OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — David Castillo scored 19 points, Abdi Bashir Jr. added 18 and Kansas State built an early double-digit lead in the second half and held off Creighton for an 83-76 victory on Saturday.

Castillo was 7-of-11 shooting and Bashir hit 6 of 12 from 3-point range. Khamari McGriff added 12 points and P.J. Haggerty scored 10 for Kansas State (7-4).

The Wildcats shot 59% (10 of 36) and hit 11 of 17 3-point shots in the first half, but after the break were just 28% (10 of 36) overall and missed 10 of 11 shots from distance.

K-State led by as many as 20 points early in the second half. About midway through the second, Creighton began a 10-1 surge to pull to 73-70 with 2:41 to play. Castillo answered with a layup and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/KStateMBB/status/1999964986085679560?s=20">McGriff added a dunk</a>&nbsp;to help the Wildcats pull away.

Josh Dix scored and Isaac Traudt scored 18 points apiece to lead Creighton (5-5). Austin Swartz chipped in with 12 points.

K-State closed the first half on a 23-8 run for a 51-33 halftime lead. Bashir scored 15 points on five 3-pointers to pace the Wildcats

It was the 10th meeting for K-State in Omaha but the first since an 88-78 win on Dec. 5, 1987. The teams last met in the 2018 NCAA Tournament when the Wildcats earned a 69-59 win in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Creighton plays Xavier in a Big East Conference opener on Wednesday.

Kansas State hosts South Dakota on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765670090295.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — David Castillo scored 19 points, Abdi Bashir Jr. added 18 and Kansas State built an early double-digit lead in the second half and held off Creighton for an 83-76 victory on Saturday.Castillo was 7-of-11 shooting and Bashir hit 6 of 12 from 3-point range. Khamari McGriff added 12 points and P.J. Haggerty scored 10 for Kansas State (7-4).The Wildcats shot 59% (10 of 36) and hit 11 of 17 3-point shots in the first half, but after the break were just 28% (10 of 36) overall and missed 10 of 11 shots from distance.K-State led by as many as 20 points early in the second half. About midway through the second, Creighton began a 10-1 surge to pull to 73-70 with 2:41 to play. Castillo answered with a layup and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/KStateMBB/status/1999964986085679560?s=20">McGriff added a dunk</a>&nbsp;to help the Wildcats pull away.Josh Dix scored and Isaac Traudt scored 18 points apiece to lead Creighton (5-5). Austin Swartz chipped in with 12 points.K-State closed the first half on a 23-8 run for a 51-33 halftime lead. Bashir scored 15 points on five 3-pointers to pace the WildcatsIt was the 10th meeting for K-State in Omaha but the first since an 88-78 win on Dec. 5, 1987. The teams last met in the 2018 NCAA Tournament when the Wildcats earned a 69-59 win in Charlotte, North Carolina.<h2>Up next</h2>Creighton plays Xavier in a Big East Conference opener on Wednesday.Kansas State hosts South Dakota on Saturday.

🏀 Castillo and Bashir help Kansas State hold off Creighton 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765491354989.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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<a name="x__Hlk121049403"></a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;A former special teams standout and four-year staff member at Kansas State,&nbsp;Stanton Weber&nbsp;has been hired as the Wildcats&rsquo; special teams coordinator, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Thursday.
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Weber has spent the last three seasons as the special teams coordinator at Toledo as he was named a finalist for the 2024 Special Teams Coordinator of the Year by FootballScoop in addition to the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) 35 Under 35 Leadership Institute.
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&ldquo;Natalie and I could not be more thrilled to join Coach Klein, Shalin and their family in Manhattan,&rdquo; Weber said. &ldquo;Thank you to Coach Candle and the University of Toledo for three great years. We are so grateful for the opportunity from Coach Klein to return home. I am proud to have grown up in this Family and humbled by the responsibility to serve K-State. It is the honor of a lifetime. Go Cats!&rdquo;
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Prior to his time at Toledo, Weber spent two seasons as a special teams analyst at South Carolina after getting his start in coaching at K-State, first as an offensive graduate assistant in 2017 and 2018 before becoming a special teams quality control coach in 2019 and 2020.
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&ldquo;Stanton is one of the most competitive individuals I have ever met,&rdquo; Klein said. &ldquo;He strives for excellence in everything he does. He builds great relationships and has worked himself into being one of the best special teams coordinators in the country.&rdquo;
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Weber presided over five All-Mid-American Conference (MAC) honorees during his tenure at Toledo, including three-straight kickoff return specialists, a punt returner and a kicker. Additionally, the Rockets blocked six punts over his three years.
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In 2025, Weber helped the Rockets earn an 8-4 record and a trip to the Boca Raton Bowl. Toledo finished the regular season ranking fourth in the nation in blocked punts (3), eighth in total blocked kicks, 20th&nbsp;in punt-return defense (4.22) and 31st&nbsp;in punt returns (11.48). Both kickoff returner Trayvon Rudolph (second team) and punt returner Bryson Hammer (third team) earned All-MAC honors. Rudolph ranks 33rd&nbsp;nationally with a 21.6-yard average on kickoff returns, including one he returned 96 yards for a touchdown. Hammer ranks 14th&nbsp;in the country in punt-return average at 12.3, while his 333 total punt-return yards rank sixth.
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Under Weber, kickoff-returner Jacquez Stuart finished off his career with consecutive All-MAC First Team honors in 2023 and 2024. He led the MAC and finished fifth in the country in 2024 after averaging 34.0 yards per return &ndash; which was highlighted by a 98-yard touchdown &ndash; as the Rockets ranked 21st&nbsp;in the nation with a team average of 24.07 yards. The year prior, Stuart ranked third in the country with a 29.1-yard average. He totaled 582 kickoff-return yards on the year, which included a 97-yard score to open the game against Buffalo.
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The 2023 season also saw Weber guide Luke Pawlak to All-MAC Second Team accolades after connecting on 12-of-15 field goals (80.0%), which included a long of 44 yards in the season opener at Illinois as part of a season-high three field goals.
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In 2024, Weber&rsquo;s special teams ranked in the top 30 in blocked punts (20th; 1), kickoff returns (21st; 24.07), punt returns (22nd; 12.95), punt return defense (27th; 4.89) and blocked kicks (27th; 2). His 2023 units ranked highly in blocked punts (3rd; 2) and kickoff-return defense (11th; 16.00).
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Prior to his time at Toledo, Weber spent two seasons as a special teams analyst at South Carolina. In 2022, the Gamecocks were ranked No. 1 in the country in special teams efficiency by ESPN, led the SEC in punt-return average and had the nation&rsquo;s longest kickoff return of the season (100 yards) against Texas A&amp;M. They were also second in the SEC in yards per punt and were 11-of-11 on field goal attempts.
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A native of Overland Park, Kansas, Weber was a three-time First Team Academic All-Big 12 performer as a wide receiver and special teams standout for the Wildcats from 2011-15. A team captain as a senior in 2015, Weber played in 46 career games and finished with 19 tackles. He helped K-State accumulate a 34-18 record, earn a Big 12 championship in 2012 and advance to five straight bowl games.
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Weber comes from an athletic family, all of whom played collegiately at Kansas State. His father, Stan, was a quarterback for the Wildcats from 1980-84 and is currently the lead analyst on the K-State Sports Network; his brother Landry was a wide receiver for the Wildcats from 2017-21; and his sister McKenzi played volleyball at K-State from 2016-19.
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Weber has three degrees from Kansas State, earning his bachelor&rsquo;s (2015) and master&rsquo;s (2016) degrees in accounting prior to obtaining an MBA in 2019. He and his wife, Natalie, were married in July of 2022.
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THE STANTON WEBER FILE
Hometown:&nbsp;Overland Park, Kansas
High School:&nbsp;Bishop Miege
College:&nbsp;Kansas State &ndash; Bachelor&rsquo;s degree in accounting (2015), master&rsquo;s in accounting (2016), master&rsquo;s of business administration (2019)
Family:&nbsp;Wife: Natalie
Playing Career:&nbsp;Kansas State (wide receiver), 2011-15
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STANTON WEBER&rsquo;S COACHING CAREER
2017-18, Kansas State (Offensive Graduate Assistant)
2019-20, Kansas State (Special Teams Quality Control)
2021-22, South Carolina (Special Teams Analyst)
2023-25, Toledo (Special Teams Coordinator)
2026, Kansas State (Special Teams Coordinator)</div>

🏈 K-State hires Stanton Weber as Special Teams Coordinator

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Trey Scott, who worked 11 years in player personnel with NFL clubs and the last three years as a coaches and executives agent, has been hired as the football program’s General Manager, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Thursday.

Scott brings a unique, well-rounded prospective to Kansas State in the new era of college athletics as he has traveled throughout Division I football as a scout for two NFL clubs before handling contract negotiations over the last several years.

“I have had a long career in football, but this is different – this is Family, and this is home,” Scott said. “I am excited to work with quality people and be aggressive in this era of opportunity. Thank you to Coach Klein for trusting me to help advance our program. I can’t wait for my wife and kids to become a part of this special community.”

In his role in Manhattan, Scott will manage the composition of the football roster and, in consultation with Klein and assistant coaches, determine strategies to retain current student-athletes and attract prospective student-athletes.

“Trey is a huge part of where we are going to take K-State in the future,” said Klein. “With his NFL experience and roster management background – along with how he builds relationships – he is the perfect fit.”

After concluding his playing days as a K-State quarterback in 2010, Scott began in professional football as a pro personnel assistant with the Washington Redskins in 2011. He received an opportunity to work for the Oakland Raiders in 2012 and moved to Las Vegas when the franchise was relocated in 2020. Starting as a Midwest scout of the Raiders, Scott earned multiple promotions, culminating with the title of assistant director of player personnel where he oversaw all aspects of the personnel department.

Scott left the Raiders in 2022 to lead the coaching and executives division of Rep 1 Sports before the company was acquired by Excel Sports Management in 2023. For Excel Sports, Scott represented some of the top college football and NFL coaches in addition to front office members with his primary focus of handling their contract negotiations. He also worked as a consultant for athletic departments around the country, helping schools navigate the new era of college athletics in revenue sharing, NIL and spending of revenue sharing dollars.

A native of Shawnee, Kansas, who played at Mill Valley High School, Scott earned dual bachelor’s degrees in business management and supply chain management – in addition to a minor in economics – from Kansas State in December 2010. His family includes his wife, Lauren, daughter, Allie, and son, Jack.

College:&nbsp;Kansas State – Bachelor’s degrees in business management and supply chain management; Minor in economics (2010)

Family:&nbsp;Wife: Lauren; Children: Allie, Jack

Playing Career:&nbsp;Kansas State (quarterback), 2007-10

TREY SCOTT’S PROFESSIONAL CAREER

2011, Washington Redskins (Pro Personnel Assistant)

2012-22, Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders (College Scout/Pro Personnel Executive)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765488679350.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Trey Scott, who worked 11 years in player personnel with NFL clubs and the last three years as a coaches and executives agent, has been hired as the football program’s General Manager, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Thursday.Scott brings a unique, well-rounded prospective to Kansas State in the new era of college athletics as he has traveled throughout Division I football as a scout for two NFL clubs before handling contract negotiations over the last several years.“I have had a long career in football, but this is different – this is Family, and this is home,” Scott said. “I am excited to work with quality people and be aggressive in this era of opportunity. Thank you to Coach Klein for trusting me to help advance our program. I can’t wait for my wife and kids to become a part of this special community.”In his role in Manhattan, Scott will manage the composition of the football roster and, in consultation with Klein and assistant coaches, determine strategies to retain current student-athletes and attract prospective student-athletes.“Trey is a huge part of where we are going to take K-State in the future,” said Klein. “With his NFL experience and roster management background – along with how he builds relationships – he is the perfect fit.”After concluding his playing days as a K-State quarterback in 2010, Scott began in professional football as a pro personnel assistant with the Washington Redskins in 2011. He received an opportunity to work for the Oakland Raiders in 2012 and moved to Las Vegas when the franchise was relocated in 2020. Starting as a Midwest scout of the Raiders, Scott earned multiple promotions, culminating with the title of assistant director of player personnel where he oversaw all aspects of the personnel department.Scott left the Raiders in 2022 to lead the coaching and executives division of Rep 1 Sports before the company was acquired by Excel Sports Management in 2023. For Excel Sports, Scott represented some of the top college football and NFL coaches in addition to front office members with his primary focus of handling their contract negotiations. He also worked as a consultant for athletic departments around the country, helping schools navigate the new era of college athletics in revenue sharing, NIL and spending of revenue sharing dollars.A native of Shawnee, Kansas, who played at Mill Valley High School, Scott earned dual bachelor’s degrees in business management and supply chain management – in addition to a minor in economics – from Kansas State in December 2010. His family includes his wife, Lauren, daughter, Allie, and son, Jack.THE TREY SCOTT FILEHometown:&nbsp;Shawnee, KansasHigh School:&nbsp;Mill ValleyCollege:&nbsp;Kansas State – Bachelor’s degrees in business management and supply chain management; Minor in economics (2010)Family:&nbsp;Wife: Lauren; Children: Allie, JackPlaying Career:&nbsp;Kansas State (quarterback), 2007-10TREY SCOTT’S PROFESSIONAL CAREER2011, Washington Redskins (Pro Personnel Assistant)2012-22, Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders (College Scout/Pro Personnel Executive)2022, Rep 1 Sports (Agent)2023-25, Excel Sports Management (Agent)

K-State Hires Trey Scott as General Manager

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — P.J. Haggerty sank five of Kansas State's 19 3-pointers and scored 28, leading the Wildcats to a 108-49 romp over Mississippi Valley State on Monday night to snap a four-game losing streak.

Haggerty made 11 of 14 shots with just one miss from beyond the arc for the Wildcats (6-4), who improved to 5-2 at home.

David Castillo came off the bench to hit 5 of 8 from 3-point range, scoring 19 for K-State. Abdi Bashir Jr. scored 15 on 5-for-10 shooting from distance as the Wildcats hot 53% from outside the arc. Nate Johnson had two 3s and scored 14, adding six assists and five steals.

Haggerty scored seven in a game-opening 25-9 run by K-State. He had 15 points by halftime as the Wildcats opened up a 55-21 lead.

K-State shot just under 60% from the floor in the first half. The Wildcats made 6 of 13 from distance and 11 of 14 free throws. Mississippi Valley State missed 25 of 31 shots, including all six of its 3-pointers.

Haggerty and Castillo missed one shot each in the second half, combining for 25 of the Wildcats' 53 points after the break.

Michael James scored 23 to lead the Delta Devils (1-9), who are 0-7 on the road and have lost eight straight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765279466746.jpeg" alt="Kansas State guard P.J. Haggerty (4)&nbsp; passes to Elias Rapieque (0) during the first half of their game against Mississippi Valley State on Monday, December 8, 2025 in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State guard P.J. Haggerty (4)&nbsp; passes to Elias Rapieque (0) during the first half of their game against Mississippi Valley State on Monday, December 8, 2025 in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — P.J. Haggerty sank five of Kansas State's 19 3-pointers and scored 28, leading the Wildcats to a 108-49 romp over Mississippi Valley State on Monday night to snap a four-game losing streak.Haggerty made 11 of 14 shots with just one miss from beyond the arc for the Wildcats (6-4), who improved to 5-2 at home.David Castillo came off the bench to hit 5 of 8 from 3-point range, scoring 19 for K-State. Abdi Bashir Jr. scored 15 on 5-for-10 shooting from distance as the Wildcats hot 53% from outside the arc. Nate Johnson had two 3s and scored 14, adding six assists and five steals.Haggerty scored seven in a game-opening 25-9 run by K-State. He had 15 points by halftime as the Wildcats opened up a 55-21 lead.K-State shot just under 60% from the floor in the first half. The Wildcats made 6 of 13 from distance and 11 of 14 free throws. Mississippi Valley State missed 25 of 31 shots, including all six of its 3-pointers.Haggerty and Castillo missed one shot each in the second half, combining for 25 of the Wildcats' 53 points after the break.Michael James scored 23 to lead the Delta Devils (1-9), who are 0-7 on the road and have lost eight straight.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: At Creighton on Saturday.

🏀 Haggerty scores 28 as K-State rolls past Mississippi Valley State

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Houston Texans never made their trip to Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday night into anything more than their next game.

Didn't matter that the Kansas City Chiefs had been the AFC's bully for the better part of a decade. Or the Chiefs had knocked Houston out of the playoffs last year. Or that the Texans needed to win to keep pace with Jacksonville in the AFC South.

“It was our next game,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “We needed to come out and execute. Play good football. And we did.”

C.J Stroud threw for 203 yards and a touchdown, the Texans leaned on the NFL's top-ranked defense to shut down Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, and Houston walked out with a 20-10 victory that gave a big boost to their postseason hopes.

Nico Collins contributed four catches for 121 yards, and Dare Ogunbowale added a go-ahead touchdown run in the fourth quarter, as the Texans (8-5) won their fifth straight overall and remained a game back of the Jaguars in a tight division race.

“We did what we came to do,” Ryans said. “It was just about accomplishing your mission. It wasn't anything extra on top for winning this game. We just knew we had to get the win no matter what it took.”

Mahomes, operating behind an ailing offensive line, was 14 of 33 for 160 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions. The last of the picks came late in the fourth quarter, when Kansas City was trailing by a touchdown and trying to get the game to overtime.

“I thought our defense did a great job sticking in coverage, and relentlessly rushing," Stroud said. "An amazing job.”

While the win gave a big boost to Houston's playoff chances, whether it be a division title or wild-card spot, it dealt a crippling blow to the defending AFC champs. Kansas City dropped to 6-7, its worst record through 13 games since a 2-11 start to the 2012 season.

“You're getting late in the season. You're not going to get these opportunities back,” Mahomes said. “That's a good football team, but we had chances and we didn't execute at the right time to win it.”

The Chiefs had won five straight against the Texans, including that divisional playoff matchup last January on their way to another Super Bowl appearance. But they were two different teams entirely when they returned for the rematch Sunday night.

The streaking Texans were trying to keep their momentum going, and perhaps join a rare club of teams that includes Houston's 2018 version that started 0-3 and made the playoffs. And the once-dominant Chiefs were simply trying to stay in the postseason fight amid a dismal season marked by injuries, underwhelming performances and too many mistakes across the board.

The first half turned into a microcosm of all of it.

Stroud, who played so well against Indianapolis last week in his return from a concussion, connected with Collins for a 46-yard gain that set up Ka'imi Fairbairn's field goal and a 53-yard catch that led to a short touchdown toss to Woody Marks.

Meanwhile, the Chiefs sustained&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texans-chiefs-injuries-775ebe979ae3135b65a16b1d11c5cfbe">two more significant injuries</a>, this time to left tackle Wanya Morris and cornerback Trent McDuffie, leaving them without their best defensive back and Mahomes working with an offensive line consisting of three backups.

“Listen, they battled,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said afterward. “Some of the guys in there hadn't practiced much.”

Still, the Chiefs wound up with just 98 first-half yards, and they trailed 10-0 at the break. It was only the fourth time with Mahomes at quarterback and the second time in the regular season that the Chiefs had been shut out in the first half.

The Chiefs' defense held its own, though, forcing Stroud into eight consecutive incompletions to start the second half. It allowed Mahomes and the offense to pick away at their deficit, first on Kareem Hunt's TD run and then on Harrison Butker's tying field goal.

Ultimately, the game hinged on two fourth-down decisions in the fourth quarter.

With the score still 10-10, the Texans had fourth-and-1 at their own 35 and punted. The Chiefs were then held to fourth-and-1 at their own 31, chose to go for it, and watched Mahomes throw incomplete with just over 10 minutes remaining.

Six plays later, Ogunbowale plowed into the end zone from 5 yards out to give Houston the lead again.

The Chiefs failed on fourth down again moments later, when Rashee Rice dropped a wide-open pass that would have produced a first down. And after Kansas City got the ball back one last time, Mahomes was picked off to end any hope of a comeback.

“We've still got an opportunity. Even though it's a slim opportunity, we have an opportunity,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said. “For us, the door is still open. It might be a 10 percent chance. It might be a 5 percent chance. But as long as we have an opportunity and a chance, we can control that, and let the cards fall where they fall.”

Texans: RB Nick Chubb (ribs) left in the first half and did not return.

Chiefs: RG Trey Smith (ankle) and RT Jawaan Taylor (triceps) were inactive. Morris (knee) and CB McDuffie (knee) got hurt in the first half, leaving Kansas City with a patchwork offensive line and without its best defensive back.

Kansas City plays the Chargers the same day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765164441878.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Houston Texans never made their trip to Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday night into anything more than their next game.Didn't matter that the Kansas City Chiefs had been the AFC's bully for the better part of a decade. Or the Chiefs had knocked Houston out of the playoffs last year. Or that the Texans needed to win to keep pace with Jacksonville in the AFC South.“It was our next game,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “We needed to come out and execute. Play good football. And we did.”Did enough, anyway.C.J Stroud threw for 203 yards and a touchdown, the Texans leaned on the NFL's top-ranked defense to shut down Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, and Houston walked out with a 20-10 victory that gave a big boost to their postseason hopes.Nico Collins contributed four catches for 121 yards, and Dare Ogunbowale added a go-ahead touchdown run in the fourth quarter, as the Texans (8-5) won their fifth straight overall and remained a game back of the Jaguars in a tight division race.“We did what we came to do,” Ryans said. “It was just about accomplishing your mission. It wasn't anything extra on top for winning this game. We just knew we had to get the win no matter what it took.”Mahomes, operating behind an ailing offensive line, was 14 of 33 for 160 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions. The last of the picks came late in the fourth quarter, when Kansas City was trailing by a touchdown and trying to get the game to overtime.“I thought our defense did a great job sticking in coverage, and relentlessly rushing," Stroud said. "An amazing job.”While the win gave a big boost to Houston's playoff chances, whether it be a division title or wild-card spot, it dealt a crippling blow to the defending AFC champs. Kansas City dropped to 6-7, its worst record through 13 games since a 2-11 start to the 2012 season.“You're getting late in the season. You're not going to get these opportunities back,” Mahomes said. “That's a good football team, but we had chances and we didn't execute at the right time to win it.”The Chiefs had won five straight against the Texans, including that divisional playoff matchup last January on their way to another Super Bowl appearance. But they were two different teams entirely when they returned for the rematch Sunday night.The streaking Texans were trying to keep their momentum going, and perhaps join a rare club of teams that includes Houston's 2018 version that started 0-3 and made the playoffs. And the once-dominant Chiefs were simply trying to stay in the postseason fight amid a dismal season marked by injuries, underwhelming performances and too many mistakes across the board.The first half turned into a microcosm of all of it.Stroud, who played so well against Indianapolis last week in his return from a concussion, connected with Collins for a 46-yard gain that set up Ka'imi Fairbairn's field goal and a 53-yard catch that led to a short touchdown toss to Woody Marks.Meanwhile, the Chiefs sustained&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texans-chiefs-injuries-775ebe979ae3135b65a16b1d11c5cfbe">two more significant injuries</a>, this time to left tackle Wanya Morris and cornerback Trent McDuffie, leaving them without their best defensive back and Mahomes working with an offensive line consisting of three backups.“Listen, they battled,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said afterward. “Some of the guys in there hadn't practiced much.”Still, the Chiefs wound up with just 98 first-half yards, and they trailed 10-0 at the break. It was only the fourth time with Mahomes at quarterback and the second time in the regular season that the Chiefs had been shut out in the first half.The Chiefs' defense held its own, though, forcing Stroud into eight consecutive incompletions to start the second half. It allowed Mahomes and the offense to pick away at their deficit, first on Kareem Hunt's TD run and then on Harrison Butker's tying field goal.Ultimately, the game hinged on two fourth-down decisions in the fourth quarter.With the score still 10-10, the Texans had fourth-and-1 at their own 35 and punted. The Chiefs were then held to fourth-and-1 at their own 31, chose to go for it, and watched Mahomes throw incomplete with just over 10 minutes remaining.Six plays later, Ogunbowale plowed into the end zone from 5 yards out to give Houston the lead again.The Chiefs failed on fourth down again moments later, when Rashee Rice dropped a wide-open pass that would have produced a first down. And after Kansas City got the ball back one last time, Mahomes was picked off to end any hope of a comeback.“We've still got an opportunity. Even though it's a slim opportunity, we have an opportunity,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said. “For us, the door is still open. It might be a 10 percent chance. It might be a 5 percent chance. But as long as we have an opportunity and a chance, we can control that, and let the cards fall where they fall.”<h2>Injuries</h2>Texans: RB Nick Chubb (ribs) left in the first half and did not return.Chiefs: RG Trey Smith (ankle) and RT Jawaan Taylor (triceps) were inactive. Morris (knee) and CB McDuffie (knee) got hurt in the first half, leaving Kansas City with a patchwork offensive line and without its best defensive back.<h2>Up next</h2>Houston plays the Cardinals next Sunday.Kansas City plays the Chargers the same day.

🏈 Texans beat the Chiefs in crucial matchup at Arrowhead

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas has proven over the past month that it can hang with the nation's best without Darryn Peterson on the floor.

The Jayhawks showed Sunday they are capable of beating anybody when he's out there.

The potential No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, Peterson returned from a lingering hamstring injury to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-tigers-kansas-jayhawks-score-697f371f46b4674affdf5cbad2707ecc">score 17 points in 23 minutes</a>&nbsp;against Missouri, leading the No. 21 Jayhawks to an 80-60 rout of their biggest rival in the latest edition of the Border War.

Oh, and the high-scoring guard did it while battling flu-like symptoms that had developed over the previous couple of days. He played 17 minutes in the first half but just six in the second, when the Jayhawks had already built a sizeable lead.

“I thought he did fine. I didn't think he pushed it,” Kansas coach Bill Self said, “but that's not because of his hammy. It's because he was sick. I was nervous he wasn't going to play, then I was going to have to tell you again that something came up.”

Peterson had missed most of the exhibition season because of issues with cramps. He proceeded to score 21 points in 22 minutes in the Jayhawks' opener against Green Bay, then had 22 points in 28 minutes in a loss at North Carolina later that week.

But he hadn't played since because of the hamstring, forcing the Jayhawks to develop without their best player. And they had made some significant progress, winning three games against power league opponents in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas, and putting scares into fourth-ranked Duke and this past week to No. 5 UConn in a nip-and-tuck game at Allen Fieldhouse.

It was after that game against the Huskies that Kansas played a half-court scrimmage between its first and second teams. Peterson had 14 of his side's 20 points in that practice, and he had three assists in helping to produce the other six.

“I mean, he was responsible for every point,” Self said.

Still, the Jayhawks' coach didn't know exactly what to expect on Sunday, both because of the time that Peterson had spent nursing his injury and the illness that had him laid up on the trainer's table just 24 hours before tipoff.

“Man, you could see, even though he was limited in minutes, he was super efficient,” said Kansas forward Tre White, who led the way with 20 points and 13 rebounds against the Tigers. “I had a bunch of wide-open shots I haven't normally had. He just makes the game so much easier. He attracts a lot of bodies when he's playing, and that makes it easier for us.”

Peterson wasn't available to talk after the game Sunday, but Self acknowledged that the time off had been difficult on him.

“I think it frustrates him. But it's the world we live in,” Self said. “That kid is over there getting four treatments a day, 45 minutes in every treatment. That kid spends more time shooting on his own maybe than (any player) I've ever coached. That kid wants to be out there so bad, and then when I say whatever I'm going to say, it's not enough for me to say, ‘It’s day to day,' which that's what it's been.”

Self then pondered the attention that Peterson — and his injury — have gotten this season.

Perhaps the scrutiny hasn't been entirely bad, given he will be constantly under it when Peterson heads to the NBA.

“How many people look at our guys and say, ‘We’re going to watch them grow up before our eyes?' If they're making a substantial amount of money? It's a different world,” Self said. “But it's also a world we say, ‘It’s so great for the kids.' But you also give people a reason to have opinions and talk. That's just the way it is. I think in his situation it may be good for him, because he's going to get talked about a lot moving forward. Hey, it's all preparation. I see it as part of the process more than I see it as a negative.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765146850356.png" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas has proven over the past month that it can hang with the nation's best without Darryn Peterson on the floor.The Jayhawks showed Sunday they are capable of beating anybody when he's out there.The potential No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, Peterson returned from a lingering hamstring injury to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-tigers-kansas-jayhawks-score-697f371f46b4674affdf5cbad2707ecc">score 17 points in 23 minutes</a>&nbsp;against Missouri, leading the No. 21 Jayhawks to an 80-60 rout of their biggest rival in the latest edition of the Border War.Oh, and the high-scoring guard did it while battling flu-like symptoms that had developed over the previous couple of days. He played 17 minutes in the first half but just six in the second, when the Jayhawks had already built a sizeable lead.“I thought he did fine. I didn't think he pushed it,” Kansas coach Bill Self said, “but that's not because of his hammy. It's because he was sick. I was nervous he wasn't going to play, then I was going to have to tell you again that something came up.”Peterson had missed most of the exhibition season because of issues with cramps. He proceeded to score 21 points in 22 minutes in the Jayhawks' opener against Green Bay, then had 22 points in 28 minutes in a loss at North Carolina later that week.But he hadn't played since because of the hamstring, forcing the Jayhawks to develop without their best player. And they had made some significant progress, winning three games against power league opponents in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas, and putting scares into fourth-ranked Duke and this past week to No. 5 UConn in a nip-and-tuck game at Allen Fieldhouse.It was after that game against the Huskies that Kansas played a half-court scrimmage between its first and second teams. Peterson had 14 of his side's 20 points in that practice, and he had three assists in helping to produce the other six.“I mean, he was responsible for every point,” Self said.Still, the Jayhawks' coach didn't know exactly what to expect on Sunday, both because of the time that Peterson had spent nursing his injury and the illness that had him laid up on the trainer's table just 24 hours before tipoff.“Man, you could see, even though he was limited in minutes, he was super efficient,” said Kansas forward Tre White, who led the way with 20 points and 13 rebounds against the Tigers. “I had a bunch of wide-open shots I haven't normally had. He just makes the game so much easier. He attracts a lot of bodies when he's playing, and that makes it easier for us.”Peterson wasn't available to talk after the game Sunday, but Self acknowledged that the time off had been difficult on him.“I think it frustrates him. But it's the world we live in,” Self said. “That kid is over there getting four treatments a day, 45 minutes in every treatment. That kid spends more time shooting on his own maybe than (any player) I've ever coached. That kid wants to be out there so bad, and then when I say whatever I'm going to say, it's not enough for me to say, ‘It’s day to day,' which that's what it's been.”Self then pondered the attention that Peterson — and his injury — have gotten this season.Perhaps the scrutiny hasn't been entirely bad, given he will be constantly under it when Peterson heads to the NBA.“How many people look at our guys and say, ‘We’re going to watch them grow up before our eyes?' If they're making a substantial amount of money? It's a different world,” Self said. “But it's also a world we say, ‘It’s so great for the kids.' But you also give people a reason to have opinions and talk. That's just the way it is. I think in his situation it may be good for him, because he's going to get talked about a lot moving forward. Hey, it's all preparation. I see it as part of the process more than I see it as a negative.”___

🏀 Peterson returns from injury to lead KU past Mizzou

KANSAS CITY (AP) —The Big 12 Conference announced Sunday it would fine Kansas State and Iowa State $500,000 each for opting out of bowl participation.

Both schools are going through coaching transitions with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/penn-state-coach-25693d0de4692f95c6585b5f436ec11f">Matt Campbell leaving Iowa State for Penn State</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-state-football-fa06d288abd9c4f320e6c409bc871582">Chris Klieman announcing his retirement.</a>

“While the conference acknowledges the difficult timing around coaching changes, the Big 12 is responsible for fulfilling its contractual obligations to its bowl partners,” the Big 12 said in a statement.

Iowa State announced its players voted to not play in a bowl because the team doesn't have healthy players to safety practice and play. ISU did not mention the coaching change from Campbell to Jimmy Rogers in its statement.

The Cyclones sustained numerous injuries this season while going 8-4, and members of the athletics administration and the previous coaching staff met Sunday with the players to gauge their interest in a bowl.

“The administrative staff and coaches respect and support the players decision,” athletic director Jamie Pollard said. “Our student-athletes have had an incredible season and we are grateful for their leadership as we worked through this process with them today.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-state-football-fa06d288abd9c4f320e6c409bc871582">K-State athletic director Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;said he had conversations with players and Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark before deciding to decline a bowl bid. The Wildcats were 6-6 after beating Colorado at home in their final home game.

“This decision was not taken lightly, but with our coaching staff transition and several uncertainties regarding player availability, I felt it was not in our best interest to try to field a team that was not representative of Kansas State University," Taylor said. "We applaud this group for fighting back from a 2-4 record to lead us to bowl eligibility yet again, and we are happy that our seniors were able to go out on top with a victory inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) —The Big 12 Conference announced Sunday it would fine Kansas State and Iowa State $500,000 each for opting out of bowl participation.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Athletics Director Gene Taylor has announced that <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KStateFB</a> will not accept a bowl bid for the 2025 season. The Wildcats finished the year with a 6-6 record and qualified for their fifth-straight bowl game and 14th in the last 16 seasons. <a href="https://t.co/AVA9TTDpeO">pic.twitter.com/AVA9TTDpeO</a>&mdash; K-State Athletics (@kstatesports) <a href="https://twitter.com/kstatesports/status/1997713052595306972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Both schools are going through coaching transitions with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/penn-state-coach-25693d0de4692f95c6585b5f436ec11f">Matt Campbell leaving Iowa State for Penn State</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-state-football-fa06d288abd9c4f320e6c409bc871582">Chris Klieman announcing his retirement.</a>“While the conference acknowledges the difficult timing around coaching changes, the Big 12 is responsible for fulfilling its contractual obligations to its bowl partners,” the Big 12 said in a statement.Iowa State announced its players voted to not play in a bowl because the team doesn't have healthy players to safety practice and play. ISU did not mention the coaching change from Campbell to Jimmy Rogers in its statement.The Cyclones sustained numerous injuries this season while going 8-4, and members of the athletics administration and the previous coaching staff met Sunday with the players to gauge their interest in a bowl.“The administrative staff and coaches respect and support the players decision,” athletic director Jamie Pollard said. “Our student-athletes have had an incredible season and we are grateful for their leadership as we worked through this process with them today.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-state-football-fa06d288abd9c4f320e6c409bc871582">K-State athletic director Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;said he had conversations with players and Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark before deciding to decline a bowl bid. The Wildcats were 6-6 after beating Colorado at home in their final home game.“This decision was not taken lightly, but with our coaching staff transition and several uncertainties regarding player availability, I felt it was not in our best interest to try to field a team that was not representative of Kansas State University," Taylor said. "We applaud this group for fighting back from a 2-4 record to lead us to bowl eligibility yet again, and we are happy that our seniors were able to go out on top with a victory inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium.”___

🏈 Kansas State declines bowl bid, fined $500,000 by Big 12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏀 Seton Hall hands Kansas State a fourth straight loss

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coaches’ All-Big 12 Teams (Kansas State)

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

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

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

K-State Garners 13 All-Big 12 Selections

By Anthony Gorges JC/Little Apple Post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

K-State Signs 23 for 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

K-State’s Chris Klieman Announces Retirement

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It was the first meeting between the teams.

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

Bowling Green hosts Utah Valley on Saturday.

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

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

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

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

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

Manhattan wins the Class 6A State Football Championship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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