KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Devin Neal ran for 207 yards and three touchdowns, caught four passes for 80 yards and another score, and led Kansas to a 37-21 victory over No. 16 Colorado on Saturday that dealt a big blow to the Buffaloes' hopes of playing for the Big 12 title.

Jalon Daniels threw for 189 yards and a touchdown, and the Jayhawks (5-6, 4-4) scored on every offensive series but their last, keeping Colorado stars Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy candidate Travis Hunter standing on the sideline.

Sanders finished with 266 yards passing and three touchdowns, setting the Colorado single-season record with 30 TD passes, while Hunter finished with eight catches for 125 yards and two scores. But the two-way standout did little on defense — nor did anyone else wearing all-white uniforms — as the Jayhawks beat a ranked team for a school-record third straight week.

Now, the Buffaloes (8-3, 6-2 Big 12, No. 16 CFP) need to beat Oklahoma State and get some help to play for a championship in their return to the Big 12, and earn the league's guaranteed spot in the College Football Playoff.

The Jayhawks, whose back-to-back wins over Iowa State and BYU had given them newfound confidence, suddenly resemble the team that was expected to challenge for a Big 12 title — before a series of late-game collapses resulted in a 1-5 start.

They opened with Neal's 51-yard touchdown catch. They forced a three-and-out and scored again for a 10-0 lead. And when they got the ball back yet again, the Jayhawks churned down field and Neal scampered into the end zone for another score.

It was 17-0 before Hunter, who has emerged as the Heisman front-runner, took a short pass from Sanders and cut up field, deftly slipping between several Kansas defenders and going untouched 51 yards for a touchdown.

The teams traded scores into the break, and the Jayhawks held tightly to a 23-14 advantage. But the question became whether Kansas coach Lance Leipold would rue kicking field goals of 24, 23 and 25 yards rather than going for first-half touchdowns.

After the Buffaloes closed within 23-21 on Hunter's second TD catch, the Jayhawks marched 80 yards with Neal answering the score. Kansas immediately forced a three-and-out, sacking Sanders on third down — he appeared to shove an official in the back after the play — and the Neal scored again to cap an 8-plus minute drive and give the Jayhawks a 37-21 lead.

Colorado's comeback chances ended when Cobee Bryant broke up a pass in the end zone on fourth down late in the game.

Colorado will lament a defense that was simply incapable of stopping the Jayhawks. Defensive back Shilo Sanders was flagged twice and gave up several big plays, while the Buffaloes were bullied up front by the Kansas offensive line.

Kansas could improbably make a bowl game for a third consecutive season. The Jayhawks merely need to beat Baylor in their regular-season finale — what would be their season-ending fifth straight win — to earn an invitation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732407040165.png" alt="Photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Devin Neal ran for 207 yards and three touchdowns, caught four passes for 80 yards and another score, and led Kansas to a 37-21 victory over No. 16 Colorado on Saturday that dealt a big blow to the Buffaloes' hopes of playing for the Big 12 title.Jalon Daniels threw for 189 yards and a touchdown, and the Jayhawks (5-6, 4-4) scored on every offensive series but their last, keeping Colorado stars Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy candidate Travis Hunter standing on the sideline.Sanders finished with 266 yards passing and three touchdowns, setting the Colorado single-season record with 30 TD passes, while Hunter finished with eight catches for 125 yards and two scores. But the two-way standout did little on defense — nor did anyone else wearing all-white uniforms — as the Jayhawks beat a ranked team for a school-record third straight week.Now, the Buffaloes (8-3, 6-2 Big 12, No. 16 CFP) need to beat Oklahoma State and get some help to play for a championship in their return to the Big 12, and earn the league's guaranteed spot in the College Football Playoff.The Jayhawks, whose back-to-back wins over Iowa State and BYU had given them newfound confidence, suddenly resemble the team that was expected to challenge for a Big 12 title — before a series of late-game collapses resulted in a 1-5 start.They opened with Neal's 51-yard touchdown catch. They forced a three-and-out and scored again for a 10-0 lead. And when they got the ball back yet again, the Jayhawks churned down field and Neal scampered into the end zone for another score.It was 17-0 before Hunter, who has emerged as the Heisman front-runner, took a short pass from Sanders and cut up field, deftly slipping between several Kansas defenders and going untouched 51 yards for a touchdown.The teams traded scores into the break, and the Jayhawks held tightly to a 23-14 advantage. But the question became whether Kansas coach Lance Leipold would rue kicking field goals of 24, 23 and 25 yards rather than going for first-half touchdowns.Nope.After the Buffaloes closed within 23-21 on Hunter's second TD catch, the Jayhawks marched 80 yards with Neal answering the score. Kansas immediately forced a three-and-out, sacking Sanders on third down — he appeared to shove an official in the back after the play — and the Neal scored again to cap an 8-plus minute drive and give the Jayhawks a 37-21 lead.Colorado's comeback chances ended when Cobee Bryant broke up a pass in the end zone on fourth down late in the game.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Colorado will lament a defense that was simply incapable of stopping the Jayhawks. Defensive back Shilo Sanders was flagged twice and gave up several big plays, while the Buffaloes were bullied up front by the Kansas offensive line.Kansas could improbably make a bowl game for a third consecutive season. The Jayhawks merely need to beat Baylor in their regular-season finale — what would be their season-ending fifth straight win — to earn an invitation.<h2>Up Next</h2>Colorado plays Oklahoma State on Friday.Kansas visits Baylor on Saturday.

🏈 Devin Neal scores 4 times, Kansas beats No. 16 Colorado

St. Thomas Aquinas 24, St. James Academy 17

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732329323465.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PREP FOOTBALL=KSHSAA State Tournament=Sub-State=Class 6A=Gardner-Edgerton 34, BV West 25Manhattan 31, Derby 21Class 5A=Hays 24, Goddard-Eisenhower 14St. Thomas Aquinas 24, St. James Academy 17Class 4A=Andover Central 41, Buhler 14Bishop Miege 48, Tonganoxie 13Class 3A=Andale 55, Holcomb 14Topeka Hayden 35, Wellsville 7Class 2A=Nemaha Central 21, Council Grove 6Southeast of Saline 34, Beloit 30Class 1A=Centralia 22, Rossville 9Conway Springs 55, Valley Heights 228 Player, DI=Central Plains 28, Clifton-Clyde 25Hoxie 42, South Central 288 Player, DII=Axtell 52, Frankfort 20Victoria 66, Dighton 206 Player=Cunningham 54, Tescott 8Weskan 82, Golden Plains 45___

Friday state high school football playoff scores, Nov. 22

ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — David N’Guessan had 17 points and nine rebounds, Dug McDaniel added 13 points with five assists and Kansas State beat George Washington 83-71 on Friday night at the Paradise Jam.

Kansas State (4-1) plays a winner-bracket game against Liberty on Sunday. George Washington (4-1) moves to the consolation bracket against Louisiana-Lafayette on Saturday. The Wildcats are playing the Paradise Jam for the third time and first since 2018.

It’s a homecoming for Kansas State coach Jerome Tang and assistant Jareem Dowling, who spent most of their formative years in the Virgin Islands.

McDaniel scored four straight points in a half-closing 6-0 run to make it 46-27 at the break. Kansas State shot 52% from the field in the first half, while George Washington was 7 of 28 (25%).

George Washington scored 10 unanswered points midway through the second half to get within 59-55 with 10:20 left. Coleman Hawkins made a 3-pointer on Kansas State's next possession and McDaniel added a basket with 5:57 left to give Kansas State a double-digit lead it wouldn't give up.

Max Jones scored 12 points, Brendan Hausen added 11 and Hawkins had nine points and nine rebounds for Kansas State. N’Guessan is the only Wildcat to score in double figures in each of the first five games.

Jacoi Hutchinson scored 19 points for George Washington. Rafael Castro added 12 points, and Gerald Drumgoole Jr. and Christian Jones each scored 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732332686797.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — David N’Guessan had 17 points and nine rebounds, Dug McDaniel added 13 points with five assists and Kansas State beat George Washington 83-71 on Friday night at the Paradise Jam.Kansas State (4-1) plays a winner-bracket game against Liberty on Sunday. George Washington (4-1) moves to the consolation bracket against Louisiana-Lafayette on Saturday. The Wildcats are playing the Paradise Jam for the third time and first since 2018.It’s a homecoming for Kansas State coach Jerome Tang and assistant Jareem Dowling, who spent most of their formative years in the Virgin Islands.McDaniel scored four straight points in a half-closing 6-0 run to make it 46-27 at the break. Kansas State shot 52% from the field in the first half, while George Washington was 7 of 28 (25%).George Washington scored 10 unanswered points midway through the second half to get within 59-55 with 10:20 left. Coleman Hawkins made a 3-pointer on Kansas State's next possession and McDaniel added a basket with 5:57 left to give Kansas State a double-digit lead it wouldn't give up.Max Jones scored 12 points, Brendan Hausen added 11 and Hawkins had nine points and nine rebounds for Kansas State. N’Guessan is the only Wildcat to score in double figures in each of the first five games.Jacoi Hutchinson scored 19 points for George Washington. Rafael Castro added 12 points, and Gerald Drumgoole Jr. and Christian Jones each scored 10.

🏀  Kansas State beats George Washington in the Paradise Jam

By Kenny Lannou, Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications/PR&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;Four Wildcat programs recorded Big 12-best graduation rate figures, and K-State’s all-sport graduation rate of 92 percent ranked was the second-highest in department history, as the NCAA released its latest graduation rate data.</a>

K-State’s men’s golf (100), women’s golf (100), tennis (100) and volleyball (100) programs all had Big 12-leading GSR figures, while as a department, K-State was fifth among current Big 12 membership with an overall average GSR of 92 percent. Other notable scores were baseball (92), which ranked third among Big 12 schools, and women’s track and field (97), which ranked second.

All colleges and universities are required by NCAA legislation and federal law (the Student Right-to-Know act from 1990) to report student graduation rates, and those institutions offering athletics aid are required to report for their student-athletes as well. The NCAA acquires student-athlete graduation rate data from the Department of Education’s Integrated Post-Secondary Data System Graduation Rate Survey (IPEDS-GRS).

The student-athlete graduation rate calculated directly based on IPEDS-GRS (which is the methodology the U.S. Department of Education requires) is the proportion of first-year, full-time student-athletes who entered a school on athletics aid and graduated from that institution within six years. This federal rate does not account for students who transfer from their original institution and graduate elsewhere; they are considered non-graduates at both the college they left and the one from which they eventually graduate.

By Kenny Lannou, Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications/PR&nbsp;&nbsp;<a>MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;Four Wildcat programs recorded Big 12-best graduation rate figures, and K-State’s all-sport graduation rate of 92 percent ranked was the second-highest in department history, as the NCAA released its latest graduation rate data.</a>K-State’s men’s golf (100), women’s golf (100), tennis (100) and volleyball (100) programs all had Big 12-leading GSR figures, while as a department, K-State was fifth among current Big 12 membership with an overall average GSR of 92 percent. Other notable scores were baseball (92), which ranked third among Big 12 schools, and women’s track and field (97), which ranked second.All colleges and universities are required by NCAA legislation and federal law (the Student Right-to-Know act from 1990) to report student graduation rates, and those institutions offering athletics aid are required to report for their student-athletes as well. The NCAA acquires student-athlete graduation rate data from the Department of Education’s Integrated Post-Secondary Data System Graduation Rate Survey (IPEDS-GRS).The student-athlete graduation rate calculated directly based on IPEDS-GRS (which is the methodology the U.S. Department of Education requires) is the proportion of first-year, full-time student-athletes who entered a school on athletics aid and graduated from that institution within six years. This federal rate does not account for students who transfer from their original institution and graduate elsewhere; they are considered non-graduates at both the college they left and the one from which they eventually graduate.

 Four Wildcat Programs Highlight Latest Graduation Rate Figures

Luke Fox wins the boys division of Hoop Shoot hitting 5 out of 7 free throws.

The finals of the boys competition in the 2024 Hoop Holler N’ Shoot free throw shooting contest were held during half time of Tuesday’s KSU men’s game.

Participants won their way into the finals via shoot offs conducted at Manhattan area elementary schools among 5th grade students. Over 550 students participated in the competition.

The winners and the schools they represent are as follows:

1st - Luke Fox, Bergman – hitting 5 out of 7

2nd -&nbsp; Kord Crosby, Flint Hills Christian – hitting 4 out of 7

3rd - Landon Clark, Marlatt – hitting 4 out of 7*

Prizes awarded to all finalists included a plaque and a K-State coaches autographed Hoop Holler N’Shoot t-shirt.

This is the 26th Anniversary of Hoop Holler N’ Shoot, during that time over 15,000 5th and 6th graders have participated in the program.

Hoop Holler N’ Shoot is a free throw contest for 5th graders in the Manhattan area schools. A boy and girl champion is determined at each school. The grade school champions move on to semi-finals and finals at Kansas State University basketball games.&nbsp;

Participating sponsors are Manhattan Optimist Club, KS StateBank, McDonalds, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, Manhattan Parks and Recreation, K-State Bands, Q-Country 103.5, and Power Hits 97.5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732136561280.jpeg" alt="Photo Left to Right: Kord Crosby, Luke Fox, Landon Clark" />
 <figcaption>Photo Left to Right: Kord Crosby, Luke Fox, Landon Clark</figcaption>
 </figure>Luke Fox wins the boys division of Hoop Shoot hitting 5 out of 7 free throws.The finals of the boys competition in the 2024 Hoop Holler N’ Shoot free throw shooting contest were held during half time of Tuesday’s KSU men’s game.Participants won their way into the finals via shoot offs conducted at Manhattan area elementary schools among 5th grade students. Over 550 students participated in the competition.The winners and the schools they represent are as follows:1st - Luke Fox, Bergman – hitting 5 out of 72nd -&nbsp; Kord Crosby, Flint Hills Christian – hitting 4 out of 73rd - Landon Clark, Marlatt – hitting 4 out of 7**A shoot-off determined 3rd place.Prizes awarded to all finalists included a plaque and a K-State coaches autographed Hoop Holler N’Shoot t-shirt.This is the 26th Anniversary of Hoop Holler N’ Shoot, during that time over 15,000 5th and 6th graders have participated in the program.Hoop Holler N’ Shoot is a free throw contest for 5th graders in the Manhattan area schools. A boy and girl champion is determined at each school. The grade school champions move on to semi-finals and finals at Kansas State University basketball games.&nbsp;Participating sponsors are Manhattan Optimist Club, KS StateBank, McDonalds, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, Manhattan Parks and Recreation, K-State Bands, Q-Country 103.5, and Power Hits 97.5.

Boys Hoop Holler N' Shoot Contest Champion decided Tuesday night at KSU game

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had 15 points and 15 rebounds, Dajuan Harris Jr. scored 16 points, and No. 1 Kansas shrugged off a sluggish start to beat UNC Wilmington 84-66 on Tuesday night and give Jayhawks coach Bill Self his 800th career win.

David Coit added 13 points and Zeke Mayo had 10 for the Jayhawks (5-0), who led 43-38 at halftime before going on a 12-2 run to start the second half. They stretched the lead to 20 and coasted to their 18th straight nonconference home win.

The Jayhawks next face No. 12 Duke in the Vegas Showdown on Tuesday.

Khamari McGriff had 18 points and Noah Ross had 10 with nine boards for UNC Wilmington (4-1), which was picked to finish third in the Colonial Athletic Association after winning 21 games last season.

The Seahawks weren't intimidated by the 372nd straight sellout at Allen Fieldhouse. They beat Kentucky at Rupp Arena just last season. And while Kansas started the game with energy, UNC Wilmington matched it for the first 20 minutes. It wasn't until Harris led the Jayhawks' early second-half charge that they put the game away.

UNC Wilmington got just seven points from Donovan Newby. He had 20 in a recent win over USC Upstate.

Kansas lost freshman Flory Bidunga to an injury in the first half. He did not put any weight on his right leg as he was helped to the bench. He did not return. Bidunga's loss would be a big blow to the Jayhawks' interior depth.

Kansas roared out of halftime on the run that ultimately decided the game.

The Jayhawks won despite shooting 6 of 25 from 3-point range.

The Seahawks play Colgate on Nov. 27. The Jayhawks play the Blue Devils on Tuesday.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had 15 points and 15 rebounds, Dajuan Harris Jr. scored 16 points, and No. 1 Kansas shrugged off a sluggish start to beat UNC Wilmington 84-66 on Tuesday night and give Jayhawks coach Bill Self his 800th career win.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">History made. <a href="https://t.co/jYdSuHOe7v">pic.twitter.com/jYdSuHOe7v</a>&mdash; Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1859070225657839705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>David Coit added 13 points and Zeke Mayo had 10 for the Jayhawks (5-0), who led 43-38 at halftime before going on a 12-2 run to start the second half. They stretched the lead to 20 and coasted to their 18th straight nonconference home win.The Jayhawks next face No. 12 Duke in the Vegas Showdown on Tuesday.Khamari McGriff had 18 points and Noah Ross had 10 with nine boards for UNC Wilmington (4-1), which was picked to finish third in the Colonial Athletic Association after winning 21 games last season.The Seahawks weren't intimidated by the 372nd straight sellout at Allen Fieldhouse. They beat Kentucky at Rupp Arena just last season. And while Kansas started the game with energy, UNC Wilmington matched it for the first 20 minutes. It wasn't until Harris led the Jayhawks' early second-half charge that they put the game away.<h2>Takeaways</h2>UNC Wilmington got just seven points from Donovan Newby. He had 20 in a recent win over USC Upstate.Kansas lost freshman Flory Bidunga to an injury in the first half. He did not put any weight on his right leg as he was helped to the bench. He did not return. Bidunga's loss would be a big blow to the Jayhawks' interior depth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kansas roared out of halftime on the run that ultimately decided the game.<h2>Key stats</h2>The Jayhawks won despite shooting 6 of 25 from 3-point range.<h2>Up Next</h2>The Seahawks play Colgate on Nov. 27. The Jayhawks play the Blue Devils on Tuesday.___

🏀 No. 1 KU beats UNC Wilmington to give Bill Self 800th career win

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Ugonna Onyenso came off the bench to score 16 points in 12 minutes and Kansas State shook off a poor first half to beat Mississippi Valley State 74-56 on Tuesday night.

On a night the Wildcats (3-1) shot just 36%, Onyenso was 6 of 7 from the floor and made all four of his free throws. C.J. Jones scored 10 of his 12 points in the second half. David N’Guessan added 10 points while Coleman Hawkins, who was just 1-of-11 shooting with two points, grabbed 13 rebounds.

Arthur Tate scored 16 points and Antonio Sisk 15 for the Delta Devils (1-4).

The Wildcats led 25-23 at halftime, having been up by as many as 14, after shooting just 29% and 1 of 13 from 3-point range. They finished 3 of 23 from the arc but hit 25 of 27 free throws.

Brenden Hausen, averaging over 15 points a game for Kansas State, got his first points of the game and the Wildcats' first of the second half with a 3-pointer, and that started a 10-0 run. The lead reached 19 with seven minutes to go.

Mississippi Valley State made a final run to get within 10 but the Wildcats responded with nine straight points, the last four by N'Guessan, to push the lead back to 19.

In the first half, the Delta Devils got a pair of 3-pointers from Tate and five points from Donovan Sanders to outscore the Wildcats 16-4 over the final 4 1/2 minutes to tie before David Castillo's jumper at the end of the half gave the lead back to the Wildcats.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732072855675.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Ugonna Onyenso came off the bench to score 16 points in 12 minutes and Kansas State shook off a poor first half to beat Mississippi Valley State 74-56 on Tuesday night.On a night the Wildcats (3-1) shot just 36%, Onyenso was 6 of 7 from the floor and made all four of his free throws. C.J. Jones scored 10 of his 12 points in the second half. David N’Guessan added 10 points while Coleman Hawkins, who was just 1-of-11 shooting with two points, grabbed 13 rebounds.Arthur Tate scored 16 points and Antonio Sisk 15 for the Delta Devils (1-4).The Wildcats led 25-23 at halftime, having been up by as many as 14, after shooting just 29% and 1 of 13 from 3-point range. They finished 3 of 23 from the arc but hit 25 of 27 free throws.Brenden Hausen, averaging over 15 points a game for Kansas State, got his first points of the game and the Wildcats' first of the second half with a 3-pointer, and that started a 10-0 run. The lead reached 19 with seven minutes to go.Mississippi Valley State made a final run to get within 10 but the Wildcats responded with nine straight points, the last four by N'Guessan, to push the lead back to 19.In the first half, the Delta Devils got a pair of 3-pointers from Tate and five points from Donovan Sanders to outscore the Wildcats 16-4 over the final 4 1/2 minutes to tie before David Castillo's jumper at the end of the half gave the lead back to the Wildcats.

🏀 Onyenso sparks Kansas State in win over Mississippi Valley State

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Kansas State junior&nbsp;DJ Giddens&nbsp;was one of 10 running backs in the country – including four from the Big 12 – to be named a semifinalist for the 2024 Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Tuesday.

Giddens is the fourth player in school history to be named a semifinalist or finalist for the award that recognizes the top running back in college football. Darren Sproles was a finalist in 2003, while Daniel Thomas (2010) and Deuce Vaughn (2021 and 2022) were each semifinalists.

A product of Junction City, Kansas, Giddens has rushed for 1,128 yards and five touchdowns on 176 carries in addition to hauling in 18 catches for 219 yards and another score. He ranks eighth in the country in scrimmage yards per game (134.70), ninth in total rushing yards, 10th&nbsp;in all-purpose yards per game (134.70) and 15th&nbsp;in rushing yards per carry (6.41).

Giddens is the fourth player in school history to record multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons, joining the aforementioned Sproles (2002, 2003, 2004), Thomas (2009, 2010) and Vaughn (2021, 2022). He ranks second in school history in single-season rushing yards per carry (6.41), sixth in rushing yards per game (112.8) and tied for eighth in 100-yard rushing games (6), while he is 98 rushing yards shy of entering the single-season top-10 list and 13 yards away from tying for fifth in school history among juniors.

Three finalists for the 2024 Doak Walker Award will be announced next Tuesday, and the winner will be unveiled live on ESPN during&nbsp;The Home Depot College Football Awards&nbsp;on December 12. The formal presentation of the award will take place at the annual banquet scheduled for January 31, 2025.

Kansas State returns to action on Saturday when the Wildcats host Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Senior Night contest kicks off at 7 p.m., and will be shown on ESPN 2.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Kansas State junior&nbsp;DJ Giddens&nbsp;was one of 10 running backs in the country – including four from the Big 12 – to be named a semifinalist for the 2024 Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Tuesday.Giddens is the fourth player in school history to be named a semifinalist or finalist for the award that recognizes the top running back in college football. Darren Sproles was a finalist in 2003, while Daniel Thomas (2010) and Deuce Vaughn (2021 and 2022) were each semifinalists.A product of Junction City, Kansas, Giddens has rushed for 1,128 yards and five touchdowns on 176 carries in addition to hauling in 18 catches for 219 yards and another score. He ranks eighth in the country in scrimmage yards per game (134.70), ninth in total rushing yards, 10th&nbsp;in all-purpose yards per game (134.70) and 15th&nbsp;in rushing yards per carry (6.41).Giddens is the fourth player in school history to record multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons, joining the aforementioned Sproles (2002, 2003, 2004), Thomas (2009, 2010) and Vaughn (2021, 2022). He ranks second in school history in single-season rushing yards per carry (6.41), sixth in rushing yards per game (112.8) and tied for eighth in 100-yard rushing games (6), while he is 98 rushing yards shy of entering the single-season top-10 list and 13 yards away from tying for fifth in school history among juniors.Three finalists for the 2024 Doak Walker Award will be announced next Tuesday, and the winner will be unveiled live on ESPN during&nbsp;The Home Depot College Football Awards&nbsp;on December 12. The formal presentation of the award will take place at the annual banquet scheduled for January 31, 2025.Kansas State returns to action on Saturday when the Wildcats host Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Senior Night contest kicks off at 7 p.m., and will be shown on ESPN 2.RYAN LACKEY

K-State’s Giddens Named Semifinalist for Doak Walker Award

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23756&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-november-18-2024/4923">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-november-18-2024/4924">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview K-State’s Senior Night contest against Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.

“Good afternoon, every. Obviously, it was a disappointing performance on Saturday. [We] had a long staff meeting yesterday. We talked about a lot of things. It's interesting because, looking at our offense, defense and special teams, I don't think anybody could point a finger to anybody, because I don’t think any unit played up to its capability. We struggled on third down on defense, we struggled to rush the football early, had a couple of turnovers, couldn't get off the field, had a couple opportunities to kick up the field that maybe could have made it a one-score game late. Didn't do it. 

So, we’ve got some guys hurting. I know that because they want to win and want to be successful. Our job is this week to get them right and right the ship because we have another opportunity at home here. These seniors, especially these six-year guys that came in with me when I started, and the fifth-year guys that have been around us for a long time, I want to make sure that those guys have an opportunity to go out well and go out successfully. So, we've got to attack this week and have a really good week of practice. 

We've got some guys banged up that we don't know a lot about yet. That will probably be more later in the week, but we do have some injury issues that we've got to make sure that we have enough depth.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23756&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-november-18-2024/4923">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-november-18-2024/4924">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview K-State’s Senior Night contest against Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.CHRIS KLIEMAN, HEAD COACHOpening Statement…“Good afternoon, every. Obviously, it was a disappointing performance on Saturday. [We] had a long staff meeting yesterday. We talked about a lot of things. It's interesting because, looking at our offense, defense and special teams, I don't think anybody could point a finger to anybody, because I don’t think any unit played up to its capability. We struggled on third down on defense, we struggled to rush the football early, had a couple of turnovers, couldn't get off the field, had a couple opportunities to kick up the field that maybe could have made it a one-score game late. Didn't do it. So, we’ve got some guys hurting. I know that because they want to win and want to be successful. Our job is this week to get them right and right the ship because we have another opportunity at home here. These seniors, especially these six-year guys that came in with me when I started, and the fifth-year guys that have been around us for a long time, I want to make sure that those guys have an opportunity to go out well and go out successfully. So, we've got to attack this week and have a really good week of practice. We've got some guys banged up that we don't know a lot about yet. That will probably be more later in the week, but we do have some injury issues that we've got to make sure that we have enough depth.”

K-State Previews Home Finale During Weekly Press Conference

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1858303241391427722">ran for a 26-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;on fourth down with 2:17 left, sealing the Buffalo Bills' 30-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and handing the two-time defending Super Bowl champions their first loss of the season.

James Cook rushed for two touchdowns and Allen threw a 12-yard TD pass to Curtis Samuel for Buffalo (9-2), which closed the gap on Kansas City (9-1) in the race for the AFC’s top seed.

Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs were the NFL's last undefeated team and finally ran out ways to eke out one-score victories and overcome second-half deficits. The Chiefs had won 15 straight, including playoffs, since they fell 20-14 to the Las Vegas Raiders on Dec. 17, 2023.

The Bills have won six straight and moved closer to their sixth straight AFC East title.

Buffalo has defeated the Chiefs in four straight regular-season meetings, though Kansas City holds the postseason edge, having won the past three matchups dating to 2020. And it wouldn't be a surprise if the teams met again in January.

The packed stadium erupted in chants of “MVP!” as the videoboard showed replays of Allen’s touchdown. Bills coach Sean McDermott opted to go for it on fourth-and-2 instead of kicking a field goal for a five-point lead. Allen faked a pass to his left and then broke up the middle, where he bounced off two Chiefs defenders before crossing the goal line.

Allen played through a sore throwing hand, which was examined on the sideline during the game. He finished 27 of 40 for 262 yards with the TDs passing and rushing and an interception.

The rushing touchdown was the 58th of Allen’s career, moving him into second on the Bills list, one ahead of O.J. Simpson, and seven behind Thurman Thomas. Allen’s two-touchdown outing also increased his total to 244, tying Jim Kelly for first in team history.

Buffalo’s defense ended Kansas City's desperate final drive linebacker Terrel Bernard intercepted Mahomes.

Mahomes finished 23 of 33 for 196 yards with three touchdown passes -- two to tight end Noah Gray and another to Xavier Worthy — and two interceptions.

After trading leads five times in their last meeting — Kansas City’s 27-24 win in the divisional playoff round in January — the teams traded leads four times in the first half. Cook scored twice before halftime and Buffalo took a 16-14 lead into the break, one it never relinquished, after Tyler Bass closed the second quarter by hitting a 33-yard field goal.

A highly anticipated showdown between two of the NFL’s top quarterbacks turned into a battle of defenses through three quarters with the teams exchanging seven punts in calm and mild conditions, with temperatures in the high 40s and minimal wind.

The Bills went ahead 23-14 a little over two minutes into the fourth quarter when Allen capped a 10-play, 83-yard drive with a short pass to Samuel, who sidestepped a defender and raced into the end zone.

Mahomes responded by marching the Chiefs on a 10-play, 70-yard drive that ended with a 1-yard TD catch by Gray with 7:53 left.

The Chiefs had shown resolve in winning their first nine games by a combined 58 points, with four decided on the final play. That included a 16-14 win over Denver last week in which Leo Chenal blocked Wil Lutz’s 35-yard field goal attempt as time expired.

This time there were no late-game dramatics for a Chiefs offense that finished with a season-low 259 yards.

The matchup was just the fifth since 1970 in Week 11 or earlier between teams with eight or more wins. ... Bills DE Von Miller had a sack, moving into sole possession of 17th place on the NFL list with 127 1/2 — one ahead of Derrick Thomas and a half-sack behind Rickey Jackson.

Bills: WR Amari Cooper returned after missing two games with an injury to his left wrist. ... Starting RT Spencer Brown (ankle) did not play.

Bills: After a bye, host San Francisco on Dec. 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731889979914.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1858303241391427722">ran for a 26-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;on fourth down with 2:17 left, sealing the Buffalo Bills' 30-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and handing the two-time defending Super Bowl champions their first loss of the season.James Cook rushed for two touchdowns and Allen threw a 12-yard TD pass to Curtis Samuel for Buffalo (9-2), which closed the gap on Kansas City (9-1) in the race for the AFC’s top seed.Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs were the NFL's last undefeated team and finally ran out ways to eke out one-score victories and overcome second-half deficits. The Chiefs had won 15 straight, including playoffs, since they fell 20-14 to the Las Vegas Raiders on Dec. 17, 2023.The Bills have won six straight and moved closer to their sixth straight AFC East title.Buffalo has defeated the Chiefs in four straight regular-season meetings, though Kansas City holds the postseason edge, having won the past three matchups dating to 2020. And it wouldn't be a surprise if the teams met again in January.The packed stadium erupted in chants of “MVP!” as the videoboard showed replays of Allen’s touchdown. Bills coach Sean McDermott opted to go for it on fourth-and-2 instead of kicking a field goal for a five-point lead. Allen faked a pass to his left and then broke up the middle, where he bounced off two Chiefs defenders before crossing the goal line.Allen played through a sore throwing hand, which was examined on the sideline during the game. He finished 27 of 40 for 262 yards with the TDs passing and rushing and an interception.The rushing touchdown was the 58th of Allen’s career, moving him into second on the Bills list, one ahead of O.J. Simpson, and seven behind Thurman Thomas. Allen’s two-touchdown outing also increased his total to 244, tying Jim Kelly for first in team history.Buffalo’s defense ended Kansas City's desperate final drive linebacker Terrel Bernard intercepted Mahomes.Mahomes finished 23 of 33 for 196 yards with three touchdown passes -- two to tight end Noah Gray and another to Xavier Worthy — and two interceptions.After trading leads five times in their last meeting — Kansas City’s 27-24 win in the divisional playoff round in January — the teams traded leads four times in the first half. Cook scored twice before halftime and Buffalo took a 16-14 lead into the break, one it never relinquished, after Tyler Bass closed the second quarter by hitting a 33-yard field goal.A highly anticipated showdown between two of the NFL’s top quarterbacks turned into a battle of defenses through three quarters with the teams exchanging seven punts in calm and mild conditions, with temperatures in the high 40s and minimal wind.The Bills went ahead 23-14 a little over two minutes into the fourth quarter when Allen capped a 10-play, 83-yard drive with a short pass to Samuel, who sidestepped a defender and raced into the end zone.Mahomes responded by marching the Chiefs on a 10-play, 70-yard drive that ended with a 1-yard TD catch by Gray with 7:53 left.The Chiefs had shown resolve in winning their first nine games by a combined 58 points, with four decided on the final play. That included a 16-14 win over Denver last week in which Leo Chenal blocked Wil Lutz’s 35-yard field goal attempt as time expired.This time there were no late-game dramatics for a Chiefs offense that finished with a season-low 259 yards.<h2>Names and numbers</h2>The matchup was just the fifth since 1970 in Week 11 or earlier between teams with eight or more wins. ... Bills DE Von Miller had a sack, moving into sole possession of 17th place on the NFL list with 127 1/2 — one ahead of Derrick Thomas and a half-sack behind Rickey Jackson.<h2>Injuries</h2>Bills: WR Amari Cooper returned after missing two games with an injury to his left wrist. ... Starting RT Spencer Brown (ankle) did not play.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: At Carolina next Sunday.Bills: After a bye, host San Francisco on Dec. 1.___

🏈 Buffalo hands Kansas City first loss of the season

PROVO, Utah (AP) — Jalon Daniels threw for 169 yards, Dylan Neal ran for two touchdowns and Kansas upset No. 7 BYU 17-13 on Saturday night to hand the Cougars their first loss of the season.

The Jayhawks (4-6, 3-4 Big 12) beat ranked opponents in back-to-back weeks for the first time in school history and improved to 3-0 against the Cougars. Neal surpassed 4,000 yards rushing in his career, finishing with 52 yards on the ground.

The victory over BYU kept alive hopes of Kansas qualifying for a bowl game for a third consecutive season following a 1-5 start.

“I feel like our team has always done a great job being able to stay the course,” Daniels said. “I feel like a big staple within our program is being able to trust the process.”

Jake Retzlaff threw for 192 yards for BYU (9-1, 6-1, No. 6 College Football Playoffs). LJ Martin ran for 76 yards for the Cougars, who were held to a field goal in the second half.

BYU totaled 354 yards but went just 2 of 4 in the red zone and came away with no touchdowns on all four drives inside the 20.

“They had a really good game plan,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said. “Looking at the stats, we just didn’t make enough plays and (made) way too many mistakes to come out with the victory. “

Trailing 13-10 entering the fourth quarter, Kansas went ahead on Neal’s 3-yard run.

Daniels quick-kicked on fourth-and-14 when the drive stalled at BYU’s 36. His kick deflected off Evan Johnson’s helmet and when Jakob Robinson dove to secure it, the ball squirted out of his arms. Quentin Skinner pounced on the loose ball at the 3 to set up the go-ahead score.

“We found a way this time,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said.

BYU drove to the Kansas 15 with two minutes left. The Cougars stalled on offense coming out of the two-minute timeout. They gained four total yards on three straight runs and a false start penalty backed them up to the 16. BYU turned it over on downs with 46 seconds left when Chase Roberts was tackled 3 yards short of a first down.

“We had all the confidence in the world in our defense to be able to go out there and make a stop,” Daniels said.

Both teams scored a touchdown in the first half. Kansas took a 7-0 lead on its opening drive following Neal’s 7-yard burst up the middle. BYU went ahead 10-7 in the second quarter on a 30-yard strike along the sideline from Retzlaff to Hinckley Ropati.

The Cougars had a chance at another go-ahead score before halftime when they drove 70 yards over a minute down to Kansas 5. Mello Dotson intercepted Retzlaff in the end zone on a fade route to keep BYU from putting another touchdown on the board.

“We can’t score in the red zone,” Roberts said. “I feel like we struggled a little bit in practice this week in the red zone, and it carries over. You got to lock in. You got to be prepared when you come out and play a good team like Kansas.”

Kansas: The Jayhawks took care of the ball and made smart decisions against an opportunistic BYU defense that ultimately forced only one turnover.

BYU: A turnover prevented a potential go-ahead score before halftime. A second one led to a late Kansas lead.

BYU opened the third quarter with a 17-play drive that covered 66 yards and took 10:26 off the clock. The drive culminated in a 35-yard field goal from Will Ferrin that ended up being the Cougars' only second-half points.

“It didn’t seem like it was going to ever end,” Leipold said. “That might be one of the longest drives I’ve seen in my career. 17 plays. But to hold them to that field goal was huge.”

BYU will likely drop out of the Top 10 following its first loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731816623983.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVO, Utah (AP) — Jalon Daniels threw for 169 yards, Dylan Neal ran for two touchdowns and Kansas upset No. 7 BYU 17-13 on Saturday night to hand the Cougars their first loss of the season.The Jayhawks (4-6, 3-4 Big 12) beat ranked opponents in back-to-back weeks for the first time in school history and improved to 3-0 against the Cougars. Neal surpassed 4,000 yards rushing in his career, finishing with 52 yards on the ground.The victory over BYU kept alive hopes of Kansas qualifying for a bowl game for a third consecutive season following a 1-5 start.“I feel like our team has always done a great job being able to stay the course,” Daniels said. “I feel like a big staple within our program is being able to trust the process.”Jake Retzlaff threw for 192 yards for BYU (9-1, 6-1, No. 6 College Football Playoffs). LJ Martin ran for 76 yards for the Cougars, who were held to a field goal in the second half.BYU totaled 354 yards but went just 2 of 4 in the red zone and came away with no touchdowns on all four drives inside the 20.“They had a really good game plan,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said. “Looking at the stats, we just didn’t make enough plays and (made) way too many mistakes to come out with the victory. “Trailing 13-10 entering the fourth quarter, Kansas went ahead on Neal’s 3-yard run.Daniels quick-kicked on fourth-and-14 when the drive stalled at BYU’s 36. His kick deflected off Evan Johnson’s helmet and when Jakob Robinson dove to secure it, the ball squirted out of his arms. Quentin Skinner pounced on the loose ball at the 3 to set up the go-ahead score.“We found a way this time,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said.BYU drove to the Kansas 15 with two minutes left. The Cougars stalled on offense coming out of the two-minute timeout. They gained four total yards on three straight runs and a false start penalty backed them up to the 16. BYU turned it over on downs with 46 seconds left when Chase Roberts was tackled 3 yards short of a first down.“We had all the confidence in the world in our defense to be able to go out there and make a stop,” Daniels said.Both teams scored a touchdown in the first half. Kansas took a 7-0 lead on its opening drive following Neal’s 7-yard burst up the middle. BYU went ahead 10-7 in the second quarter on a 30-yard strike along the sideline from Retzlaff to Hinckley Ropati.The Cougars had a chance at another go-ahead score before halftime when they drove 70 yards over a minute down to Kansas 5. Mello Dotson intercepted Retzlaff in the end zone on a fade route to keep BYU from putting another touchdown on the board.“We can’t score in the red zone,” Roberts said. “I feel like we struggled a little bit in practice this week in the red zone, and it carries over. You got to lock in. You got to be prepared when you come out and play a good team like Kansas.”<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks took care of the ball and made smart decisions against an opportunistic BYU defense that ultimately forced only one turnover.BYU: A turnover prevented a potential go-ahead score before halftime. A second one led to a late Kansas lead.<h2>Longest yards</h2>BYU opened the third quarter with a 17-play drive that covered 66 yards and took 10:26 off the clock. The drive culminated in a 35-yard field goal from Will Ferrin that ended up being the Cougars' only second-half points.“It didn’t seem like it was going to ever end,” Leipold said. “That might be one of the longest drives I’ve seen in my career. 17 plays. But to hold them to that field goal was huge.”<h2>Poll implications</h2>BYU will likely drop out of the Top 10 following its first loss.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: Hosts Colorado on Saturday.

🏈 Kansas upsets BYU handing the Cougars their first loss of the season

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Sam Leavitt threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns, Jordyn Tyson had 12 catches for 176 yards and two of the scores, and Arizona State held off No. 16 Kansas State 24-14 on Saturday night in the Sun Devils' first trip to their new Big 12 rival.

Cam Skattebo returned from an injury to run for 73 yards, and the Sun Devils (8-2, 5-2) built a 21-0 halftime lead, before Kenny Dillingham's team held on for a third straight win to remain in contention for the Big 12 championship game.

Avery Johnson threw for 258 yards with two interceptions and a touchdown run for Kansas State (7-3, 4-3, No. 16 CFP), which had been 4-0 at home this season and 15-3 over the past three. D.J. Giddens ran for 133 yards and Joe Jackson had a TD run.

The bumbling Wildcats, who turned the ball over three times and failed to get the snap down on two field-goal tries, sure didn't look like a conference title contender that had last week off to prepare for the Sun Devils.

Johnson was picked off on the second play of the game, and Arizona State marched 49 yards with Leavitt hitting Tyson for the touchdown. On the next series, Dylan Edwards and Giddens were stuffed on consecutive carries, giving the Sun Devils the ball back on downs. And on the Wildcats' third series, Jayce Brown fumbled the ball away after a catch.

Arizona State capitalized on all the mistakes. Leavitt found Tyson for the second time from 30 yards out for a 14-0 lead, then hit wide open Chamon Metayer from 16 yards out to make it 21-0 early in the second quarter.

The cacophony of errors continued for the Wildcats: They had a 67-yard TD reception negated when offensive lineman Andrew Leingang blocked too far downfield. Johnson overthrew wide open Ty Bowman on a would-be 69-yard connection. And with first-and-goal at the Arizona State 5, they not only failed to get into the end zone but fumbled away the field-goal snap.

Arizona State headed to halftime serenaded by the sound of Kansas State fans booing their own team.

The Wildcats tried to rally late, beginning with Johnson's touchdown with 2:51 left in the third quarter. They got the ball back and needed just 1:19 to score again and convert the 2-point conversion. But the Sun Devils picked up a couple of first downs on their next possession, running enough clock to make Kansas State's comeback bid nearly impossible.

The Wildcats muffed one last field-goal try with just over 2 minutes left that would have made it a one-possession game.

Arizona State was picked to finish last in the Big 12 but is very much alive in the title chase. The Sun Devils face seven-ranked BYU, which along with No. 17 Colorado is ahead of them in the standings, at home next week.

Kansas State's Big 12 title chances essentially ended thanks to two straight dismal halves. The Wildcats allowed Houston to rally from a 19-10 second-half deficit in a 24-19 loss, then dug a first-half hole Saturday night that was far too deep.

Arizona State has a showdown with BYU on Saturday.

Kansas State plays its home finale Saturday against Cincinnati.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731815106446.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Sam Leavitt threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns, Jordyn Tyson had 12 catches for 176 yards and two of the scores, and Arizona State held off No. 16 Kansas State 24-14 on Saturday night in the Sun Devils' first trip to their new Big 12 rival.Cam Skattebo returned from an injury to run for 73 yards, and the Sun Devils (8-2, 5-2) built a 21-0 halftime lead, before Kenny Dillingham's team held on for a third straight win to remain in contention for the Big 12 championship game.Avery Johnson threw for 258 yards with two interceptions and a touchdown run for Kansas State (7-3, 4-3, No. 16 CFP), which had been 4-0 at home this season and 15-3 over the past three. D.J. Giddens ran for 133 yards and Joe Jackson had a TD run.The bumbling Wildcats, who turned the ball over three times and failed to get the snap down on two field-goal tries, sure didn't look like a conference title contender that had last week off to prepare for the Sun Devils.Johnson was picked off on the second play of the game, and Arizona State marched 49 yards with Leavitt hitting Tyson for the touchdown. On the next series, Dylan Edwards and Giddens were stuffed on consecutive carries, giving the Sun Devils the ball back on downs. And on the Wildcats' third series, Jayce Brown fumbled the ball away after a catch.Arizona State capitalized on all the mistakes. Leavitt found Tyson for the second time from 30 yards out for a 14-0 lead, then hit wide open Chamon Metayer from 16 yards out to make it 21-0 early in the second quarter.The cacophony of errors continued for the Wildcats: They had a 67-yard TD reception negated when offensive lineman Andrew Leingang blocked too far downfield. Johnson overthrew wide open Ty Bowman on a would-be 69-yard connection. And with first-and-goal at the Arizona State 5, they not only failed to get into the end zone but fumbled away the field-goal snap.Arizona State headed to halftime serenaded by the sound of Kansas State fans booing their own team.The Wildcats tried to rally late, beginning with Johnson's touchdown with 2:51 left in the third quarter. They got the ball back and needed just 1:19 to score again and convert the 2-point conversion. But the Sun Devils picked up a couple of first downs on their next possession, running enough clock to make Kansas State's comeback bid nearly impossible.The Wildcats muffed one last field-goal try with just over 2 minutes left that would have made it a one-possession game.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Arizona State was picked to finish last in the Big 12 but is very much alive in the title chase. The Sun Devils face seven-ranked BYU, which along with No. 17 Colorado is ahead of them in the standings, at home next week.Kansas State's Big 12 title chances essentially ended thanks to two straight dismal halves. The Wildcats allowed Houston to rally from a 19-10 second-half deficit in a 24-19 loss, then dug a first-half hole Saturday night that was far too deep.<h2>Up Next</h2>Arizona State has a showdown with BYU on Saturday.Kansas State plays its home finale Saturday against Cincinnati.___

🏈Arizona State holds on to beat No. 16 Kansas State 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — AJ Storr had a season-high 16 points off the bench and three starters also reached double figures as No. 1 Kansas easily handled Oakland 78-57 on Saturday.

KJ Adams scored 10 of his 12 points in the first half, Rylan Griffen added 11 and Hunter Dickinson finished with 10. Dickinson led the Jayhawks with nine rebounds.

Kansas (4-0) pulled away methodically in the first half, leading by 22 at halftime. The Grizzlies never got closer than 18 in the second half. Kansas played the final 4:32 with only reserves in the game.

Allen Mukeba led Oakland (1-3) with 19 points, and Tuburu Naivalurua added 12.

Oakland struggled from 3-point range, shooting 6 of 23 (27%), and was woeful at the free-throw line (3 for 12).

Oakland: The Grizzlies were no match for Kansas inside during the first half, when the game was decided. They were outrebounded 20-12 and outscored 26-14 in the paint.

Kansas: The Jayhawks have too much depth for a mid-major program like Oakland to overcome. The Jayhawks got points from 11 players. They had 36 bench points, compared to 17 for Oakland.

Dickinson hit a floater in the lane at the 4:37 mark of the first half to give Kansas a 34-17 cushion. Griffen made a baseline 3 just before the buzzer, and the Jayhawks took a 46-24 lead into the locker room.

DaJuan Harris scored only two points in 23 minutes, but he had six assists and just one turnover. He was tenacious on defense, with four steals — including three in the first few minutes of the second half when Kansas eliminated any thoughts of an Oakland comeback.

Oakland returns home to face Eastern Michigan on Thursday. Kansas hosts UNC-Wilmington on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731808768559.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — AJ Storr had a season-high 16 points off the bench and three starters also reached double figures as No. 1 Kansas easily handled Oakland 78-57 on Saturday.KJ Adams scored 10 of his 12 points in the first half, Rylan Griffen added 11 and Hunter Dickinson finished with 10. Dickinson led the Jayhawks with nine rebounds.Kansas (4-0) pulled away methodically in the first half, leading by 22 at halftime. The Grizzlies never got closer than 18 in the second half. Kansas played the final 4:32 with only reserves in the game.Allen Mukeba led Oakland (1-3) with 19 points, and Tuburu Naivalurua added 12.Oakland struggled from 3-point range, shooting 6 of 23 (27%), and was woeful at the free-throw line (3 for 12).<h2>Takeaways</h2>Oakland: The Grizzlies were no match for Kansas inside during the first half, when the game was decided. They were outrebounded 20-12 and outscored 26-14 in the paint.Kansas: The Jayhawks have too much depth for a mid-major program like Oakland to overcome. The Jayhawks got points from 11 players. They had 36 bench points, compared to 17 for Oakland.<h2>Key moments</h2>Dickinson hit a floater in the lane at the 4:37 mark of the first half to give Kansas a 34-17 cushion. Griffen made a baseline 3 just before the buzzer, and the Jayhawks took a 46-24 lead into the locker room.<h2>Key stats</h2>DaJuan Harris scored only two points in 23 minutes, but he had six assists and just one turnover. He was tenacious on defense, with four steals — including three in the first few minutes of the second half when Kansas eliminated any thoughts of an Oakland comeback.<h2>Up next</h2>Oakland returns home to face Eastern Michigan on Thursday. Kansas hosts UNC-Wilmington on Wednesday.

🏀No. 1 Kansas beats Oakland as Storr scores 16 off the bench

DALLAS(AP)— Bela Karolyi, the charismatic if polarizing gymnastics coach who turned young women into champions and the United States into an international power, has died. He was 82.

USA Gymnastics said Karolyi died Friday. No cause of death was given.

Karolyi and wife Martha trained multiple Olympic gold medalists and world champions in the U.S. and Romania, including Nadia Comaneci and Mary Lou Retton.

“A big impact and influence on my life,” Comaneci, who was just 14 when Karolyi coached her to gold for Romania at the 1976 Montreal Olympics,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCc1ex3pJWU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank">posted on Instagram</a>.

The Karolyis defected to the United States in 1981 and over the next 30-plus years became a guiding force in American gymnastics, though not without controversy. Bela helped guide Retton — all of 16 — to the Olympic all-around title at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles and memorably helped an injured Kerri Strug off the floor at the 1996 Games in Atlanta after Strug’s vault secured the team gold for the Americans.

Karolyi briefly became the national team coordinator for USA Gymnastics women’s elite program in 1999 and incorporated a semi-centralized system that eventually turned the Americans into the sport’s gold standard. It did not come without a cost. He was pushed out after the 2000 Olympics after several athletes spoke out about his tactics.

It would not be the last time Karolyi was accused of grandstanding and pushing his athletes too far physically and mentally.

During the height of the Larry Nassar scandal in the late 2010s — when the disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doctor was effectively given a life sentence after pleading guilty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-lansing-in-state-wire-north-america-de31f08ab1fe435c88129d64bd1fbee4">to sexually assaulting gymnasts and other athletes</a>&nbsp;with his hands under the guise of medical treatment — over a dozen former gymnasts came forward saying the Karolyis were part of a system&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0c67e962d7524c87a865d3c468bdd521">that created an oppressive culture</a>&nbsp;that allowed Nassar’s behavior to run unchecked for years.

Still, some of Karolyi’s most famous students were always among his staunchest defenders. When Strug got married, she and Karolyi took a photo recreating their famous scene from the 1996 Olympics, when he carried her onto the medals podium after she vaulted on a badly sprained ankle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731809212531.png" alt="i" />
 <figcaption>i</figcaption>
 </figure>DALLAS(AP)— Bela Karolyi, the charismatic if polarizing gymnastics coach who turned young women into champions and the United States into an international power, has died. He was 82.USA Gymnastics said Karolyi died Friday. No cause of death was given.Karolyi and wife Martha trained multiple Olympic gold medalists and world champions in the U.S. and Romania, including Nadia Comaneci and Mary Lou Retton.“A big impact and influence on my life,” Comaneci, who was just 14 when Karolyi coached her to gold for Romania at the 1976 Montreal Olympics,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCc1ex3pJWU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank">posted on Instagram</a>.The Karolyis defected to the United States in 1981 and over the next 30-plus years became a guiding force in American gymnastics, though not without controversy. Bela helped guide Retton — all of 16 — to the Olympic all-around title at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles and memorably helped an injured Kerri Strug off the floor at the 1996 Games in Atlanta after Strug’s vault secured the team gold for the Americans.Karolyi briefly became the national team coordinator for USA Gymnastics women’s elite program in 1999 and incorporated a semi-centralized system that eventually turned the Americans into the sport’s gold standard. It did not come without a cost. He was pushed out after the 2000 Olympics after several athletes spoke out about his tactics.It would not be the last time Karolyi was accused of grandstanding and pushing his athletes too far physically and mentally.During the height of the Larry Nassar scandal in the late 2010s — when the disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doctor was effectively given a life sentence after pleading guilty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-lansing-in-state-wire-north-america-de31f08ab1fe435c88129d64bd1fbee4">to sexually assaulting gymnasts and other athletes</a>&nbsp;with his hands under the guise of medical treatment — over a dozen former gymnasts came forward saying the Karolyis were part of a system&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0c67e962d7524c87a865d3c468bdd521">that created an oppressive culture</a>&nbsp;that allowed Nassar’s behavior to run unchecked for years.Still, some of Karolyi’s most famous students were always among his staunchest defenders. When Strug got married, she and Karolyi took a photo recreating their famous scene from the 1996 Olympics, when he carried her onto the medals podium after she vaulted on a badly sprained ankle.

Gymnastics coach Bela Karolyi, who trained multiple Olympic gold medalists has died

Victoria 70, Hutchinson Central Christian 28

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731764414412.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PREP FOOTBALL KSHSAA State PlayoffsSectional=Class 6A=BV West 35, SM Northwest 20Derby 63, Wichita East 28Gardner-Edgerton 44, BV Northwest 29Manhattan 49, Wichita Northwest 28Class 5A=Goddard-Eisenhower 44, Topeka Seaman 14Hays 28, Hutchinson 0St. James Academy 45, BV North 6St. Thomas Aquinas 23, Mill Valley 22Class 4A=Andover Central 58, Wellington 13Bishop Miege 37, Chanute 13Buhler 28, Wamego 14Tonganoxie 21, Lansing 7Class 3A=Andale 52, Cheney 14Holcomb 10, Scott City 7Topeka Hayden 56, Perry-Lecompton 6Wellsville 35, Prairie View 14Class 2A=Beloit 19, Garden Plain 0Council Grove 31, Humboldt 8Nemaha Central 33, Osage City 27Southeast of Saline 30, Hoisington 88 Player, DI=Central Plains 38, Little River 32Clifton-Clyde 46, Madison 0Hoxie 40, Wichita County 30South Central 60, Hill City 128 Player, DII=Axtell 54, Osborne 8Dighton 44, Hodgeman County 22Frankfort 46, Burlington 38Victoria 70, Hutchinson Central Christian 286 Player=Cunningham 52, Otis-Bison 6Golden Plains 45, South Barber 38Tescott 26, Peabody-Burns 13Weskan 57, Ingalls 12

Kansas high school football scoreboard

The Kansas State Wildcat football team will host Arizona State on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The theme for the game is Fort Riley Day.&nbsp;

The First Infantry Division and Fort Riley will provide a flyover when the K-State football team arrives at Bill Snyder Family Stadium at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;

Before the game, Fort Riley and The First Infantry Division will showcase some Military equipment and have service members participating in pregame events.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731690534320.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy of KSU Sports Facebook Page)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy of KSU Sports Facebook Page)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Kansas State Wildcat football team will host Arizona State on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The theme for the game is Fort Riley Day.&nbsp;The First Infantry Division and Fort Riley will provide a flyover when the K-State football team arrives at Bill Snyder Family Stadium at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731690972064.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Before the game, Fort Riley and The First Infantry Division will showcase some Military equipment and have service members participating in pregame events.&nbsp;

Fort Riley to provide Flyover as KSU Football team arrives on Saturday 

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cam Carter scored 20 points against his former team, freshman Vyctorius Miller added 15 points and LSU beat Kansas State 76-65 on Thursday night.

Carter, who spent his sophomore and junior seasons with Kansas State, was 6 of 11 from the field, including three made 3-pointers. He has scored 62 points and made 11 of 19 3-pointers in his first three games with LSU after averaging 14.6 points last season with the Wildcats.

Dug McDaniel drove the baseline for an open layup and made a steal at the other end, leading to his fast-break layup to cut Kansas State’s deficit to 56-46 with 9:14 remaining. After a timeout, Carter sank a 3-pointer from the top of the arc.

Miller missed a wide open 3-pointer early in the shot clock in the closing minutes but got his own rebound before making a 3 from the corner to extend the lead to 72-57 with 2:33 left.

It was just Kansas State’s fifth loss at home in 36 games under coach Jerome Tang.

Jordan Sears had 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and Daimion Collins added 12 points for LSU (3-0). Corey Chest, who entered with just three minutes played this season, grabbed 13 rebounds in 21 minutes.

David N’Guessan and McDaniel each scored 16 for Kansas State (2-1).

It was the third consecutive year the teams have played each other. LSU and K-State first met in the finals of the Cayman Islands Classic, with Kansas State winning 61-59 when a late LSU bucket was disallowed. Then last year the Wildcats won 75-60 in the Maravich Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731637852156.png" alt="KState" />
 <figcaption>KState</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cam Carter scored 20 points against his former team, freshman Vyctorius Miller added 15 points and LSU beat Kansas State 76-65 on Thursday night.Carter, who spent his sophomore and junior seasons with Kansas State, was 6 of 11 from the field, including three made 3-pointers. He has scored 62 points and made 11 of 19 3-pointers in his first three games with LSU after averaging 14.6 points last season with the Wildcats.Dug McDaniel drove the baseline for an open layup and made a steal at the other end, leading to his fast-break layup to cut Kansas State’s deficit to 56-46 with 9:14 remaining. After a timeout, Carter sank a 3-pointer from the top of the arc.Miller missed a wide open 3-pointer early in the shot clock in the closing minutes but got his own rebound before making a 3 from the corner to extend the lead to 72-57 with 2:33 left.It was just Kansas State’s fifth loss at home in 36 games under coach Jerome Tang.Jordan Sears had 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and Daimion Collins added 12 points for LSU (3-0). Corey Chest, who entered with just three minutes played this season, grabbed 13 rebounds in 21 minutes.David N’Guessan and McDaniel each scored 16 for Kansas State (2-1).It was the third consecutive year the teams have played each other. LSU and K-State first met in the finals of the Cayman Islands Classic, with Kansas State winning 61-59 when a late LSU bucket was disallowed. Then last year the Wildcats won 75-60 in the Maravich Center.

🏀 LSU beats K-State behind former Wildcat Cam Carter's 20 points 

Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Conor Riley&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex prior to Kansas State’s game on Saturday against Arizona State.&nbsp;

CONOR RILEY, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On if opposing defenses are playing K-State differently the last few games…

“No, not terribly different. You look at the latter part of the Kansas game, and I think there’s a little bit more pressure than maybe what they typically had done. You look at the latter part of the Houston game, and maybe a little bit more where they’re loading the box. How much was it? What the weather was like. Some of our challenges that we had getting the ball to the perimeter in that particular game, those are all some of the things you analyze.”

On if they need to be better against particular loaded boxes and pressure…

“I do know one thing – we need to stay on blocks much better. When you look at that – and credit our last opponent, and quite honestly, our last two opponents – I think that they were both very good up front. We knew going into it they were going to be very good up front. We need to do a better job at executing, and we need to do a better job of being more physical at the point of contact. It’s kind of one of those things where we’re getting a double hat on a guy, and we just didn’t get that much movement. That’s something that certainly we’ve emphasized and we’ve worked, and we need to be much better at.”

On Arizona State’s safeties and nickel do well…

“Well, when you look at their nickel and their safety, who I believe are their top two leading tacklers, both of them are aggressive. Both of them are very physical. They’re very active. I think they’re extremely well coached. I’ve coached against this defensive coordinator. He was at University of Nevada in 2021. Prior to that, he was at Western Illinois when I coached at North Dakota State. I just think he does a phenomenal job. I know the linebackers coach personally, and he’s a great coach as well. So, I think they’re very well coached, and I think they play very fast and play very aggressive.”

On if the offensive linemen took the last game hard…

“I think they’ve responded very well. I’ve been very pleased with how they’ve responded. They should – and all of us – look at how that game unfolded throughout it, and when we are called upon as an offensive line to run the football, we weren’t nearly as efficient as we needed to be at that very particular time.”

On if there were any younger players that stood out…

“Especially coming out of a bye week, you’re starting to see guys who are developing more and more this past week and for the past few weeks. I can speak to myself, I’ll start there – Gus Hawkins is doing a really, really good job. Navarro Schunke, both guys who have taken some of those reps during our developmental stuff last week, where I really thought those guys did some fantastic things. Tre Spivey is going to have more of an opportunity. I just continue to see him play with more and more confidence, and his knowledge of the offense is continuing to get better. I’m very, very pleased with him. I think Joe Jackson, his role is continuing to improve as well.”

On Avery Johnson’s various rush attempts per game…

“A little bit of it is what is the defense giving us when you start getting into some of the read game? I thought that they had a pretty good plan last week as opposed to two weeks ago. So, some of it is dictated on that. We every single week have a dedicated, what you’d call, dedicated quarterback run. Absolutely you do, and I still contend you need to be very measured when you’re using those tools. Then you have a little bit more of the read game. On some of the read game, you can see where he’s very effective, and you can see where some teams have done a good job of taking some of that away.”

JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On playing against Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo…

“He’s a phenomenal player. He’s really good. There’s a lot of really good backs in this league, and it’s hard to compare and contrast them, but he’s right up there with any of them. Unbelievable contact balance, competitor. I’m not a big stats guy, but I bet he breaks as many tackles as anybody in the league or in the country for that matter. He’s a good football player.”

On what stands out the running game of Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt..

“The first thing that I thought when I saw him was how decisive he is. I don’t think he hesitates when he either sees what he likes or doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull it down and scramble if he doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull the trigger on something that’s open. He’s decisive when he’s pulling the ball in their read game. He’s decisive in their RPO game. They got with a really good combination of guys over there.”

Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Conor Riley&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex prior to Kansas State’s game on Saturday against Arizona State.&nbsp;CONOR RILEY, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOROn if opposing defenses are playing K-State differently the last few games…“No, not terribly different. You look at the latter part of the Kansas game, and I think there’s a little bit more pressure than maybe what they typically had done. You look at the latter part of the Houston game, and maybe a little bit more where they’re loading the box. How much was it? What the weather was like. Some of our challenges that we had getting the ball to the perimeter in that particular game, those are all some of the things you analyze.”On if they need to be better against particular loaded boxes and pressure…“I do know one thing – we need to stay on blocks much better. When you look at that – and credit our last opponent, and quite honestly, our last two opponents – I think that they were both very good up front. We knew going into it they were going to be very good up front. We need to do a better job at executing, and we need to do a better job of being more physical at the point of contact. It’s kind of one of those things where we’re getting a double hat on a guy, and we just didn’t get that much movement. That’s something that certainly we’ve emphasized and we’ve worked, and we need to be much better at.”On Arizona State’s safeties and nickel do well…“Well, when you look at their nickel and their safety, who I believe are their top two leading tacklers, both of them are aggressive. Both of them are very physical. They’re very active. I think they’re extremely well coached. I’ve coached against this defensive coordinator. He was at University of Nevada in 2021. Prior to that, he was at Western Illinois when I coached at North Dakota State. I just think he does a phenomenal job. I know the linebackers coach personally, and he’s a great coach as well. So, I think they’re very well coached, and I think they play very fast and play very aggressive.”On if the offensive linemen took the last game hard…“I think they’ve responded very well. I’ve been very pleased with how they’ve responded. They should – and all of us – look at how that game unfolded throughout it, and when we are called upon as an offensive line to run the football, we weren’t nearly as efficient as we needed to be at that very particular time.”On if there were any younger players that stood out…“Especially coming out of a bye week, you’re starting to see guys who are developing more and more this past week and for the past few weeks. I can speak to myself, I’ll start there – Gus Hawkins is doing a really, really good job. Navarro Schunke, both guys who have taken some of those reps during our developmental stuff last week, where I really thought those guys did some fantastic things. Tre Spivey is going to have more of an opportunity. I just continue to see him play with more and more confidence, and his knowledge of the offense is continuing to get better. I’m very, very pleased with him. I think Joe Jackson, his role is continuing to improve as well.”On Avery Johnson’s various rush attempts per game…“A little bit of it is what is the defense giving us when you start getting into some of the read game? I thought that they had a pretty good plan last week as opposed to two weeks ago. So, some of it is dictated on that. We every single week have a dedicated, what you’d call, dedicated quarterback run. Absolutely you do, and I still contend you need to be very measured when you’re using those tools. Then you have a little bit more of the read game. On some of the read game, you can see where he’s very effective, and you can see where some teams have done a good job of taking some of that away.”JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOROn playing against Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo…“He’s a phenomenal player. He’s really good. There’s a lot of really good backs in this league, and it’s hard to compare and contrast them, but he’s right up there with any of them. Unbelievable contact balance, competitor. I’m not a big stats guy, but I bet he breaks as many tackles as anybody in the league or in the country for that matter. He’s a good football player.”On what stands out the running game of Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt..“The first thing that I thought when I saw him was how decisive he is. I don’t think he hesitates when he either sees what he likes or doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull it down and scramble if he doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull the trigger on something that’s open. He’s decisive when he’s pulling the ball in their read game. He’s decisive in their RPO game. They got with a really good combination of guys over there.”On Arizona State defeating UCF without running back Cam Skattebo..“Well, schematically they’re very sound. So that didn’t surprise me that they were able to move the ball and do some things. They’ve got a tremendous receiver core, too. When you put all of those things in conjunction, the weapons they have, I feel like they have good receiving tight ends as well. They got a lot of weapons. They’re not a one-dimensional team. Skattebo is just so good that people think that he’s the reason – and he is a big part of the reason – but they have other ways that they can get you.”On if any up-and-coming defenders excited him over the bye week…“There were several, but the two that just jump into my mind right away are Jordan Allen and Ryan Davis. We did a little bit more work with guys that – I wouldn’t quite call them developmental guys, although they probably fit that category – guys that have played some but haven’t been in the mix a ton. That was kind of the emphasis of our practices this past week, and those two guys were above dominant. There were other people I could name, but those two guys stood out to me as guys that were outstanding.”On the importance of the front seven making an impact against Arizona State’s running game…“We’re going to have to control the line of scrimmage and change the line of scrimmage. We’re not going to be successful tackling this guy if he’s able to run downhill or at 45-degree angles. So, our ability to get knock back, our ability to move, our ability to change direction, those are going to be paramount, as they are in any week in any run defense. Philosophically, that’s not us. We’re not a catch you and read you. We’re going to try to be disruptive every chance we can, and hopefully we can do that and keep him embodied up and stop his feet in the backfield.”