 yards through two exhibition games.<h2>Up next</h2>Seahawks: Visit the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 23.Chiefs: Host the Chicago Bears on Aug. 22.

🏈 Sam Darnold helps lead Seahawks to win over the Chiefs

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Noah Cameron pitched into the sixth inning, Salvador Perez hit a go-ahead homer, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 3-1 on Friday night to continue their mastery of their AL Central rivals over the past couple of years.

The Royals are 18-3 against the White Sox since the start of last season, including a four-game sweep of Chicago n May.

Cameron (7-5) set the Royals rookie record at Kauffman Stadium by running his scoreless streak to 19 1/3 innings early on. And when Lenyn Sosa homered off him with two outs in the fourth, Cameron set down the next four batters.

Cameron loaded the bases with one out in the fifth, but John Schreiber came in and got Sosa to line into an inning-ending double play.

Carlos Estévez struck out the side in the ninth, finishing 3 2/3 scoreless innings by the Royals bullpen and earning his 31st save.

Aaron Civale (3-8) gave up three straight singles in the first as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead. He allowed one more hit until the fourth, when Perez sent a 1-0 pitch over the right-field wall to make it 2-1.

KC's Adam Frazier hit a two-out RBI double in the sixth.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro was ejected by second base umpire Tom Hanahan in the fifth after Kyle Isbel was thrown out trying to steal second. Quatraro was angry that the White Sox were not called for blocking the bag. It took crew chief Todd Tichenor to get the skipper back to the dugout.

The White Sox have lost nine of their last 11.

RHP Sean Burke (4-9, 4.26 ERA) starts Saturday night for Chicago. RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.61) makes his first start for Kansas City since July 6, when he pitched well before landing on the injured list with a left oblique strain.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755313126115.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Noah Cameron pitched into the sixth inning, Salvador Perez hit a go-ahead homer, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 3-1 on Friday night to continue their mastery of their AL Central rivals over the past couple of years.The Royals are 18-3 against the White Sox since the start of last season, including a four-game sweep of Chicago n May.Cameron (7-5) set the Royals rookie record at Kauffman Stadium by running his scoreless streak to 19 1/3 innings early on. And when Lenyn Sosa homered off him with two outs in the fourth, Cameron set down the next four batters.Cameron loaded the bases with one out in the fifth, but John Schreiber came in and got Sosa to line into an inning-ending double play.Carlos Estévez struck out the side in the ninth, finishing 3 2/3 scoreless innings by the Royals bullpen and earning his 31st save.Aaron Civale (3-8) gave up three straight singles in the first as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead. He allowed one more hit until the fourth, when Perez sent a 1-0 pitch over the right-field wall to make it 2-1.KC's Adam Frazier hit a two-out RBI double in the sixth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals manager Matt Quatraro was ejected by second base umpire Tom Hanahan in the fifth after Kyle Isbel was thrown out trying to steal second. Quatraro was angry that the White Sox were not called for blocking the bag. It took crew chief Todd Tichenor to get the skipper back to the dugout.<h2>Key stat</h2>The White Sox have lost nine of their last 11.<h2>Up next</h2>RHP Sean Burke (4-9, 4.26 ERA) starts Saturday night for Chicago. RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.61) makes his first start for Kansas City since July 6, when he pitched well before landing on the injured list with a left oblique strain.

⚾ Salvador Perez hits go-ahead homer as Royals top the White Sox 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Daylen Lile’s two-out, ninth-inning single boosted the Washington Nationals over the Kansas City Royals 8-7 on Wednesday.

After the Royals tied the game in the eighth, Luis García Jr. doubled, then scored on Lile's single to right for the lead.

Jose A. Ferrer (4-3) recorded four outs for the win. Carlos Estévez (4-5) took the loss after allowing one run on two hits and a walk in the ninth.

The Nationals took a five-run lead in the first, highlighted by Nathaniel Lowe’s grand slam.

Royals starter Seth Lugo surrendered seven runs on six hits over four innings. The five runs in the first was his most since an eight-run fourth inning against the Dodgers on Aug. 7, 2023.

CJ Abrams hit his 16th homer leading off the fourth for a 7-3 Nationals lead.

The Royals chipped away with two runs in the first and one in the second before Vinnie Pasquantino’s three-run homer cut the Nationals lead to 7-6. Bobby Witt Jr. hit an eighth-inning sacrifice fly to tie the game.

Pasquantino has three homers and 11 RBIs in his last four games.

Nationals starter Jake Irvin allowed six runs on seven hits and four walks in four innings.

Kansas City hitters were 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position against five Washington relievers.

The third of four Royals relievers, Luinder Avila made his major league debut pitching a hitless eighth.

Pinch-runner Tyler Tolbert stole second and third before scoring on Witt’s game-tying eighth-inning sacrifice fly.

Since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-seth-lugo-extension-dc4a058fb1eb5c167e719a246baee7bf">inking a two-year contract extension</a>&nbsp;July 28, Lugo has allowed 18 earned runs in 18 1/3 innings while failing to get through six innings in four starts.

Nationals: RHP Brad Lord (3-6, 3.28 ERA) takes the mound in Washington against the Phillies.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Daylen Lile’s two-out, ninth-inning single boosted the Washington Nationals over the Kansas City Royals 8-7 on Wednesday.After the Royals tied the game in the eighth, Luis García Jr. doubled, then scored on Lile's single to right for the lead.Jose A. Ferrer (4-3) recorded four outs for the win. Carlos Estévez (4-5) took the loss after allowing one run on two hits and a walk in the ninth.The Nationals took a five-run lead in the first, highlighted by Nathaniel Lowe’s grand slam.Royals starter Seth Lugo surrendered seven runs on six hits over four innings. The five runs in the first was his most since an eight-run fourth inning against the Dodgers on Aug. 7, 2023.CJ Abrams hit his 16th homer leading off the fourth for a 7-3 Nationals lead.The Royals chipped away with two runs in the first and one in the second before Vinnie Pasquantino’s three-run homer cut the Nationals lead to 7-6. Bobby Witt Jr. hit an eighth-inning sacrifice fly to tie the game.Pasquantino has three homers and 11 RBIs in his last four games.Nationals starter Jake Irvin allowed six runs on seven hits and four walks in four innings.Kansas City hitters were 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position against five Washington relievers.The third of four Royals relievers, Luinder Avila made his major league debut pitching a hitless eighth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Pinch-runner Tyler Tolbert stole second and third before scoring on Witt’s game-tying eighth-inning sacrifice fly.<h2>Key stat</h2>Since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-seth-lugo-extension-dc4a058fb1eb5c167e719a246baee7bf">inking a two-year contract extension</a>&nbsp;July 28, Lugo has allowed 18 earned runs in 18 1/3 innings while failing to get through six innings in four starts.<h2>Up next</h2>Nationals: RHP Brad Lord (3-6, 3.28 ERA) takes the mound in Washington against the Phillies.

⚾Daylen Lile’s 9th-inning single leads Nationals past Royals 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino doubled, homered and drove in five runs as the Kansas City Royals topped the Washington Nationals 8-5 to reach the .500 mark for the second time since mid-June.

After a two-out, third-inning walk by Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield hit, Pasquantino hit Mitchell Parker’s first-pitch fastball into the second row of the right field stands, a few feet inside the foul pole, expanding Kansas City’s lead to 4-0.

Pasquantino opened the scoring with a first-inning sacrifice fly and capped the Royals scoring with an RBI double in the seventh.

Jonathan India’s two-run homer extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-2 in the sixth.

Michael Wacha (7-9) allowed two runs on five hits and two walks with three strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, his sixth consecutive start permitting fewer than three runs.

Lucas Erceg earned his second save with a hitless ninth.

In 5 1/3 innings, Parker (7-13) allowed five runs on two hits with three walks and three strikeouts. Over his last three starts — all losses — Parker has allowed 17 runs in 14 1/3 innings.

Leaping at the center field wall,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/randal-grichuk-flies-out-sharply-to-center-fielder-robert-hassell-iii?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">Robert Hassell III robbed Randal Grichuk</a>&nbsp;of a solo home run in the fifth.

In the sixth, CJ Abrams scored when Witt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/michael-wacha-in-play-out-s-to-paul-dejong-wavtmn?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">misplayed Paul DeJong’s deep pop fly</a>, cutting the Royals lead to 4-2.

Abrams and James Wood collected two-out RBIs in the seventh. Wood recorded his fourth straight multihit game.

On Witt’s soft ground out between the plate and mound, Garcia hustled from first to third before scoring on Pasquantino’s sacrifice fly as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead in a hitless first inning.

Pasquantino leads the Royals 32 two-out RBIs and ranks second in the majors with 23 go-ahead RBIs.

Nationals RHP Jake Irvin (8-7, 4.90 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.46)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755053829399.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino doubled, homered and drove in five runs as the Kansas City Royals topped the Washington Nationals 8-5 to reach the .500 mark for the second time since mid-June.After a two-out, third-inning walk by Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield hit, Pasquantino hit Mitchell Parker’s first-pitch fastball into the second row of the right field stands, a few feet inside the foul pole, expanding Kansas City’s lead to 4-0.Pasquantino opened the scoring with a first-inning sacrifice fly and capped the Royals scoring with an RBI double in the seventh.Jonathan India’s two-run homer extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-2 in the sixth.Michael Wacha (7-9) allowed two runs on five hits and two walks with three strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, his sixth consecutive start permitting fewer than three runs.Lucas Erceg earned his second save with a hitless ninth.In 5 1/3 innings, Parker (7-13) allowed five runs on two hits with three walks and three strikeouts. Over his last three starts — all losses — Parker has allowed 17 runs in 14 1/3 innings.Leaping at the center field wall,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/randal-grichuk-flies-out-sharply-to-center-fielder-robert-hassell-iii?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">Robert Hassell III robbed Randal Grichuk</a>&nbsp;of a solo home run in the fifth.In the sixth, CJ Abrams scored when Witt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/michael-wacha-in-play-out-s-to-paul-dejong-wavtmn?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">misplayed Paul DeJong’s deep pop fly</a>, cutting the Royals lead to 4-2.Abrams and James Wood collected two-out RBIs in the seventh. Wood recorded his fourth straight multihit game.<h2>Key moment</h2>On Witt’s soft ground out between the plate and mound, Garcia hustled from first to third before scoring on Pasquantino’s sacrifice fly as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead in a hitless first inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Pasquantino leads the Royals 32 two-out RBIs and ranks second in the majors with 23 go-ahead RBIs.<h2>Up next</h2>Nationals RHP Jake Irvin (8-7, 4.90 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.46)

⚾ Pasquantino drives in 5 to lead the Royals past the Nationals 

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=24352&amp;type=Archive">Watch Matt Wells’ Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=24353&amp;type=Archive">Watch Joe Klanderman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/coordinator-press-conference-august-12-2025/4944">Listen on Wildcats Uncut</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kstatesports.wetransfer.com/downloads/2a977968980d1f4ad4e35c6f97e2bff120250812175150/fc66f0?t_exp=1757613111&amp;t_lsid=fd378d20-713a-4d75-9e2e-a926d0746ba1&amp;t_network=link&amp;t_rid=YXV0aDB8VHJhbnNmZXJ8bXNhendtMHYyMDQ=&amp;t_s=download_link&amp;t_ts=1755021111">Media Download</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://kstatesports.wetransfer.com/downloads/2a977968980d1f4ad4e35c6f97e2bff120250812175150/fc66f0?t_exp=1757613111&amp;t_lsid=fd378d20-713a-4d75-9e2e-a926d0746ba1&amp;t_network=link&amp;t_rid=YXV0aDB8VHJhbnNmZXJ8bXNhendtMHYyMDQ=&amp;t_s=download_link&amp;t_ts=1755021111"></a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Matt Wells&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Tuesday at the Vanier Family Football Complex to discuss the team’s progress during preseason camp and preview the season opener next Saturday against Iowa State. Links to video and audio of both press conferences are above, and a transcript of select quotes are below.

On the biggest challenge getting players ready for Ireland…

“I don't know about that. We’re just trying to get them ready for the season. It's more than just one game. It's trying to prepare these guys for the long haul. You're installing schemes. You're getting in shape. You're learning how to work through tough times. Lots of install, and then a game plan certainly is that. But, we'll get over there and we'll get acclimated and play the game. It won't matter where this game is going to be played – our guys will be ready to play.”

On how he feels about the offense after 16 practices…

“I think we all probably look at it with a real critical eye at times. But, when you look back, I see some areas I think we’re probably better than last year. Then, I think there's some areas that we all need game day to tell us some answers. These guys are really, really working hard. They're grinding. They're staying together. I hope it is a tough-minded group. We will go through some adversity. We know that. Whether it's an injury or it's something that didn't go right, or somebody comes out in a front that we didn't prepare for. How do you handle that? We've tried to put them through some of those situations. We do have some guys that have played ball. I rest easier in knowing that you've got a quarterback that's played, whatever, 14 games and started. There's some starts on that o-line. There's a few of them that have played in other places that are here. The tight end room is really experienced. Jayce (Brown) has played in a lot of games. (Jaron Tibbs) and JB (Jerand Bradley) have played in a lot of games – not in a Wildcat uniform, but in a lot of games. Dylan (Edwards) has played in games, and Joe (Jackson). So, I think I take that as a positive because I know how I think they're going to be. But also, we've got some of those guys I just mentioned that's a little bit new and improved. It’s a newer version of them, and I'm excited to go out and watch them all together.”

On how Avery Johnson is different from last season…

“I think he's probably more comfortable in his own skin, in his own ability. ‘I don't have to be this certain type of player. I don't need to listen to the media or somebody ask me about being a certain prototypical ‘blank’ kind of quarterback. I'm good when I run. I'm good when I throw it.’ I think he is further along in coverage recognition. I think he is further along in his ability to dissect what a defense is doing to him a little quicker. That takes time. It takes live reps, and that takes a lot of looks. Certainly with all the safeties that Joe (Klanderman) plays in the back end, that can be a challenge for us and in training camp. But, it's a good look knowing who our first opponent is.”

On the depth behind Avery Johnson at quarterback…

“You’ve got a battle for whoever that second quarterback is. That's something I see as ongoing. I’m not close to naming a guy. I don't know if Coach (Klieman) will. I don't know where that is. That’s not an alarm, that's guys at different stages of their careers in that room right now. They're all working hard. There are abilities there. I'm straining them as best I can in a practice setting. It's not easy, but being a backup quarterback is not easy. We may not play a backup quarterback here for two years, and it may be, I tell them, it may be two days. Who knows? Avery may get a hangnail. I don't know. So, there's uncertainty, and I try to create some of those situations in practice to make them react to that uncertainty because that's what it will be like if and when a guy has to go in there and do that. So, you want me to say something about who the guy is, but we don't know yet. They don't know, and that may be something that's ongoing for quite a while. In fact, last year, it was through the season. But, those guys are battling.”

On the growth of Dylan Edwards from last season…

“He's – like all our young men – going into his third year in college, a little bit more mature, a little bit more seasoned, a little bit more aware of the grind of practice schedule in training camp with the season coming up. I see a guy that's really dynamic, runs the ball better than you think in between the tackles. He has proven to be durable so far, and I hope that continues, but he's dynamic with the ball in his hands.”

JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On how he feels at this point in preseason camp…

“I feel like time is flying by. You look at this Ireland trip, and you knew the schedule was going to be a little bit different. Spring went by in a blur. Summer went by in a blur. As a football coach, June doesn’t even exist to you anymore. I think I was on vacation for about four days and was in the office the rest of the time. Now the game is afoot. So, it's flown by really quick, but I feel good about where our guys are at.”

On if there is a defensive position group that has taken a step forward during camp…

“Great question. I'll just say it to you this way – I feel pretty good about our starters. The thing was who are those next guys that are going to play significant snaps? We did a little situational walk throughout there today. Coach (Klieman) called out the second defense, and they got together in a little group. I looked at that group of guys and I'm like, ‘There's some pretty dang good football players here.’ They're good looking kids. They're kids that know what they're doing. They're kids that I would trust to be out there. So, I don't know. I think a lot of groups have made a great leap. Probably the group that has impressed me the most with the progress they've made since the spring is the corners. Just watching Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh, Justice Clemens, Jayden Rowe, playing with confidence, it's fun to watch those guys right now. That was probably the biggest question mark (after) losing the two seniors from a year ago. Obviously, both of them were very good players, and I don't think we're going to drop off there at all.”

On playing a big, physical cornerback in Jayden Rowe…

“Jayden’s a different animal now. He's about 227 pounds. He ran a 10.3 in high school. He's physical, and he uses it. You’d think change of direction or something like that would be an issue for him, but it’s not. So, he's a different animal. He came from a system at Oklahoma where they did so much. I don't know if he did any technique really well. We do less with our guys, but we try to do it with great technique. So, we're trying to get him dialed in on just that. I don't think it's a stress for him mentally, but just, ‘Hey, I'm a divider, I'm a man player. This is how we do it.’ That's what we're trying to work on with him.”

On this defense compared to last in terms of running to the football…

“These guys care. They're about it, and they hold each other accountable to that, which is the coolest thing. It's not me pushing the buttons. There are some guys that we have that are going to be big parts of this that are transfers. Qua Moss is going to be a big part of this. Gunner Maldonado is going to be a big part of this. Gabe Powers is going to be a big part of this – guys that were in different programs a year ago. They're taking pride in it. I hear them using our language. There's football terminology, sure, but there's also the language of how we run to the football, how we play, how we execute, how we do those things. To see it permeating through those guys is fun.”

“We're still working on the middle safety right now. I think there's some good competition there. The reason we're working on it is there are still some guys that are coming back from injury. Gunner Maldonado had an ACL last year. He's working back. Colby McCallister, an ACL last year. He's working back. Those guys are going to be big parts of it, probably bigger parts at the end of the year than they will be in the beginning of the year. VJ Payne has been nails. He's been fantastic, vocal, as we would expect. Wesley Fair has been tremendous. A quick blurb on Wesley – anything we've ever asked that kid to do, he's done. He played a smaller level – good football – but he played a smaller level of football (in high school). So, he didn't get exposed to a bunch of different things even though he was in a great program. He came here just learning stuff, learning the complexity of it, and he nailed it. Then it’s, ‘Wesley, man, I don't know if you're fast enough to do this stuff. Work on your speed.’ And he nailed it. He's a 22 mile per hour guy. ‘Wesley, can you be physical? Are you going to turn your head?’ Now he’s nailing that. Anything we've asked that kid to do through his career, he's done and he's been fantastic. I'll tell you – Logan Bartley, as a true freshman, will play this year. He is different. He's a unique talent. His maturity level and how he's picking things up right now is absolutely incredible. I don't know if I've ever seen it that good from a guy that young. Granted, he was here in the spring, but he'll play. So, there's a number of guys right now in that mix – Daniel Cobbs has been so much better, Qua Moss has been fantastic – that we think can play. We still got to sort that out.”

RYAN LACKEYAssociate Athletics Director for Communications<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=24352&amp;type=Archive">Watch Matt Wells’ Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=24353&amp;type=Archive">Watch Joe Klanderman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/coordinator-press-conference-august-12-2025/4944">Listen on Wildcats Uncut</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kstatesports.wetransfer.com/downloads/2a977968980d1f4ad4e35c6f97e2bff120250812175150/fc66f0?t_exp=1757613111&amp;t_lsid=fd378d20-713a-4d75-9e2e-a926d0746ba1&amp;t_network=link&amp;t_rid=YXV0aDB8VHJhbnNmZXJ8bXNhendtMHYyMDQ=&amp;t_s=download_link&amp;t_ts=1755021111">Media Download</a><a target="_blank" href="https://kstatesports.wetransfer.com/downloads/2a977968980d1f4ad4e35c6f97e2bff120250812175150/fc66f0?t_exp=1757613111&amp;t_lsid=fd378d20-713a-4d75-9e2e-a926d0746ba1&amp;t_network=link&amp;t_rid=YXV0aDB8VHJhbnNmZXJ8bXNhendtMHYyMDQ=&amp;t_s=download_link&amp;t_ts=1755021111"></a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Matt Wells&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Tuesday at the Vanier Family Football Complex to discuss the team’s progress during preseason camp and preview the season opener next Saturday against Iowa State. Links to video and audio of both press conferences are above, and a transcript of select quotes are below.MATT WELLS, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOROn the biggest challenge getting players ready for Ireland…“I don't know about that. We’re just trying to get them ready for the season. It's more than just one game. It's trying to prepare these guys for the long haul. You're installing schemes. You're getting in shape. You're learning how to work through tough times. Lots of install, and then a game plan certainly is that. But, we'll get over there and we'll get acclimated and play the game. It won't matter where this game is going to be played – our guys will be ready to play.”On how he feels about the offense after 16 practices…“I think we all probably look at it with a real critical eye at times. But, when you look back, I see some areas I think we’re probably better than last year. Then, I think there's some areas that we all need game day to tell us some answers. These guys are really, really working hard. They're grinding. They're staying together. I hope it is a tough-minded group. We will go through some adversity. We know that. Whether it's an injury or it's something that didn't go right, or somebody comes out in a front that we didn't prepare for. How do you handle that? We've tried to put them through some of those situations. We do have some guys that have played ball. I rest easier in knowing that you've got a quarterback that's played, whatever, 14 games and started. There's some starts on that o-line. There's a few of them that have played in other places that are here. The tight end room is really experienced. Jayce (Brown) has played in a lot of games. (Jaron Tibbs) and JB (Jerand Bradley) have played in a lot of games – not in a Wildcat uniform, but in a lot of games. Dylan (Edwards) has played in games, and Joe (Jackson). So, I think I take that as a positive because I know how I think they're going to be. But also, we've got some of those guys I just mentioned that's a little bit new and improved. It’s a newer version of them, and I'm excited to go out and watch them all together.”On how Avery Johnson is different from last season…“I think he's probably more comfortable in his own skin, in his own ability. ‘I don't have to be this certain type of player. I don't need to listen to the media or somebody ask me about being a certain prototypical ‘blank’ kind of quarterback. I'm good when I run. I'm good when I throw it.’ I think he is further along in coverage recognition. I think he is further along in his ability to dissect what a defense is doing to him a little quicker. That takes time. It takes live reps, and that takes a lot of looks. Certainly with all the safeties that Joe (Klanderman) plays in the back end, that can be a challenge for us and in training camp. But, it's a good look knowing who our first opponent is.”On the depth behind Avery Johnson at quarterback…“You’ve got a battle for whoever that second quarterback is. That's something I see as ongoing. I’m not close to naming a guy. I don't know if Coach (Klieman) will. I don't know where that is. That’s not an alarm, that's guys at different stages of their careers in that room right now. They're all working hard. There are abilities there. I'm straining them as best I can in a practice setting. It's not easy, but being a backup quarterback is not easy. We may not play a backup quarterback here for two years, and it may be, I tell them, it may be two days. Who knows? Avery may get a hangnail. I don't know. So, there's uncertainty, and I try to create some of those situations in practice to make them react to that uncertainty because that's what it will be like if and when a guy has to go in there and do that. So, you want me to say something about who the guy is, but we don't know yet. They don't know, and that may be something that's ongoing for quite a while. In fact, last year, it was through the season. But, those guys are battling.”On the growth of Dylan Edwards from last season…“He's – like all our young men – going into his third year in college, a little bit more mature, a little bit more seasoned, a little bit more aware of the grind of practice schedule in training camp with the season coming up. I see a guy that's really dynamic, runs the ball better than you think in between the tackles. He has proven to be durable so far, and I hope that continues, but he's dynamic with the ball in his hands.”JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOROn how he feels at this point in preseason camp…“I feel like time is flying by. You look at this Ireland trip, and you knew the schedule was going to be a little bit different. Spring went by in a blur. Summer went by in a blur. As a football coach, June doesn’t even exist to you anymore. I think I was on vacation for about four days and was in the office the rest of the time. Now the game is afoot. So, it's flown by really quick, but I feel good about where our guys are at.”On if there is a defensive position group that has taken a step forward during camp…“Great question. I'll just say it to you this way – I feel pretty good about our starters. The thing was who are those next guys that are going to play significant snaps? We did a little situational walk throughout there today. Coach (Klieman) called out the second defense, and they got together in a little group. I looked at that group of guys and I'm like, ‘There's some pretty dang good football players here.’ They're good looking kids. They're kids that know what they're doing. They're kids that I would trust to be out there. So, I don't know. I think a lot of groups have made a great leap. Probably the group that has impressed me the most with the progress they've made since the spring is the corners. Just watching Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh, Justice Clemens, Jayden Rowe, playing with confidence, it's fun to watch those guys right now. That was probably the biggest question mark (after) losing the two seniors from a year ago. Obviously, both of them were very good players, and I don't think we're going to drop off there at all.”On playing a big, physical cornerback in Jayden Rowe…“Jayden’s a different animal now. He's about 227 pounds. He ran a 10.3 in high school. He's physical, and he uses it. You’d think change of direction or something like that would be an issue for him, but it’s not. So, he's a different animal. He came from a system at Oklahoma where they did so much. I don't know if he did any technique really well. We do less with our guys, but we try to do it with great technique. So, we're trying to get him dialed in on just that. I don't think it's a stress for him mentally, but just, ‘Hey, I'm a divider, I'm a man player. This is how we do it.’ That's what we're trying to work on with him.”On this defense compared to last in terms of running to the football…“These guys care. They're about it, and they hold each other accountable to that, which is the coolest thing. It's not me pushing the buttons. There are some guys that we have that are going to be big parts of this that are transfers. Qua Moss is going to be a big part of this. Gunner Maldonado is going to be a big part of this. Gabe Powers is going to be a big part of this – guys that were in different programs a year ago. They're taking pride in it. I hear them using our language. There's football terminology, sure, but there's also the language of how we run to the football, how we play, how we execute, how we do those things. To see it permeating through those guys is fun.”On the depth at safety…“We're still working on the middle safety right now. I think there's some good competition there. The reason we're working on it is there are still some guys that are coming back from injury. Gunner Maldonado had an ACL last year. He's working back. Colby McCallister, an ACL last year. He's working back. Those guys are going to be big parts of it, probably bigger parts at the end of the year than they will be in the beginning of the year. VJ Payne has been nails. He's been fantastic, vocal, as we would expect. Wesley Fair has been tremendous. A quick blurb on Wesley – anything we've ever asked that kid to do, he's done. He played a smaller level – good football – but he played a smaller level of football (in high school). So, he didn't get exposed to a bunch of different things even though he was in a great program. He came here just learning stuff, learning the complexity of it, and he nailed it. Then it’s, ‘Wesley, man, I don't know if you're fast enough to do this stuff. Work on your speed.’ And he nailed it. He's a 22 mile per hour guy. ‘Wesley, can you be physical? Are you going to turn your head?’ Now he’s nailing that. Anything we've asked that kid to do through his career, he's done and he's been fantastic. I'll tell you – Logan Bartley, as a true freshman, will play this year. He is different. He's a unique talent. His maturity level and how he's picking things up right now is absolutely incredible. I don't know if I've ever seen it that good from a guy that young. Granted, he was here in the spring, but he'll play. So, there's a number of guys right now in that mix – Daniel Cobbs has been so much better, Qua Moss has been fantastic – that we think can play. We still got to sort that out.”

 K-State Coordinators Discuss Preseason Camp, Preview Season Opener   

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvadore Perez and Kyle Isbel hit two-run homers in the sixth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Washington Nationals 7-4 on Monday night.

<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955078948276031846">Perez homered</a>&nbsp;off rookie Cade Cavalli after Maikel Garcia drew a leadoff walk, tying the game at 4. Adam Frazier singled, chasing Cavalli, and Jackson Rutledge (1-2) entered and retired Randal Grichuk on a double-play grounder. Nick Loftin had a two-out single before scoring on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955081255650808176">Isbel's fourth homer</a>. Perez's homer was his 21st.

James Wood walked leading off the first against Bailey Falter in his home debut for the Royals after being acquired from the Pirates at the trade deadline. Josh Bell hit his 15th homer — a 422-foot, two-out shot to left-center — to give the Nationals a 2-0 lead.

Garcia, Perez and Frazier had consecutive singles to start the second for the Royals' first run. Loftin's sacrifice fly tied it 2-all.

Falter left a tie game after four innings and 76 pitches. Wood singled off Daniel Lynch IV (4-2) leading off the fifth and Paul DeJong hit his fourth homer one out later to put the Nationals up 4-2.

Mike Yastrzemski added a run in the eighth with a sac fly. Frazier finished 3 for 4 and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth for his 30th save.

Bobby Witt Jr. went 2 for 5 in his return to the Royals lineup after back tightness forced him to miss his second game of the season on Sunday.

Kansas City won the opener of a 10-game homestand and moved to 59-60 on the season.

Isbel's go-ahead shot came after he popped out in foul territory on a 3-1 pitch with one out and runners on second and third in a tie game in the second inning.

The Royals have scored 441 runs, fewest in the AL.

Nationals LHP Mitchell Parker (7-12, 5.43 ERA) will start Tuesday opposite Royals RHP Michael Wacha (6-9, 3.36).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754993233351.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Maikel Garcia after hitting a two-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Maikel Garcia after hitting a two-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvadore Perez and Kyle Isbel hit two-run homers in the sixth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Washington Nationals 7-4 on Monday night.<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955078948276031846">Perez homered</a>&nbsp;off rookie Cade Cavalli after Maikel Garcia drew a leadoff walk, tying the game at 4. Adam Frazier singled, chasing Cavalli, and Jackson Rutledge (1-2) entered and retired Randal Grichuk on a double-play grounder. Nick Loftin had a two-out single before scoring on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955081255650808176">Isbel's fourth homer</a>. Perez's homer was his 21st.James Wood walked leading off the first against Bailey Falter in his home debut for the Royals after being acquired from the Pirates at the trade deadline. Josh Bell hit his 15th homer — a 422-foot, two-out shot to left-center — to give the Nationals a 2-0 lead.Garcia, Perez and Frazier had consecutive singles to start the second for the Royals' first run. Loftin's sacrifice fly tied it 2-all.Falter left a tie game after four innings and 76 pitches. Wood singled off Daniel Lynch IV (4-2) leading off the fifth and Paul DeJong hit his fourth homer one out later to put the Nationals up 4-2.Mike Yastrzemski added a run in the eighth with a sac fly. Frazier finished 3 for 4 and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth for his 30th save.Bobby Witt Jr. went 2 for 5 in his return to the Royals lineup after back tightness forced him to miss his second game of the season on Sunday.Kansas City won the opener of a 10-game homestand and moved to 59-60 on the season.<h2>Key moment</h2>Isbel's go-ahead shot came after he popped out in foul territory on a 3-1 pitch with one out and runners on second and third in a tie game in the second inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have scored 441 runs, fewest in the AL.<h2>Up next</h2>Nationals LHP Mitchell Parker (7-12, 5.43 ERA) will start Tuesday opposite Royals RHP Michael Wacha (6-9, 3.36).

⚾ Perez and Isbel  homers power Royals past the Nationals

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics officials announced Monday that standing room-only tickets are all that remain for the September 27 matchup against UCF as demand continues to rise for the 2025 football season.

Fans still hoping to experience the electric atmosphere of a home game this fall are encouraged to act fast as limited tickets remain for the home opener against North Dakota on August 30 and the Fort Riley Day game against Army on September 6.

Upcoming Home Games with Limited Availability:

Saturday, August 30 – vs. North Dakota (Stripe Out and Postgame Drone Show)

Saturday, September 6 – vs. Army (Fort Riley Day)

Additional ticket inventory for all home games continues to move quickly. Tickets can be purchased by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/events/FBSG?elqTrackId=E6C1DA05C938147E6FD723A4BDF84002&amp;elqTrack=true">clicking here</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or in person at the K-State Athletics Ticket Office.

K-State, which checked in at No. 17 in the Preseason Associated Press Top 25 poll on Monday, opens the 2025 season next Saturday, August 23, against Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic inside Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The game, which kicks off at 11 a.m. (CT), will be shown on ESPN.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics officials announced Monday that standing room-only tickets are all that remain for the September 27 matchup against UCF as demand continues to rise for the 2025 football season.Fans still hoping to experience the electric atmosphere of a home game this fall are encouraged to act fast as limited tickets remain for the home opener against North Dakota on August 30 and the Fort Riley Day game against Army on September 6.Upcoming Home Games with Limited Availability:Saturday, August 30 – vs. North Dakota (Stripe Out and Postgame Drone Show)Saturday, September 6 – vs. Army (Fort Riley Day)Additional ticket inventory for all home games continues to move quickly. Tickets can be purchased by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/events/FBSG?elqTrackId=E6C1DA05C938147E6FD723A4BDF84002&amp;elqTrack=true">clicking here</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or in person at the K-State Athletics Ticket Office.K-State, which checked in at No. 17 in the Preseason Associated Press Top 25 poll on Monday, opens the 2025 season next Saturday, August 23, against Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic inside Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The game, which kicks off at 11 a.m. (CT), will be shown on ESPN.RYAN LACKEY

SRO Tickets Remain for K-State’s Game Against UCF

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Luke Keaschall hit a two-run homer in the 11th inning, Ryan Fitzgerald homered for his first career hit, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3 on Sunday.

With two outs, Keaschall hit a fastball from Royals closer Carlos Estévez (4-4) to the first row of seats in right-centerfield for Minnesota’s ninth walk-off win of the season.

It was the third hit of the day for Keaschall, who has reached base in 12 straight games to start his career.

Michael Tonkin (1-0), Minnesota’s seventh pitcher, pitched scoreless 10th and 11th innings for his first win since July 30, 2024.

Adam Frazier had four hits and Maikel Garcia three for Kansas City. Vinnie Pasquantino hit his 20th home run for a 3-2 lead in the seventh.

The Twins tied it in the eighth when Ryan Jeffers drove in Austin Martin, who tripled on an ill-advised diving attempt by John Rave with the ball getting past the left fielder and rolling to the wall.

In his fourth career game, Fitzgerald, a 31-year-old who signed a minor league contract with Minnesota in January, hit a third-inning slider from Ryan Bergert off the top of the right field wall for a 2-1 Twins lead.

Seeking his second career five-hit game, Frazier flew out with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth. Kansas City was 1 for 15 with men in scoring position and left 15 runners on base.

The Royals lost for just the fourth time in 50 games when leading after seven innings. Minnesota won for the third time in 48 games when trailing after seven.

Kansas City LHP Bailey Falter (7-6, 4.14 ERA) hosts Nationals’ RHP Cade Cavalli (0-0, 0.00) on Monday.

RHP Zebby Matthews (3-3, 5.17) gets the ball Monday for Minnesota against Yankees RHP Will Warren (6-5, 4.44).

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Luke Keaschall hit a two-run homer in the 11th inning, Ryan Fitzgerald homered for his first career hit, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3 on Sunday.With two outs, Keaschall hit a fastball from Royals closer Carlos Estévez (4-4) to the first row of seats in right-centerfield for Minnesota’s ninth walk-off win of the season.It was the third hit of the day for Keaschall, who has reached base in 12 straight games to start his career.Michael Tonkin (1-0), Minnesota’s seventh pitcher, pitched scoreless 10th and 11th innings for his first win since July 30, 2024.Adam Frazier had four hits and Maikel Garcia three for Kansas City. Vinnie Pasquantino hit his 20th home run for a 3-2 lead in the seventh.The Twins tied it in the eighth when Ryan Jeffers drove in Austin Martin, who tripled on an ill-advised diving attempt by John Rave with the ball getting past the left fielder and rolling to the wall.In his fourth career game, Fitzgerald, a 31-year-old who signed a minor league contract with Minnesota in January, hit a third-inning slider from Ryan Bergert off the top of the right field wall for a 2-1 Twins lead.<h2>Key moment</h2>Seeking his second career five-hit game, Frazier flew out with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth. Kansas City was 1 for 15 with men in scoring position and left 15 runners on base.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals lost for just the fourth time in 50 games when leading after seven innings. Minnesota won for the third time in 48 games when trailing after seven.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City LHP Bailey Falter (7-6, 4.14 ERA) hosts Nationals’ RHP Cade Cavalli (0-0, 0.00) on Monday.RHP Zebby Matthews (3-3, 5.17) gets the ball Monday for Minnesota against Yankees RHP Will Warren (6-5, 4.44).

⚾Keaschall hits 2-run homer in 11th as Twins top Royals

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Quarterback Patrick Mahomes spent some time before Saturday's preseason game running up and down the Kansas City Chiefs sideline, yelling, jumping and psyching himself up for his first game action since last season's Super Bowl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754791888557.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Quarterback Patrick Mahomes spent some time before Saturday's preseason game running up and down the Kansas City Chiefs sideline, yelling, jumping and psyching himself up for his first game action since last season's Super Bowl.He was ready — for all 48 seconds of itMahomes, a three-time Super Bowl champ entering his ninth season, took advantage of a short field after the Arizona Cardinals fumbled the opening kickoff,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Chiefs/status/1954335253960458350">hitting Jason Brownlee for a 1-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;and an early 7-0 lead less than one minute into the game.Arizona rallied for a 20-17 win over Kansas City in the preseason opener for both teams.Mahomes said coach Andy Reid told him before the game that he'd play just one series, but it was an even shorter night than he imagined.“One series turned into one throw,” Mahomes said, grinning.The TD pass was Mahomes' only completion of the game, ending a brief, effective outing. Backup Gardner Minshew took over on the next series and ran for a 2-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Harrison Butker made a 58-yard field goal.Mahomes' final line: 1-for-1 passing for 1 yard and one touchdown. The three-time defending AFC champions were playing for the first time&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-2025-eagles-chiefs-score-e2ff209c074a00a6faff39750ff048f8">since losing last season's Super Bowl 40-22</a>&nbsp;to the Philadelphia Eagles.“There were some good things,” Reid said. “I thought the (starters) played well when they were in, they were sharp. After that, we were too sloppy. Too many penalties, going backward.”While Kansas City got off to a good start, Arizona did not.The Cardinals fumbled their first two kickoff returns, though they recovered the second one. Kyler Murray — playing in his first preseason game since 2021 — was intercepted on the offense's opening drive on a pass intended for second-year receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.Murray's second drive was hindered when tight end Tip Reiman was called for a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness. The miscue was part of the reason the Cardinals had to settle for a 33-yard field goal by Chad Ryland.Murray chose to remain positive about the outing, saying that even with the mistakes, it was good to get on the field and play at game speed.“You can’t replicate it in practice, moving around with the speed that you’re moving, going left to right, lateral, bodies moving. I had fun. I had a lot of fun out there,” Murray said.Murray played two drives, completing 7 of 8 passes for 96 yards and the interception. Tight end Trey McBride caught one pass for 21 yards and Harrison had a catch for 15 yards.The Cardinals trailed 14-3 early but Emari Demercado caught a 43-yard touchdown pass to cut the margin to 14-10. Xavier Weaver caught a 1-yard touchdown pass that gave the Cardinals a 17-14 lead at halftime.Both touchdowns were thrown by Arizona's new backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who completed 5 of 8 passes for 81 yards. The Cardinals outgained the Chiefs 355 yards to 249.Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon echoed Murray's positive outlook, even after the early mistakes.“The team — not just Kyler — understood why we're doing what we're doing tonight,” Gannon said. "They were excited to get under the lights. That's the AFC champs coming in here. Andy Reid — Hall of Fame coach. They were excited to play a really good team, get lathered up and bang a little on someone other than themselves.“It was good to see our guys ready to roll.”The Cardinals — who are trying to make the playoffs for the first time since 2021 — finished last season with an 8-9 record, which was a four-win improvement over the previous season. Arizona revamped its defensive front during the offseason, adding Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell.<h2>Injuries</h2>Chiefs: Cornerback Jaylen Watson (concussion protocol) left the game in the first half. Safety Deon Bush (Achilles tendon) was carted off the field in the second quarter.Cardinals: Gannon said postgame that offensive lineman Christian Jones had a knee injury.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: visit the Seahawks on Friday, Aug. 15.Cardinals: visit the Broncos on Saturday, Aug. 16.

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