Week Four Area High School Football Scores

Blue Valley Northwest defeated Washburn Rural 49-23

Week Four Area High School Football ScoresManhattan beat Junction City 52-0Blue Valley Northwest defeated Washburn Rural 49-23Clay Center defeated Chapman 42-26Council Grove beat Riley County 34-13Marysville beat Concordia 24-0Moundridge defeated Herington 76-6Rock Creek beat Abilene 42-6Rural Vista defeated Wakefield 52-6Topeka High beat Emporia 47-14Wamego beat Topeka Hayden 31-28

Week Four Area High School Football Scores

Manhattan blanked the Junction City Blue Jays on Friday night, winning 52-0 at Blue Jay Stadium.

After forcing a quick punt by Manhattan on the opening possession of the game, Junction City quarterback Conrad Gomez, who faced constant pressure all night, was called for intentional grounding in the end zone, resulting in a safety, and gave Manhattan a 2-0 lead.

After the safety, Manhattan put their foot on the gas pedal, charged ahead, and took a 30-0 lead at halftime. For the Indians, running backs Jaydin Hudley and Kha'Mario Davis each scored two touchdowns on the night. Manhattan gets their fourth win of the season, improving to 4-0.

Junction City falls to 1-3 on the year. All three losses have been against top 10 opponents in class 6A. For the Blue Jays,  up next is another tough test, as the Hays Indians come to town next Friday.

The Indians of Manhattan, now 4-0, will be host Emporia next Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727497638557.jpeg" alt="The Blue Jays and Indians meet at midfield following the rivalry game on Friday night. Manhattan won the game 52-0, winning the Silver Trophy for the fourth straight season.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Jays and Indians meet at midfield following the rivalry game on Friday night. Manhattan won the game 52-0, winning the Silver Trophy for the fourth straight season.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostManhattan blanked the Junction City Blue Jays on Friday night, winning 52-0 at Blue Jay Stadium.After forcing a quick punt by Manhattan on the opening possession of the game, Junction City quarterback Conrad Gomez, who faced constant pressure all night, was called for intentional grounding in the end zone, resulting in a safety, and gave Manhattan a 2-0 lead.After the safety, Manhattan put their foot on the gas pedal, charged ahead, and took a 30-0 lead at halftime. For the Indians, running backs Jaydin Hudley and Kha'Mario Davis each scored two touchdowns on the night. Manhattan gets their fourth win of the season, improving to 4-0.Junction City falls to 1-3 on the year. All three losses have been against top 10 opponents in class 6A. For the Blue Jays, up next is another tough test, as the Hays Indians come to town next Friday.The Indians of Manhattan, now 4-0, will be host Emporia next Friday.

Manhattan spoils Junction City's homecoming game

ATLANTA (AP) — Max Fried pitched three-hit ball over 8 2/3 innings and the Atlanta Braves delayed Kansas City's playoff celebration, beating the Royals 3-0 on Friday night in the opener of a crucial series for both teams.

Sean Murphy hit a two-run homer and Marcell Ozuna trotted home on a throwing error after his first stolen base since 2022 for the Braves, who began the night one game behind Arizona and the New York Mets in the NL wild-card race.

The Mets were playing at Milwaukee, while the Diamondbacks hosted the Padres.

The Royals came in with their magic number at one to clinch their first playoff appearance since winning the 2015 World Series. They were still in position to celebrate an AL wild-card berth Friday if the Minnesota Twins lost to Baltimore.

Fried (11-10) came within one out of a shutout, giving way to Raisel Iglesias when the Royals put runners at second and third. Iglesias retired Salvador Perez on a flyout for his 33rd save.

Fried threw 98 pitches, 63 for strikes. He walked two and struck out nine.

Royals starter Brady Singer (9-13) allowed two runs on four hits with three walks and five strikeouts. Murphy homered on an 0-2 pitch in the fourth, and Ozuna tacked on an unlikely insurance run in the eighth by stealing third.

Caught off guard, Perez threw the ball into left field, allowing Ozuna to make it home to a giddy celebration in the Atlanta dugout.

Royals: First baseman Vinnie Pasquantino (broken right thumb) was on the field during batting practice and will take simulated at-bats against reliever Will Smith on Saturday.

Braves: Starting pitcher Reynaldo López (right shoulder inflammation) threw his second side session Thursday. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker did not indicate when López might be activated.

Right-hander Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.03 ERA) will start for the Royals on Saturday. The Braves had not yet announced a starting pitcher. Lugo allowed two runs on three hits over seven innings in his last outing — a 2-0 loss to the Giants on Sept. 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727488300952.jpeg" alt="Atlanta Braves pitcher Max Fried throws in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)" />
 <figcaption>Atlanta Braves pitcher Max Fried throws in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Max Fried pitched three-hit ball over 8 2/3 innings and the Atlanta Braves delayed Kansas City's playoff celebration, beating the Royals 3-0 on Friday night in the opener of a crucial series for both teams.Sean Murphy hit a two-run homer and Marcell Ozuna trotted home on a throwing error after his first stolen base since 2022 for the Braves, who began the night one game behind Arizona and the New York Mets in the NL wild-card race.The Mets were playing at Milwaukee, while the Diamondbacks hosted the Padres.The Royals came in with their magic number at one to clinch their first playoff appearance since winning the 2015 World Series. They were still in position to celebrate an AL wild-card berth Friday if the Minnesota Twins lost to Baltimore.Fried (11-10) came within one out of a shutout, giving way to Raisel Iglesias when the Royals put runners at second and third. Iglesias retired Salvador Perez on a flyout for his 33rd save.Fried threw 98 pitches, 63 for strikes. He walked two and struck out nine.Royals starter Brady Singer (9-13) allowed two runs on four hits with three walks and five strikeouts. Murphy homered on an 0-2 pitch in the fourth, and Ozuna tacked on an unlikely insurance run in the eighth by stealing third.Caught off guard, Perez threw the ball into left field, allowing Ozuna to make it home to a giddy celebration in the Atlanta dugout.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: First baseman Vinnie Pasquantino (broken right thumb) was on the field during batting practice and will take simulated at-bats against reliever Will Smith on Saturday.Braves: Starting pitcher Reynaldo López (right shoulder inflammation) threw his second side session Thursday. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker did not indicate when López might be activated.UP NEXTRight-hander Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.03 ERA) will start for the Royals on Saturday. The Braves had not yet announced a starting pitcher. Lugo allowed two runs on three hits over seven innings in his last outing — a 2-0 loss to the Giants on Sept. 22.

⚾ Braves shutout Royals behind Max Fried and Sean Murphy

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

A pair of NCKL foes will square off in St. George on Friday night as the Abilene Cowboys travel north to take on the Rock Creek Mustangs.

Both teams come into this contest at 2-1, with Abilene fresh off a 37-7 blowout of Concordia and Rock Creek coming off a rout of their own 57-0 over Bonner Springs.

The Mustangs are the new kids on the block in the NCKL this year, but have gone toe-to-toe with teams like Clay Center, Marysville, and Abilene year after year.

“We’ve played a lot of NCKL teams in all sports so this is no different,” Rock Creek head coach Shane Sieben said. “We know what to expect out of these teams in all sports but now we’re official members and it adds a little excitement to these rivalries.”

Much of the Cowboy’s success has come on the back of junior quarterback Taygen Funston, who leads the team in passing (13-21, 199 yds, 2 TD, 0 INT), and is second in both rushing (12 carries, 183 yds, 3 TD), and receiving (7 rec, 117 yds, 1 TD).

“Taygen is a great athlete but he’s an even better person,” Abilene head coach Brad Nicks said. “He’s a great competitor, he’s phenomenal in the weight room and he’s such a good leader. His skill set is very unique with what he can do and we can line him up in a lot of different spots. He’s intelligent with the football and he’s always looking for ways he can get better.”

Funston will be a big focal point of the Rock Creek defense, as the Mustangs look to contain one of the most elusive athletes in class 4A.

“[Funston] can beat you in a number of ways,” Sieben said. “You don’t know where he’s going to line up and you don’t know where Rock is going to line up. That’s the toughest challenge they present and for us, we have to recognize where guys are at, play true to our keys and execute assignment-sound, physical football.”

For Abilene, this game will be a true test, as Rock Creek represents the biggest challenge they’re received since their season opener with Clay Center.

“Rock Creek is so fundamentally sound,” Nicks said. “They line up exactly right every single time and they’re very consistent with what they do. They bring back a lot of guys from last year and they’re very well-coached. We have to block and tackle well, to me those are the big things. We have to avoid turnovers and we can’t give up big plays.”

This game also represents a big opportunity for the Mustangs to defend their home turf and collect their first statement victory of the season over another contender.

“Abilene is big and physical up front,” Sieben said. “They’ve got a lot of pieces that can hurt you and they put the ball in their playmakers hands in a lot of different ways. We have to win the turnover battle tonight and make sure we get off the field on third downs.”

Kickoff between the Mustangs and Cowboys is scheduled for 7:00 in St. George, KS.

Tonight’s game can be watched on Salina Post free of charge and will be available for playback any time on-demand. The link to our broadcast is below, and pregame coverage will begin at 6:40.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostA pair of NCKL foes will square off in St. George on Friday night as the Abilene Cowboys travel north to take on the Rock Creek Mustangs.Both teams come into this contest at 2-1, with Abilene fresh off a 37-7 blowout of Concordia and Rock Creek coming off a rout of their own 57-0 over Bonner Springs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Mustangs are the new kids on the block in the NCKL this year, but have gone toe-to-toe with teams like Clay Center, Marysville, and Abilene year after year.“We’ve played a lot of NCKL teams in all sports so this is no different,” Rock Creek head coach Shane Sieben said. “We know what to expect out of these teams in all sports but now we’re official members and it adds a little excitement to these rivalries.”Much of the Cowboy’s success has come on the back of junior quarterback Taygen Funston, who leads the team in passing (13-21, 199 yds, 2 TD, 0 INT), and is second in both rushing (12 carries, 183 yds, 3 TD), and receiving (7 rec, 117 yds, 1 TD).“Taygen is a great athlete but he’s an even better person,” Abilene head coach Brad Nicks said. “He’s a great competitor, he’s phenomenal in the weight room and he’s such a good leader. His skill set is very unique with what he can do and we can line him up in a lot of different spots. He’s intelligent with the football and he’s always looking for ways he can get better.”Funston will be a big focal point of the Rock Creek defense, as the Mustangs look to contain one of the most elusive athletes in class 4A.“[Funston] can beat you in a number of ways,” Sieben said. “You don’t know where he’s going to line up and you don’t know where Rock is going to line up. That’s the toughest challenge they present and for us, we have to recognize where guys are at, play true to our keys and execute assignment-sound, physical football.”For Abilene, this game will be a true test, as Rock Creek represents the biggest challenge they’re received since their season opener with Clay Center.“Rock Creek is so fundamentally sound,” Nicks said. “They line up exactly right every single time and they’re very consistent with what they do. They bring back a lot of guys from last year and they’re very well-coached. We have to block and tackle well, to me those are the big things. We have to avoid turnovers and we can’t give up big plays.”This game also represents a big opportunity for the Mustangs to defend their home turf and collect their first statement victory of the season over another contender.“Abilene is big and physical up front,” Sieben said. “They’ve got a lot of pieces that can hurt you and they put the ball in their playmakers hands in a lot of different ways. We have to win the turnover battle tonight and make sure we get off the field on third downs.”Kickoff between the Mustangs and Cowboys is scheduled for 7:00 in St. George, KS.Tonight’s game can be watched on Salina Post free of charge and will be available for playback any time on-demand. The link to our broadcast is below, and pregame coverage will begin at 6:40.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IRBV89oy_aE"></iframe>
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 </figure>

Abilene and Rock Creek square off in all-NCKL clash on Salina Post Game of the Week

The Junction City Blue Jays host the Manhattan High Indians on Friday night at Blue Jay Stadium. It’s the homecoming game for Junction City.

Manhattan is undefeated at 3-0 heading into the matchup, while Junction City is 1-2.

For the Blue Jays, they’ve had back-to-back losses against top teams in class 6A. First to Lawrence, then to Wichita Northwest last week.

As for Manhattan, they beat Lawrence Free State in week two and then beat Hays in week three.

The Manhattan Indians have won the last three meetings in the rivalry. Junction City’s last victory over Manhattan was in the 2020 season.

You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.

You can also hear the game by clicking <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">here</a>.

Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays host the Manhattan High Indians on Friday night at Blue Jay Stadium. It’s the homecoming game for Junction City.Manhattan is undefeated at 3-0 heading into the matchup, while Junction City is 1-2.For the Blue Jays, they’ve had back-to-back losses against top teams in class 6A. First to Lawrence, then to Wichita Northwest last week.As for Manhattan, they beat Lawrence Free State in week two and then beat Hays in week three.The Manhattan Indians have won the last three meetings in the rivalry. Junction City’s last victory over Manhattan was in the 2020 season.You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.You can also hear the game by clicking <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">here</a>.

Rivalry Week - Junction City hosts Manhattan on Friday night

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kansas City Royals trimmed their magic number to two with a 7-4 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon.

Pinch hitter Adam Frazier’s one-out, line drive base hit to left field in the top of the ninth drove in two runs, breaking a 4-4 tie and guiding the Royals to their third straight win following a seven-game losing streak.

Salvador Perez's second single of the game scored Frazier, chasing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan (3-8).

Hunter Renfroe hit his 14th homer of the season to open the scoring, a 424-feet shot that left the park at 108.4 mph.

Kris Bubic (1-1) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Royals closer Lucas Erceg recorded his third consecutive save in the series — and 14th of the season — with a shut down ninth inning.

Starter Michael Wacha pitched five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits, striking out two and walking one on 83 pitches, 58 for strikes.

In Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin’s final start for the team, the Royals went ahead thanks to five consecutive singles in the third. Tommy Pham, Bobby Witt Jr. and Yuli Gurriel dropped in RBI singles, lifting the Royals to a 4-1 lead.

Nationals second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. hit a three-run homer over the center field wall to tie the game at 4-4, his 17th of the season.

The Nationals ended a franchise record second longest scoring drought at 31 consecutive innings with an unearned run in the first inning. Dylan Crews came around to score their first run since Sept. 21 at Wrigley Field after a dropped infield pop fly by second baseman Maikel Garcia.

Corbin departed to a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the crowd before stepping into the home dugout and receiving high fives from the coaching staff. The 35-year-old pitcher recorded 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts on 73 pitches, 49 for strikes.

Corbin becomes a free agent this winter when his six-year, $240 million contract expires. The two-time All-Star’s signature moment came in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series when he tossed three scoreless innings in relief to earn the series-clinching victory for the Nationals in Houston, but has struggled the last four seasons, compiling 63 losses — the worst in the National League.

Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen left his start Wednesday night after 2 1/3 innings with left leg fatigue but appears on target to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend against the Braves.

“I think it was exactly what we thought it was going to be,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He was just a little fatigued. We just need to alter what he does now that he is not pitching and prioritize making sure that he’s out there when we need him, not worried about building up endurance or strength for the future. It’s about the next time he takes the mound.”

Quatraro said LHP Will Smith (15-day IL, back spasms) is scheduled to throw a live bullpen session Saturday.

Royals: RHP Brady Singer (9-12, 3.73 ERA) takes on Braves LHP Max Fried (10-10, 3.42) Friday night at Truist Park.

Nationals: RHP Trevor Williams (5-1, 2.19) faces the Phillies LHP Ranger Suárez (12-7, 3.15) Friday night at Nationals Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727380870341.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kansas City Royals trimmed their magic number to two with a 7-4 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon.Pinch hitter Adam Frazier’s one-out, line drive base hit to left field in the top of the ninth drove in two runs, breaking a 4-4 tie and guiding the Royals to their third straight win following a seven-game losing streak.Salvador Perez's second single of the game scored Frazier, chasing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan (3-8).Hunter Renfroe hit his 14th homer of the season to open the scoring, a 424-feet shot that left the park at 108.4 mph.Kris Bubic (1-1) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Royals closer Lucas Erceg recorded his third consecutive save in the series — and 14th of the season — with a shut down ninth inning.Starter Michael Wacha pitched five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits, striking out two and walking one on 83 pitches, 58 for strikes.In Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin’s final start for the team, the Royals went ahead thanks to five consecutive singles in the third. Tommy Pham, Bobby Witt Jr. and Yuli Gurriel dropped in RBI singles, lifting the Royals to a 4-1 lead.Nationals second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. hit a three-run homer over the center field wall to tie the game at 4-4, his 17th of the season.The Nationals ended a franchise record second longest scoring drought at 31 consecutive innings with an unearned run in the first inning. Dylan Crews came around to score their first run since Sept. 21 at Wrigley Field after a dropped infield pop fly by second baseman Maikel Garcia.Corbin departed to a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the crowd before stepping into the home dugout and receiving high fives from the coaching staff. The 35-year-old pitcher recorded 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts on 73 pitches, 49 for strikes.Corbin becomes a free agent this winter when his six-year, $240 million contract expires. The two-time All-Star’s signature moment came in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series when he tossed three scoreless innings in relief to earn the series-clinching victory for the Nationals in Houston, but has struggled the last four seasons, compiling 63 losses — the worst in the National League.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Michael Lorenzen left his start Wednesday night after 2 1/3 innings with left leg fatigue but appears on target to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend against the Braves.“I think it was exactly what we thought it was going to be,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He was just a little fatigued. We just need to alter what he does now that he is not pitching and prioritize making sure that he’s out there when we need him, not worried about building up endurance or strength for the future. It’s about the next time he takes the mound.”Quatraro said LHP Will Smith (15-day IL, back spasms) is scheduled to throw a live bullpen session Saturday.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Brady Singer (9-12, 3.73 ERA) takes on Braves LHP Max Fried (10-10, 3.42) Friday night at Truist Park.Nationals: RHP Trevor Williams (5-1, 2.19) faces the Phillies LHP Ranger Suárez (12-7, 3.15) Friday night at Nationals Park.

⚾ Royals earn series sweep of the Nationals; magic number is 2

Washburn Rural hosts
Blue Valley Northwest

Junction City hosts
ManhattanAbilene travels to
Rock CreekChapman hosts Clay
CenterConcordia travels to
MarysvilleCouncil Grove hosts
Riley CountyHerington travels to
MoundridgeTopeka High travels
to EmporiaTopeka Hayden
travels to WamegoWashburn Rural hosts
Blue Valley NorthwestWakefield travels to
Rural Vista

Week 4 Area High School Football Games

WASHINGTON (AP) — Five Kansas City relievers pitched 6 2/3 innings of two-hit ball after starter Michael Lorenzen's early exit, Robbie Grossman hit a two-run double, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.

Michael Massey singled in a run off DJ Herz (4-9) to help lift the Royals to a second-straight shutout victory after a season high-tying seven-game losing streak.

Kansas City and Detroit are both 84-74 but the Royals hold the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Tigers for the second wild-card spot.

Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) worked 2 2/3 scoreless frames in relief of Lorenzen, who exited with lower body fatigue after 2 1/3 innings in his first start since sustaining a left hamstring strain on Aug. 27.

Angel Zerpa, John Schreiber and Sam Long bridged the gap to Lucas Erceg, who completed his 13th save. That effort extended the Kansas City bullpen's scoreless streak to 14 1/3 innings over four games.

James Wood and Nasim Nuñez had the only hits for Washington, which fell to a third consecutive shutout defeat and has lost eight of its last nine games.

Lorenzen cruised through the first two innings but departed with a batter retired in the third after a brief visit from the team medical staff. He threw 28 pitches, striking out two and officially issuing two walks, the latter coming on the at-bat that Lynch completed.

Royals: Kansas City optioned RHP Steven Cruz to Triple-A Omaha to make room for Lorenzen.

Nationals: Manager Davey Martinez confirmed that All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams has reported to the club's complex in West Palm Beach, Florida as planned and will work out there through Sunday. Abrams was demoted from the major league team Saturday for what was termed an internal matter. 

Left-hander Patrick Corbin (6-13, 5.58 ERA) will pitch likely his final game for the Washington Nationals on Thursday. He is the last remaining active Nationals player who was on the 2019 World Series-winning team. His six-year, $140-million contract expires at the end of the season. RHP Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.28) goes for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727314412664.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) gives Washington Nationals' Nasim Nunez his batting helmet back during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) gives Washington Nationals' Nasim Nunez his batting helmet back during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Five Kansas City relievers pitched 6 2/3 innings of two-hit ball after starter Michael Lorenzen's early exit, Robbie Grossman hit a two-run double, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.Michael Massey singled in a run off DJ Herz (4-9) to help lift the Royals to a second-straight shutout victory after a season high-tying seven-game losing streak.Kansas City and Detroit are both 84-74 but the Royals hold the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Tigers for the second wild-card spot.Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) worked 2 2/3 scoreless frames in relief of Lorenzen, who exited with lower body fatigue after 2 1/3 innings in his first start since sustaining a left hamstring strain on Aug. 27.Angel Zerpa, John Schreiber and Sam Long bridged the gap to Lucas Erceg, who completed his 13th save. That effort extended the Kansas City bullpen's scoreless streak to 14 1/3 innings over four games.James Wood and Nasim Nuñez had the only hits for Washington, which fell to a third consecutive shutout defeat and has lost eight of its last nine games.Lorenzen cruised through the first two innings but departed with a batter retired in the third after a brief visit from the team medical staff. He threw 28 pitches, striking out two and officially issuing two walks, the latter coming on the at-bat that Lynch completed.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Kansas City optioned RHP Steven Cruz to Triple-A Omaha to make room for Lorenzen.Nationals: Manager Davey Martinez confirmed that All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams has reported to the club's complex in West Palm Beach, Florida as planned and will work out there through Sunday. Abrams was demoted from the major league team Saturday for what was termed an internal matter. UP NEXTLeft-hander Patrick Corbin (6-13, 5.58 ERA) will pitch likely his final game for the Washington Nationals on Thursday. He is the last remaining active Nationals player who was on the 2019 World Series-winning team. His six-year, $140-million contract expires at the end of the season. RHP Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.28) goes for Kansas City.

⚾ Royals ride bullpen to win over Nationals after Lorenzen's early exit

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head men’s basketball coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;this week previewed the start of practice. The third-year head coach and his staff welcome 14 players for the 2024-25 season, including 3 returning lettermen (senior&nbsp;David N’Guessan&nbsp;and sophomores&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and&nbsp;Macaleab Rich) and 11 newcomers. Among those newcomers are 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (Mobi Ikegwuruka) and a top-50 high school prospect (David Castillo).The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions&nbsp;Achor Achor&nbsp;(Samford),&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins&nbsp;(Illinois),&nbsp;Dug McDaniel&nbsp;(Michigan) and&nbsp;Ugonna Onyenso&nbsp;(Kentucky) as well as&nbsp;Baye Fall&nbsp;(Arkansas),&nbsp;Brendan Hausen&nbsp;(Villanova),&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;(UIC) and&nbsp;Max Jones&nbsp;(Cal State Fullerton).

On feeling comfortable with a team full of newcomers Tang said,&nbsp;“No, I feel really comfortable around them, and I think they feel comfortable around each other. But, you know, in a two-hour practice today, there's probably three or four things I had to stop and explain. You know, what we're doing, why we're doing it, where, you know, if you have guys for a couple years, it's not something that you have to really explain. And so, there's some newness. Tune it to it. But then there's also some community.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Wildcats finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including an 8-10 mark in Big 12 play, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats’ 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in Tang’s first two seasons, including consecutive postseason appearances.The team will have 43 days until their first exhibition game against Fort Hays State on Tuesday, Oct. 29 and 50 days before hosting New Orleans in the opener on Tuesday, Nov. 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head men’s basketball coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;this week previewed the start of practice. The third-year head coach and his staff welcome 14 players for the 2024-25 season, including 3 returning lettermen (senior&nbsp;David N’Guessan&nbsp;and sophomores&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and&nbsp;Macaleab Rich) and 11 newcomers. Among those newcomers are 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (Mobi Ikegwuruka) and a top-50 high school prospect (David Castillo).The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions&nbsp;Achor Achor&nbsp;(Samford),&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins&nbsp;(Illinois),&nbsp;Dug McDaniel&nbsp;(Michigan) and&nbsp;Ugonna Onyenso&nbsp;(Kentucky) as well as&nbsp;Baye Fall&nbsp;(Arkansas),&nbsp;Brendan Hausen&nbsp;(Villanova),&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;(UIC) and&nbsp;Max Jones&nbsp;(Cal State Fullerton).On feeling comfortable with a team full of newcomers Tang said,&nbsp;“No, I feel really comfortable around them, and I think they feel comfortable around each other. But, you know, in a two-hour practice today, there's probably three or four things I had to stop and explain. You know, what we're doing, why we're doing it, where, you know, if you have guys for a couple years, it's not something that you have to really explain. And so, there's some newness. Tune it to it. But then there's also some community.”&nbsp; &nbsp;The Wildcats finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including an 8-10 mark in Big 12 play, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats’ 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in Tang’s first two seasons, including consecutive postseason appearances.The team will have 43 days until their first exhibition game against Fort Hays State on Tuesday, Oct. 29 and 50 days before hosting New Orleans in the opener on Tuesday, Nov. 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;TOM GILBERTDirector for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics

K-State prepares for basketball season

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Kansas State senior linebacker&nbsp;Austin Moore&nbsp;has been named a semifinalist for one of the most prestigious honors in major college football, the William V. Campbell Trophy, the National Football Foundation (NFF) announced Wednesday.

Moore is one of a record-breaking 203 semifinalists from all NCAA divisions and the NAIA for the award that recognizes an individual as the absolute best football scholar-athlete in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.

A native of Louisburg, Kansas, Moore is the 11th Wildcat semifinalist for the award in as many years, joining Tyler Lockett (2014), Stanton Weber (2015), Will Davis (2016), Trent Tanking (2017), Dalton Risner (2018), Adam Holtorf (2019), Tyler Burns (2020), Landry Weber (2021), Adrian Martinez (2022) and Cooper Beebe (2023). Lockett, Risner, Holtorf, Martinez and Beebe were all named finalists for the award.

“These 203 semifinalists reflect not only exceptional academic and athletic talent but also the deep-rooted leadership that shows a commitment to excellence in all aspects of their lives, which is learned on the gridiron,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning. “The Campbell Trophy continues to represent the pinnacle of what it means to be a scholar-athlete, and this year's candidates exemplify how football builds future leaders who will undoubtedly shape tomorrow’s world.”

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Kansas State senior linebacker&nbsp;Austin Moore&nbsp;has been named a semifinalist for one of the most prestigious honors in major college football, the William V. Campbell Trophy, the National Football Foundation (NFF) announced Wednesday.Moore is one of a record-breaking 203 semifinalists from all NCAA divisions and the NAIA for the award that recognizes an individual as the absolute best football scholar-athlete in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.A native of Louisburg, Kansas, Moore is the 11th Wildcat semifinalist for the award in as many years, joining Tyler Lockett (2014), Stanton Weber (2015), Will Davis (2016), Trent Tanking (2017), Dalton Risner (2018), Adam Holtorf (2019), Tyler Burns (2020), Landry Weber (2021), Adrian Martinez (2022) and Cooper Beebe (2023). Lockett, Risner, Holtorf, Martinez and Beebe were all named finalists for the award.“These 203 semifinalists reflect not only exceptional academic and athletic talent but also the deep-rooted leadership that shows a commitment to excellence in all aspects of their lives, which is learned on the gridiron,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning. “The Campbell Trophy continues to represent the pinnacle of what it means to be a scholar-athlete, and this year's candidates exemplify how football builds future leaders who will undoubtedly shape tomorrow’s world.”

K-State’s Moore Named Semifinalist for Campbell Trophy

WASHINGTON (AP) — Kyle Isbel snapped Kansas City's 27-inning scoreless streak by sprinting home on a throwing error in the 10th inning, Cole Ragans gave up three hits in six innings, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 1-0 victory over the Washington Nationals on Tuesday night.

Isbel, the Royals' automatic runner to begin the 10th, reached third on Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield single to short and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1838764184055513162">crossed the plate on Nasim Nuñez's low throw</a>&nbsp;to first to end Kansas City's seven-game slide.

“It’s a little bit of a sigh of relief," Ragans said. “We knew it’s going to come down to probably a game like this to get us back on track.”

Kansas City and Detroit are both 83-74 but the Royals own the head-to-head tiebreaker. Both teams are two games up on Minnesota.

After three games without a hit with a runner in scoring position, the Royals were 2 for 11 in that situation Tuesday, though neither plated a run.

“There’s definitely frustration, but I think tonight it was more like, disbelief,” said Royals manager Matt Quatraro. “We know we’re too good a team to have that continue for a long period of time.”

Kyle Finnegan (3-7) escaped the 10th without further damage, but the Nationals lost for the seventh time in eight games.

“Our defense was good until that one play,” said Nats manager Dave Martinez. “It really came down to one play, and execution, and not being able to hit the ball.”

Lucas Erceg worked a clean 10th for his 12th save and ninth with the Royals, striking out Joey Gallo for the final out after the Nationals slugger hooked a 3-2 offering just to the foul side of the right-field foul pole.

"You can never count your chickens there that you’re going to strand the runner," Quatraro said of Erceg, whom Kansas City acquired in a trade from Oakland at this year's deadline. “But you certainly like your chances.”

Ragans struck out six in his fourth consecutive outing of six innings or more to lower his September ERA to 1.08.

Kris Bubic stranded a runner on third in the seventh, Sam Long pitched a scoreless eighth and Angel Zerpa (2-0) threw a perfect ninth to get the game to extra innings.

Royals: RHP Hunter Harvey (back) will be shut down for the season. The reliever hasn't appeared since Aug. 4, and will get another medical opinion. “He's going to go see someone in Dallas to see if they can find something different, but by all accounts, we think it's just going to be rest” that he needs, said Quatraro. ... RHP James McArthur (right elbow), who last pitched on Sept. 16, also won't return this season. ... RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring) remains on track to return from the injured list to make Wednesday’s start, Quatraro said.

Nationals: Recalled OF Stone Garrett from Triple-A Rochester and placed INF Andrés Chaparro on the paternity list.

Lorenzen (7-6, 3.43 ERA) will try to continue his excellent form since joining the Royals from Texas at the deadline. He has a 1.85 ERA and 2-0 record in five starts with Kansas City. He'll face rookie lefty DJ Herz (4-8, 4.30).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727234094702.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Kyle Isbel runs towards home to score on a throwing error by Washington Nationals shortstop Nasim Nunez during the 10th inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Kyle Isbel runs towards home to score on a throwing error by Washington Nationals shortstop Nasim Nunez during the 10th inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Kyle Isbel snapped Kansas City's 27-inning scoreless streak by sprinting home on a throwing error in the 10th inning, Cole Ragans gave up three hits in six innings, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 1-0 victory over the Washington Nationals on Tuesday night.Isbel, the Royals' automatic runner to begin the 10th, reached third on Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield single to short and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1838764184055513162">crossed the plate on Nasim Nuñez's low throw</a>&nbsp;to first to end Kansas City's seven-game slide.“It’s a little bit of a sigh of relief," Ragans said. “We knew it’s going to come down to probably a game like this to get us back on track.”Kansas City and Detroit are both 83-74 but the Royals own the head-to-head tiebreaker. Both teams are two games up on Minnesota.After three games without a hit with a runner in scoring position, the Royals were 2 for 11 in that situation Tuesday, though neither plated a run.“There’s definitely frustration, but I think tonight it was more like, disbelief,” said Royals manager Matt Quatraro. “We know we’re too good a team to have that continue for a long period of time.”Kyle Finnegan (3-7) escaped the 10th without further damage, but the Nationals lost for the seventh time in eight games.“Our defense was good until that one play,” said Nats manager Dave Martinez. “It really came down to one play, and execution, and not being able to hit the ball.”Lucas Erceg worked a clean 10th for his 12th save and ninth with the Royals, striking out Joey Gallo for the final out after the Nationals slugger hooked a 3-2 offering just to the foul side of the right-field foul pole."You can never count your chickens there that you’re going to strand the runner," Quatraro said of Erceg, whom Kansas City acquired in a trade from Oakland at this year's deadline. “But you certainly like your chances.”Ragans struck out six in his fourth consecutive outing of six innings or more to lower his September ERA to 1.08.Kris Bubic stranded a runner on third in the seventh, Sam Long pitched a scoreless eighth and Angel Zerpa (2-0) threw a perfect ninth to get the game to extra innings.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: RHP Hunter Harvey (back) will be shut down for the season. The reliever hasn't appeared since Aug. 4, and will get another medical opinion. “He's going to go see someone in Dallas to see if they can find something different, but by all accounts, we think it's just going to be rest” that he needs, said Quatraro. ... RHP James McArthur (right elbow), who last pitched on Sept. 16, also won't return this season. ... RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring) remains on track to return from the injured list to make Wednesday’s start, Quatraro said.Nationals: Recalled OF Stone Garrett from Triple-A Rochester and placed INF Andrés Chaparro on the paternity list.UP NEXTLorenzen (7-6, 3.43 ERA) will try to continue his excellent form since joining the Royals from Texas at the deadline. He has a 1.85 ERA and 2-0 record in five starts with Kansas City. He'll face rookie lefty DJ Herz (4-8, 4.30).

⚾ Royals top Nationals in 10 and hold on to 2nd in AL wild card race

WASHINGTON (AP) — Retired NFL quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brett-favre-mississippi-welfare-money-nfl-59d5047f9e8b1cd6055f13697eea7027">Brett Favre</a>&nbsp;has been diagnosed with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/40d578574b5d419d82a427575b045c03">Parkinson’s disease</a>, he told a congressional committee Tuesday.

Favre made the disclosure as part of his testimony about a welfare misspending scandal in Mississippi. Favre, who does not face criminal charges, has repaid just over $1 million in speaking fees funded by a welfare program in the state and was also an investor in a biotech company with ties to the case. The biotech firm has said it was developing concussion treatments.

The former football star told the committee that he lost his investment in the company “that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others.”

“As I’m sure you’ll understand, while it’s too late for me — I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s — this is also a cause dear to my heart,” Favre said.

What causes Parkinson's disease is unknown, and it is unclear if Favre's disease is connected to his football career or head injuries. He said in 2022 that he estimates he experienced “thousands” of concussions in his two decades in the NFL.

Favre appeared at the Republican-led House Ways and Means Committee hearing to advocate reform of the federal welfare system to better prevent fraud.

“The challenges my family and I have faced over the last three years—because certain government officials in Mississippi failed to protect federal TANF funds from fraud and abuse, and are unjustifiably trying to blame me, those challenges have hurt my good name and are worse than anything I faced in football,” Favre said.

<a href="https://waysandmeans.house.gov/2022/11/16/in-light-of-favre-welfare-scandal-gop-members-renew-calls-for-accountability/">House Republicans</a>&nbsp;have said a Mississippi welfare misspending scandal involving Favre and others points to the need for an overhaul in the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-sports-general-football-brett-favre-us-news-ff86e556f25aee92aef15da86c2cc915">Favre has said he didn’t know</a>&nbsp;the payments he received came from welfare funds and has noted his charity had provided millions of dollars to poor kids in his home state of Mississippi and in Wisconsin, where he played most of his career with the Green Bay Packers.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Retired NFL quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brett-favre-mississippi-welfare-money-nfl-59d5047f9e8b1cd6055f13697eea7027">Brett Favre</a>&nbsp;has been diagnosed with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/40d578574b5d419d82a427575b045c03">Parkinson’s disease</a>, he told a congressional committee Tuesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">During his opening statement before Congress, <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettFavre?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrettFavre</a> says he&#39;s recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Full video here: <a href="https://t.co/bANW0t3SK6">https://t.co/bANW0t3SK6</a> <a href="https://t.co/IFQzqC847M">pic.twitter.com/IFQzqC847M</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1838592945483612597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Favre made the disclosure as part of his testimony about a welfare misspending scandal in Mississippi. Favre, who does not face criminal charges, has repaid just over $1 million in speaking fees funded by a welfare program in the state and was also an investor in a biotech company with ties to the case. The biotech firm has said it was developing concussion treatments.The former football star told the committee that he lost his investment in the company “that I believed was developing a breakthrough concussion drug I thought would help others.”“As I’m sure you’ll understand, while it’s too late for me — I’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s — this is also a cause dear to my heart,” Favre said.What causes Parkinson's disease is unknown, and it is unclear if Favre's disease is connected to his football career or head injuries. He said in 2022 that he estimates he experienced “thousands” of concussions in his two decades in the NFL.Favre appeared at the Republican-led House Ways and Means Committee hearing to advocate reform of the federal welfare system to better prevent fraud.“The challenges my family and I have faced over the last three years—because certain government officials in Mississippi failed to protect federal TANF funds from fraud and abuse, and are unjustifiably trying to blame me, those challenges have hurt my good name and are worse than anything I faced in football,” Favre said.<a href="https://waysandmeans.house.gov/2022/11/16/in-light-of-favre-welfare-scandal-gop-members-renew-calls-for-accountability/">House Republicans</a>&nbsp;have said a Mississippi welfare misspending scandal involving Favre and others points to the need for an overhaul in the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-sports-general-football-brett-favre-us-news-ff86e556f25aee92aef15da86c2cc915">Favre has said he didn’t know</a>&nbsp;the payments he received came from welfare funds and has noted his charity had provided millions of dollars to poor kids in his home state of Mississippi and in Wisconsin, where he played most of his career with the Green Bay Packers.

🎥Retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre says he has Parkinson’s disease

ATLANTA (AP) — Patrick Mahomes knows he must get better.

Thanks to a couple of stifling stands from Kansas City's defense, the two-time reigning Super Bowl champs are still unbeaten.

Mahomes shook off another interception to throw a pair of touchdown passes and the Chiefs defense stopped Atlanta twice on fourth down in the closing minutes, preserving a 22-17 victory over the Falcons on Sunday night.

“It helps when you have a defense that’s been in those moments before and is able to make those big plays,” Mahomes said. “It’s a team game and we’re winning games and I feel like we’re gonna start getting better and better each and every week.”

The Chiefs (3-0) have been far from perfect, that's for sure — Mahomes points to himself more than anyone — but their record has remained unblemished by a combined 13 points.

Coming off an upset victory at Philadelphia, the Falcons (1-2) had a couple of shots at the go-ahead touchdown in the closing minutes.

Kirk Cousins threw a pair of incompletions in the end zone from the Chiefs 6 after the Falcons passed up a shot at a field goal with just over 4 minute remaining.

Atlanta got the ball back, drove down the field with help from a couple of penalties, and had third-and-1 at the Kansas City 13. Tyler Allgeier was stuffed for no gain and Bijan Robinson was thrown for&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/i/status/1838055793762963661">a 3-yard loss</a>&nbsp;by Nick Bolton on fourth down with less than a minute remaining.

Bolton said he recognized what play the Falcons were running before they snapped the ball.

“Trust my keys, trust my eyes, trust the play call we had,” he said. “I already knew where I was going.”

Mahomes threw for 217 yards, including scoring throws to Rashee Rice and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/i/status/1838043830265819572">JuJu Smith-Schuster</a>, and Harrison Butker booted three field goals for the Chiefs.

Cousins was 20 of 29 for 230 yards with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Drake London and a 50-yard completion to Kyle Pitts that set up Robinson's 1-yard scoring run.

“I feel like we’ve left a lot of opportunities out there on the field,” Cousins said. “I look forward to getting better.”

Riding the momentum from their last-minute stunner at Philadelphia, the Falcons took the opening kickoff and quickly drove 70 yards for a touchdown.

Cousins completed all five of his passes for 66 yards, including a 14-yard scoring toss to Drake London — who also caught the winning score against the Eagles. London wound up all alone in the end zone on a busted coverage by the Chiefs.

Mahomes bounced back from his fourth interception of the season to take Kansas City on a 13-play, 79-yard drive that ended with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Rice.

The Falcons reclaimed the lead on Robinson’s 1-yard touchdown run, which was set up by Cousins’ 50-yard pass to Kyle Pitts.

But Atlanta’s offensive line took a pair of hits when right tackle Kaleb McGary and center Drew Dalman both went out with injuries. With a pair of backups joining their ranks, the guys up from struggled to keep the pressure off Cousins, who was sacked twice and hit 10 more times as he threw, spending much of the night picking himself off the turf at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

One of those hits resulted in a wobbly pass that was picked off by Chamarri Conner, setting up Butker's 44-yard field goal that sliced the Falcons’ edge to 14-13 at halftime.

Butker put the Chiefs ahead to stay on a 21-yard chip shot in the third quarter, and Kansas City stretched the lead on Mahomes’ 13-yard touchdown pass to Smith-Schuster late in the third quarter.

For the third game in a row, Travis Kelce was not much of a factor. The star tight end had four catches for 30 yards.

With Kansas City running back&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-pacheco-injury-5a299988d5e757e798571eaffe8fc1fe">Isiah Pacheco</a>&nbsp;sidelined with an ankle injury, the Chiefs got good production from his replacements.

Carson Steele, an undrafted rookie, led the way with 17 bruising carries for 72 yards. Samaje Perine chipped in with six carries for 25 yards, to go along with three catches for 15 yards.

“I had a lot of trust there,” Mahomes said. “You lose some of that juice that Isaiah has. I mean, there’s not a lot of people that are that fired up after every run. But I thought the guys did a great job.”

After a disputed pass interference penalty on fourth-and-long set up their victory over Cincinnati the previous week, the Chiefs might have gotten away with one against the Falcons.

On third-and-goal from the Kansas City 6, Cousins looked toward Pitts in the back of the end zone. With his back to the quarterback, safety Bryan Cook appeared to collide with Pitts just before the ball arrived.

But the officials did not throw a flag, and Cousins' fourth-down pass also fell incomplete.

“That is a real-time call that officials have to make a judgment on," referee Tra Blake told a pool reporter. "We do the best we can to make that decision.”

Chiefs: Bolton hobbled off the field early in the fourth quarter after an awkward landing, but he came back to make the big stop on Robinson.

Falcons: McGary and Dalman both went out in the second quarter. McGary was helped off the field with a knee injury and replaced by Storm Norton. Dalman was replaced by Ryan Neuzil after being sidelined with an ankle issue.

Chiefs: Stay on the road for another week when they visit Los Angeles next Sunday to face the Chargers (2-1) in an AFC West matchup.

Falcons: Play the second of three straight home games when their NFC South rival, the New Orleans Saints (2-1), visit Atlanta next Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727085618674.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Patrick Mahomes knows he must get better.Not to worry.Thanks to a couple of stifling stands from Kansas City's defense, the two-time reigning Super Bowl champs are still unbeaten.Mahomes shook off another interception to throw a pair of touchdown passes and the Chiefs defense stopped Atlanta twice on fourth down in the closing minutes, preserving a 22-17 victory over the Falcons on Sunday night.“It helps when you have a defense that’s been in those moments before and is able to make those big plays,” Mahomes said. “It’s a team game and we’re winning games and I feel like we’re gonna start getting better and better each and every week.”The Chiefs (3-0) have been far from perfect, that's for sure — Mahomes points to himself more than anyone — but their record has remained unblemished by a combined 13 points.Coming off an upset victory at Philadelphia, the Falcons (1-2) had a couple of shots at the go-ahead touchdown in the closing minutes.Kirk Cousins threw a pair of incompletions in the end zone from the Chiefs 6 after the Falcons passed up a shot at a field goal with just over 4 minute remaining.Atlanta got the ball back, drove down the field with help from a couple of penalties, and had third-and-1 at the Kansas City 13. Tyler Allgeier was stuffed for no gain and Bijan Robinson was thrown for&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/i/status/1838055793762963661">a 3-yard loss</a>&nbsp;by Nick Bolton on fourth down with less than a minute remaining.Bolton said he recognized what play the Falcons were running before they snapped the ball.“Trust my keys, trust my eyes, trust the play call we had,” he said. “I already knew where I was going.”Mahomes threw for 217 yards, including scoring throws to Rashee Rice and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/i/status/1838043830265819572">JuJu Smith-Schuster</a>, and Harrison Butker booted three field goals for the Chiefs.Cousins was 20 of 29 for 230 yards with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Drake London and a 50-yard completion to Kyle Pitts that set up Robinson's 1-yard scoring run.“I feel like we’ve left a lot of opportunities out there on the field,” Cousins said. “I look forward to getting better.”Riding the momentum from their last-minute stunner at Philadelphia, the Falcons took the opening kickoff and quickly drove 70 yards for a touchdown.Cousins completed all five of his passes for 66 yards, including a 14-yard scoring toss to Drake London — who also caught the winning score against the Eagles. London wound up all alone in the end zone on a busted coverage by the Chiefs.Mahomes bounced back from his fourth interception of the season to take Kansas City on a 13-play, 79-yard drive that ended with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Rice.The Falcons reclaimed the lead on Robinson’s 1-yard touchdown run, which was set up by Cousins’ 50-yard pass to Kyle Pitts.But Atlanta’s offensive line took a pair of hits when right tackle Kaleb McGary and center Drew Dalman both went out with injuries. With a pair of backups joining their ranks, the guys up from struggled to keep the pressure off Cousins, who was sacked twice and hit 10 more times as he threw, spending much of the night picking himself off the turf at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.One of those hits resulted in a wobbly pass that was picked off by Chamarri Conner, setting up Butker's 44-yard field goal that sliced the Falcons’ edge to 14-13 at halftime.Butker put the Chiefs ahead to stay on a 21-yard chip shot in the third quarter, and Kansas City stretched the lead on Mahomes’ 13-yard touchdown pass to Smith-Schuster late in the third quarter.For the third game in a row, Travis Kelce was not much of a factor. The star tight end had four catches for 30 yards.<h2>Running back replacements</h2>With Kansas City running back&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-pacheco-injury-5a299988d5e757e798571eaffe8fc1fe">Isiah Pacheco</a>&nbsp;sidelined with an ankle injury, the Chiefs got good production from his replacements.Carson Steele, an undrafted rookie, led the way with 17 bruising carries for 72 yards. Samaje Perine chipped in with six carries for 25 yards, to go along with three catches for 15 yards.“I had a lot of trust there,” Mahomes said. “You lose some of that juice that Isaiah has. I mean, there’s not a lot of people that are that fired up after every run. But I thought the guys did a great job.”<h2>Controversial no-call</h2>After a disputed pass interference penalty on fourth-and-long set up their victory over Cincinnati the previous week, the Chiefs might have gotten away with one against the Falcons.On third-and-goal from the Kansas City 6, Cousins looked toward Pitts in the back of the end zone. With his back to the quarterback, safety Bryan Cook appeared to collide with Pitts just before the ball arrived.But the officials did not throw a flag, and Cousins' fourth-down pass also fell incomplete.“That is a real-time call that officials have to make a judgment on," referee Tra Blake told a pool reporter. "We do the best we can to make that decision.”<h2>Injury report</h2>Chiefs: Bolton hobbled off the field early in the fourth quarter after an awkward landing, but he came back to make the big stop on Robinson.Falcons: McGary and Dalman both went out in the second quarter. McGary was helped off the field with a knee injury and replaced by Storm Norton. Dalman was replaced by Ryan Neuzil after being sidelined with an ankle issue.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: Stay on the road for another week when they visit Los Angeles next Sunday to face the Chargers (2-1) in an AFC West matchup.Falcons: Play the second of three straight home games when their NFC South rival, the New Orleans Saints (2-1), visit Atlanta next Sunday.___

🏈 Mahomes throws 2 touchdown passes to lead Chiefs over the Falcons

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Blake Snell struck out nine in six strong innings and the San Francisco Giants completed a three-game series sweep with a 2-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

Kansas City was shut out for the second straight game and lost its seventh straight. The Royals dropped into a tie with Detroit (82-74) in the race for an AL wild card. Minnesota is a half-game back of Kansas City and the Tigers, pending the outcome of its second game of a doubleheader against Boston.

Snell (5-3) allowed two singles and a walk and didn't allow a runner past first base. In his last 14 starts, he is 5-0 with a 1.23 ERA and 114 strikeouts.

Royals’ batters were 1 for 13 when Snell threw a first-pitch strike. Opponents are hitting .121 this season when the 31-year-old left-hander gets ahead in the count.

With one out in the second, Grant McCray lined an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/seth-lugo-in-play-run-s-to-grant-mccray">RBI triple to right-center</a>&nbsp;and scored on Brett Wisely’s two-out hit. McCray snapped an 0-for-13 skid with his first extra-base hit since Sept. 7.

Kansas City's Seth Lugo (16-9) retired the next 16 batters and finished with five strikeouts and two runs allowed through seven innings.

Three Giants relievers struck out four and Ryan Walker earned his ninth save.

San Francisco completed its first series sweep of Kansas City and its first series sweep against an American League opponent since April 15-17, 2022, at Cleveland.

The Royals have scored four runs in their last five games and have held a lead in just one of their last 50 innings.

Kansas City lost by shutout in consecutive games for the second time this season and the first time since June 22-23 at Texas.

Giants: RHP Hayden Birdsong (4-5, 4.74 ERA) opposes Diamondbacks LHP Eduardo Rodriguez (3-3, 5.09) in Arizona on Monday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Blake Snell struck out nine in six strong innings and the San Francisco Giants completed a three-game series sweep with a 2-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.Kansas City was shut out for the second straight game and lost its seventh straight. The Royals dropped into a tie with Detroit (82-74) in the race for an AL wild card. Minnesota is a half-game back of Kansas City and the Tigers, pending the outcome of its second game of a doubleheader against Boston.Snell (5-3) allowed two singles and a walk and didn't allow a runner past first base. In his last 14 starts, he is 5-0 with a 1.23 ERA and 114 strikeouts.Royals’ batters were 1 for 13 when Snell threw a first-pitch strike. Opponents are hitting .121 this season when the 31-year-old left-hander gets ahead in the count.With one out in the second, Grant McCray lined an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/seth-lugo-in-play-run-s-to-grant-mccray">RBI triple to right-center</a>&nbsp;and scored on Brett Wisely’s two-out hit. McCray snapped an 0-for-13 skid with his first extra-base hit since Sept. 7.Kansas City's Seth Lugo (16-9) retired the next 16 batters and finished with five strikeouts and two runs allowed through seven innings.Three Giants relievers struck out four and Ryan Walker earned his ninth save.San Francisco completed its first series sweep of Kansas City and its first series sweep against an American League opponent since April 15-17, 2022, at Cleveland.The Royals have scored four runs in their last five games and have held a lead in just one of their last 50 innings.Kansas City lost by shutout in consecutive games for the second time this season and the first time since June 22-23 at Texas.UP NEXTGiants: RHP Hayden Birdsong (4-5, 4.74 ERA) opposes Diamondbacks LHP Eduardo Rodriguez (3-3, 5.09) in Arizona on Monday.

⚾ Snell strikes out 9 as Giants complete series sweep of Royals

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and ESPN announced Sunday that Kansas State’s Big 12 home opener against Oklahoma State will kick at 11 a.m., and will be televised by ESPN.

Kansas State will be in search of its second-straight home victory over the Cowboys for the first time since 2012 and 2014. Two years ago in Manhattan, K-State earned a 48-0 shutout over ninth-ranked OSU, which was the largest ever shutout win by a lower-ranked team against a team ranked in the top 10 of the Associated Press Top 25.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and ESPN announced Sunday that Kansas State’s Big 12 home opener against Oklahoma State will kick at 11 a.m., and will be televised by ESPN.Kansas State will be in search of its second-straight home victory over the Cowboys for the first time since 2012 and 2014. Two years ago in Manhattan, K-State earned a 48-0 shutout over ninth-ranked OSU, which was the largest ever shutout win by a lower-ranked team against a team ranked in the top 10 of the Associated Press Top 25.

K-State’s Big 12 home opener slated for morning kick 

PROVO, Utah (AP) — BYU’s defense forced three turnovers, Jake Retzlaff threw for 149 yards and two touchdowns and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Big12Conference/status/1837714080649371736">Parker Kingston had a highlight reel 90-yard punt return touchdown</a>&nbsp;in a 38-9 victory over No. 13 Kansas State on Saturday night.

Sione Moa added a career-high 76 yards and a touchdown on the ground. The Cougars (4-0, 1-0 Big 12) snapped a five-game losing streak to Big 12 opponents in emphatic fashion.

“A lot of people were surprised by this. They didn’t really think we could do this,” Moa said. “This is not a surprise to us. We know the work we put in to get to this point.”

Avery Johnson piled up 204 yards of total offense for the Wildcats but also threw a pair of interceptions. DJ Giddens rushed for 93 yards on 19 carries as Kansas State (3-1, 0-1) dropped to 0-4 all-time in Provo despite totaling 224 rushing yards. The Wildcats did not score a touchdown in a game for the first time since 2020.

“We just shot ourselves in the foot too many times and we got to score touchdowns,” Johnson said. “You got to take care of the football on the road if you want to win games.”

BYU scored a pair of touchdowns 39 seconds apart before halftime after forcing turnovers on back-to-back Kansas State drives.

Jack Kelly stripped the ball from Giddens on a third-down run and Tommy Prassas took the fumble 30 yards to the house, giving the Cougars their first lead, 10-6. Tyler Batty intercepted Johnson two plays later at the Wildcats 29. His takeaway set up a 23-yard touchdown catch by Chase Roberts that gave BYU a 17-6 lead going into halftime.

“You got to make them earn it all and eventually we were able to crack the code a little bit and get some turnovers and create some momentum and then you saw the result,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said.

Johnson tossed his second interception to Harrison Taggart on Kansas State’s opening drive of the second half. Taggart’s pick and a subsequent 24-yard sprint by Moa set up a 3-yard TD catch by Darius Lassiter and extended BYU’s lead to 24-6.

After the defense forced a three-and-out, Kingston nearly fumbled the ensuing punt but managed to scoop up the ball, cut over to the opposite sideline and race 90 yards for a touchdown. His score put BYU up 31-6 less than five minutes into the third quarter.

“It was stunning to see that,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “We got embarrassed and that hasn’t happened here since the Covid year.”

A 22-yard touchdown run by Moa early in the fourth capped the night for the Cougars.

Kansas State: The Wildcats gashed BYU with long runs on their first two drives, totaling 117 rushing yards and averaging 6.9 yards per carry, but only came away with a pair of field goals before the wheels fell off on offense.

BYU: Forcing turnovers on three straight Kansas State drives helped the Cougars turn a close game into a blowout early in the second half. BYU scored 31 unanswered points in a 6 1/2-minute span bridging the second and third quarters.

BYU has not allowed a touchdown in both games it has played against fellow Power Four schools thus far. The Cougars held SMU to five field goals in an 18-15 win over the Mustangs in week two and then limited Kansas State to three field goals on three trips to the red zone on Saturday.

“We already know what we’re capable of,” linebacker Isaiah Glasker said. “It’s really just showing other people what we can do.”

Moa was buried on the running back depth chart to start the season but injuries to LJ Martin and Hinckley Ropati led to the freshman making his first career start. He had just 17 yards on six carries before finishing with 76 yards as BYU’s lead back.

“I was pretty surprised I got a lot of these reps,” Moa said.

A lopsided loss to BYU could send Kansas State tumbling out of the AP Top 25 on Sunday. BYU could also work its way into the rankings.

Kansas State hosts Oklahoma State on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727004907183.png" alt="Photo BYU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo BYU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVO, Utah (AP) — BYU’s defense forced three turnovers, Jake Retzlaff threw for 149 yards and two touchdowns and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Big12Conference/status/1837714080649371736">Parker Kingston had a highlight reel 90-yard punt return touchdown</a>&nbsp;in a 38-9 victory over No. 13 Kansas State on Saturday night.Sione Moa added a career-high 76 yards and a touchdown on the ground. The Cougars (4-0, 1-0 Big 12) snapped a five-game losing streak to Big 12 opponents in emphatic fashion.“A lot of people were surprised by this. They didn’t really think we could do this,” Moa said. “This is not a surprise to us. We know the work we put in to get to this point.”Avery Johnson piled up 204 yards of total offense for the Wildcats but also threw a pair of interceptions. DJ Giddens rushed for 93 yards on 19 carries as Kansas State (3-1, 0-1) dropped to 0-4 all-time in Provo despite totaling 224 rushing yards. The Wildcats did not score a touchdown in a game for the first time since 2020.“We just shot ourselves in the foot too many times and we got to score touchdowns,” Johnson said. “You got to take care of the football on the road if you want to win games.”BYU scored a pair of touchdowns 39 seconds apart before halftime after forcing turnovers on back-to-back Kansas State drives.Jack Kelly stripped the ball from Giddens on a third-down run and Tommy Prassas took the fumble 30 yards to the house, giving the Cougars their first lead, 10-6. Tyler Batty intercepted Johnson two plays later at the Wildcats 29. His takeaway set up a 23-yard touchdown catch by Chase Roberts that gave BYU a 17-6 lead going into halftime.“You got to make them earn it all and eventually we were able to crack the code a little bit and get some turnovers and create some momentum and then you saw the result,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said.Johnson tossed his second interception to Harrison Taggart on Kansas State’s opening drive of the second half. Taggart’s pick and a subsequent 24-yard sprint by Moa set up a 3-yard TD catch by Darius Lassiter and extended BYU’s lead to 24-6.After the defense forced a three-and-out, Kingston nearly fumbled the ensuing punt but managed to scoop up the ball, cut over to the opposite sideline and race 90 yards for a touchdown. His score put BYU up 31-6 less than five minutes into the third quarter.“It was stunning to see that,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “We got embarrassed and that hasn’t happened here since the Covid year.”A 22-yard touchdown run by Moa early in the fourth capped the night for the Cougars.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas State: The Wildcats gashed BYU with long runs on their first two drives, totaling 117 rushing yards and averaging 6.9 yards per carry, but only came away with a pair of field goals before the wheels fell off on offense.BYU: Forcing turnovers on three straight Kansas State drives helped the Cougars turn a close game into a blowout early in the second half. BYU scored 31 unanswered points in a 6 1/2-minute span bridging the second and third quarters.<h2>No Touchdowns Allowed</h2>BYU has not allowed a touchdown in both games it has played against fellow Power Four schools thus far. The Cougars held SMU to five field goals in an 18-15 win over the Mustangs in week two and then limited Kansas State to three field goals on three trips to the red zone on Saturday.“We already know what we’re capable of,” linebacker Isaiah Glasker said. “It’s really just showing other people what we can do.”<h2>Breakout Game</h2>Moa was buried on the running back depth chart to start the season but injuries to LJ Martin and Hinckley Ropati led to the freshman making his first career start. He had just 17 yards on six carries before finishing with 76 yards as BYU’s lead back.“I was pretty surprised I got a lot of these reps,” Moa said.<h2>Poll Implications</h2>A lopsided loss to BYU could send Kansas State tumbling out of the AP Top 25 on Sunday. BYU could also work its way into the rankings.Up NextKansas State hosts Oklahoma State on Saturday.BYU is at Baylor on Saturday.

🏈 BYU forces 3 turnovers in rout of No. 13 Kansas State

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — LaMonte Wade Jr. and Matt Chapman hit two home runs each, Landen Roupp pitched five scoreless innings for his first major league win, and the San Francisco Giants handed the Kansas City Royals their sixth straight loss, 9-0 on Saturday.

The Royals are clinging to the AL's second wild-card berth. Kansas City’s lead over the Minnesota Twins — who were rained out Saturday — was reduced to a half game. The Tigers are another one half game behind the Twins.

Wade put the Giants ahead with two out in the first inning, lining a first-pitch solo homer above the right field bullpen.

Wade led off the fourth with a drive down the right field line and Chapman followed with a blast to straightaway center, marking the seventh time the Giants have had back-to-back homers this season. It was the first multi-homer game of Wade's career.

The Giants batted around and scored six runs in the sixth for a 9-0 lead. Chapman hit his 26th of the season with one out for his 12th career multi-homer game.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — LaMonte Wade Jr. and Matt Chapman hit two home runs each, Landen Roupp pitched five scoreless innings for his first major league win, and the San Francisco Giants handed the Kansas City Royals their sixth straight loss, 9-0 on Saturday.The Royals are clinging to the AL's second wild-card berth. Kansas City’s lead over the Minnesota Twins — who were rained out Saturday — was reduced to a half game. The Tigers are another one half game behind the Twins.Wade put the Giants ahead with two out in the first inning, lining a first-pitch solo homer above the right field bullpen.Wade led off the fourth with a drive down the right field line and Chapman followed with a blast to straightaway center, marking the seventh time the Giants have had back-to-back homers this season. It was the first multi-homer game of Wade's career.The Giants batted around and scored six runs in the sixth for a 9-0 lead. Chapman hit his 26th of the season with one out for his 12th career multi-homer game.Curt Casali added a two-run single and Mike Yastrzemski capped the frame with a three-run homer. Yastrzemski has five home runs in his last 10 games and 18 this season.Roupp (1-1), making his third career start shut out the Royals on three hits, walking three and striking out three, holding Kansas City hitters to 0 for 9 with runners in scoring position.Brady Singer (9-12) allowed six runs on seven hits and a walk with six strikeouts and a season-high four home runs over 5 1/3 innings.The Giants have won four of five games, hitting nine home runs and outscoring opponents 29-9.MJ Melendez had two hits for the Royals, who have lost six straight while hitting 8 for 52 with runners in scoring position in that stretch.TRANSACTIONS:Giants: IF Matt Chapman was reinstated from paternity list. ... IF Marco Luciano was optioned to Triple-A Sacramento.UP NEXTGiants LHP Blake Snell (4-3, 3.31 ERA) opposes RHP Seth Lugo (16-8, 3.05) in the Royals final regular-season home game on Sunday.