The Worth County Tigers overcame their demons of the 2023 MSHSAA Show Me Bowl, where they fell to the Archie Whirlwinds 40-26, defeating Archie 36-34 in the MSHSAA 8-man semifinals to advance to the state championship game at Missouri Western State University.

After being eliminated in the quarterfinals of last years playoffs, falling to North Shelby, the Tigers are back in the MSHSAA Show Me Bowl for the 13th time in the school's history.&nbsp; They're still seeking their first state championship since 2017.

Head coach Jon Adwell says it gets the monkey off your back a little bit to get back in, after last year feeling like they got left out last year with the quarterfinal loss.

"Our kids that's always on their minds, they want to be that next group, and that's why they work so hard is they want to be that group and so we're excited to be able to get the opportunity to try to go up and do that," Adwell tells reporters after the game.&nbsp;

Junior Bo Collins, who had four catches for 41 yards and a touchdown in the 2023 championship loss, says it means a lot for the team, and the community, to get another shot at a state championship.

"You know our last state championship that we won was 2017, and since then we've got there multiple times, and we've been close to getting there multiple times, and haven't got it done," Collins says.&nbsp; "So this is really important for our community, for our school, for our team, to be able to go out there and give it our best effort."

After falling behind on a rushing touchdown by Jackson Kash in the first quarter, Worth County responded to start the second quarter and took the lead, first tying the game on a touchdown run from Jude Archer, before quarterback Hayden Sanders kept the ball himself and ran it in for the two point conversion, giving the Tigers an 8-6 lead.&nbsp;

Worth County extended its lead on a play action pass from Sanders, finding tight end Caleb New for a long touchdown strike, and then on the two point conversion completing a pass to Collins, who made an impressive tip toe snag in the back of the endzone.&nbsp; Archie though cut into the lead, Kash finding the endzone again, this time on a pass from Tristan Leeper, and Leeper went on to keep it himself to convert the two point try, making it 16-14 at the halftime break.&nbsp;

Out of the break, the Tigers took a move out of the Sean Payton playbook from the 2010 Super Bowl, attempting an onside kick, the Whirlwinds though recovered and quickly took their first lead since the first quarter as Leeper ran along the sideline for a touchdown, and then completed a two point pass to Josh Lough.&nbsp; Worth County tied up the game on the ensuing drive however, Sanders keeping it himself and diving across the goal line, leaving the game tied at 22 after the two point attempt was stopped.&nbsp;

The tie held until the start of the fourth quarter, where Archie took the lead back on another touchdown run from Leeper, Worth County stopped the two point try though, keeping within a touchdown.&nbsp; Brayden Stevens got that touchdown, and Archer converted the two point try on a run, giving the Tigers a 30-28 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Whirlwinds were stopped on fourth down for a turnover on downs on the next drive, and Stevens extended the lead with his second touchdown of the game, the two point conversion attempt was dropped though in the endzone, leaving it a one possession game.&nbsp; Archie took advantage, Leeper scoring his third rushing touchdown, fourth overall, the Tigers prevented a tie though, swatting a two point conversion pass down at the line and leaving it 36-34 with 4:26 left in the game.&nbsp;

Archie attempted an onside kick to get the ball back, Worth County though recovered, and then went to work chewing down the clock before having to punt with just over a minute left in the game.&nbsp; On third down, under pressure Leeper attempted to get the ball downfield and was picked off by Sanders, allowing the Tigers to kneel the ball on the final two plays and celebrate another trip to the championship.&nbsp;

Now in the championship, it's a date with the Rock Port Blue Jays, a team that beat Worth County in the first week of this season in a hard tested battle 34-26.&nbsp; Adwell knows they will have their hands full again with players from the Blue Jays, such as Brock Holmes and&nbsp;Jack Meyerkorth.

"We've got to do a good job of being able to kind of bottle them up and slow them down, and stick to what we do, try to control the game by running the ball and that really pays off I think down the road," Adwell says.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Collins says since the week one loss, they knew there was a good chance they could run into Rock Port again in the playoffs.&nbsp; Now with a chance at redemption for the only loss of the season for Worth County, Collins says they just have to be ready because they know the Blue Jays are a great team.

"They're going to give us everything they've got and we know that, so we've just got to go into the week preparing for that and just do what we've done all year," Collins says.&nbsp;

Worth County and Rock Port will kick off at 7pm on Thursday at Spratt Memorial Stadium.&nbsp; We are scheduled to broadcast that game live on St. Joseph Post and Maryville Post, with pregame at 6pm.&nbsp; Stay tuned to our St. Joseph and Maryville Post Facebook pages and our websites for those.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764471629556.jpeg" alt="Jude Archer (12) breaks away for a touchdown run as Tristan Leeper (4) attempts to chase him down/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Jude Archer (12) breaks away for a touchdown run as Tristan Leeper (4) attempts to chase him down/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Worth County Tigers overcame their demons of the 2023 MSHSAA Show Me Bowl, where they fell to the Archie Whirlwinds 40-26, defeating Archie 36-34 in the MSHSAA 8-man semifinals to advance to the state championship game at Missouri Western State University.After being eliminated in the quarterfinals of last years playoffs, falling to North Shelby, the Tigers are back in the MSHSAA Show Me Bowl for the 13th time in the school's history.&nbsp; They're still seeking their first state championship since 2017.Head coach Jon Adwell says it gets the monkey off your back a little bit to get back in, after last year feeling like they got left out last year with the quarterfinal loss."Our kids that's always on their minds, they want to be that next group, and that's why they work so hard is they want to be that group and so we're excited to be able to get the opportunity to try to go up and do that," Adwell tells reporters after the game.&nbsp;Junior Bo Collins, who had four catches for 41 yards and a touchdown in the 2023 championship loss, says it means a lot for the team, and the community, to get another shot at a state championship."You know our last state championship that we won was 2017, and since then we've got there multiple times, and we've been close to getting there multiple times, and haven't got it done," Collins says.&nbsp; "So this is really important for our community, for our school, for our team, to be able to go out there and give it our best effort."After falling behind on a rushing touchdown by Jackson Kash in the first quarter, Worth County responded to start the second quarter and took the lead, first tying the game on a touchdown run from Jude Archer, before quarterback Hayden Sanders kept the ball himself and ran it in for the two point conversion, giving the Tigers an 8-6 lead.&nbsp;Worth County extended its lead on a play action pass from Sanders, finding tight end Caleb New for a long touchdown strike, and then on the two point conversion completing a pass to Collins, who made an impressive tip toe snag in the back of the endzone.&nbsp; Archie though cut into the lead, Kash finding the endzone again, this time on a pass from Tristan Leeper, and Leeper went on to keep it himself to convert the two point try, making it 16-14 at the halftime break.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764477221231.jpeg" alt="Cole Ruby (33) runs through the middle and is dragged down by the Archie defense/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Cole Ruby (33) runs through the middle and is dragged down by the Archie defense/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Out of the break, the Tigers took a move out of the Sean Payton playbook from the 2010 Super Bowl, attempting an onside kick, the Whirlwinds though recovered and quickly took their first lead since the first quarter as Leeper ran along the sideline for a touchdown, and then completed a two point pass to Josh Lough.&nbsp; Worth County tied up the game on the ensuing drive however, Sanders keeping it himself and diving across the goal line, leaving the game tied at 22 after the two point attempt was stopped.&nbsp;The tie held until the start of the fourth quarter, where Archie took the lead back on another touchdown run from Leeper, Worth County stopped the two point try though, keeping within a touchdown.&nbsp; Brayden Stevens got that touchdown, and Archer converted the two point try on a run, giving the Tigers a 30-28 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Whirlwinds were stopped on fourth down for a turnover on downs on the next drive, and Stevens extended the lead with his second touchdown of the game, the two point conversion attempt was dropped though in the endzone, leaving it a one possession game.&nbsp; Archie took advantage, Leeper scoring his third rushing touchdown, fourth overall, the Tigers prevented a tie though, swatting a two point conversion pass down at the line and leaving it 36-34 with 4:26 left in the game.&nbsp;Archie attempted an onside kick to get the ball back, Worth County though recovered, and then went to work chewing down the clock before having to punt with just over a minute left in the game.&nbsp; On third down, under pressure Leeper attempted to get the ball downfield and was picked off by Sanders, allowing the Tigers to kneel the ball on the final two plays and celebrate another trip to the championship.&nbsp;Now in the championship, it's a date with the Rock Port Blue Jays, a team that beat Worth County in the first week of this season in a hard tested battle 34-26.&nbsp; Adwell knows they will have their hands full again with players from the Blue Jays, such as Brock Holmes and&nbsp;Jack Meyerkorth."We've got to do a good job of being able to kind of bottle them up and slow them down, and stick to what we do, try to control the game by running the ball and that really pays off I think down the road," Adwell says.&nbsp;&nbsp;Collins says since the week one loss, they knew there was a good chance they could run into Rock Port again in the playoffs.&nbsp; Now with a chance at redemption for the only loss of the season for Worth County, Collins says they just have to be ready because they know the Blue Jays are a great team."They're going to give us everything they've got and we know that, so we've just got to go into the week preparing for that and just do what we've done all year," Collins says.&nbsp;Worth County and Rock Port will kick off at 7pm on Thursday at Spratt Memorial Stadium.&nbsp; We are scheduled to broadcast that game live on St. Joseph Post and Maryville Post, with pregame at 6pm.&nbsp; Stay tuned to our St. Joseph and Maryville Post Facebook pages and our websites for those.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764479917943.jpeg" alt="Worth County defends against Archie/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Worth County defends against Archie/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Worth County overcomes Archie to head back to state championship

Four touchdown passes was not enough to help the Kansas City Chiefs overcome a slew of defensive penalties, and the potent offense of the Dallas Cowboys, falling 31-28 in a Thanksgiving matchup at AT&amp;T Stadium.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chiefs got things started off on the right foot, after just three plays on the Cowboys first offensive drive of the game Jaylen Watson picked off Dak Prescott and off the turnover Kansas City needed two plays, a 10 yard pass to Hollywood Brown starting the drive before Patrick Mahomes found Rashee Rice, the receiver running down the sideline off a bubble screen, for a 27 yard touchdown pass to open the scoring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dallas answered the score with a long 12 play drive, efficiently moving their way down the field and exploiting the Kansas City secondary, particularly with the matchup between CeeDee Lamb and Trent McDuffie, before Prescott connected with Lamb for a 15 yard touchdown pass, with McDuffie falling down as Lamb turned around making the grab in the endzone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the game tied, the Chiefs answered with a 12 play drive of their own, eventually scoring with just one second remaining in the first quarter.&nbsp; A series of runs from Kareem Hunt and Mahomes helped moved Kansas City down into scoring position, where Travis Kelce caught a two yard touchdown strike from Mahomes to retake the lead for the Chiefs heading into the second quarter.

The second quarter was all Cowboys, Dallas first narrowing the Kansas City lead to four on a 49 yard field goal from Brandon Aubrey.&nbsp; After the Chiefs went three and out on the ensuing drive, the Cowboys ended an eight play drive taking their first lead of the game as Malik Davis broke a 43 yard rushing play for a touchdown, running through the middle and past two in the Kansas City secondary for the score.&nbsp;

An eight play drive for the Chiefs was halted after Mahomes was sacked by Dante Fowler on 3rd and 16, and Matt Araiza punted with 18 seconds remaining in the half.&nbsp; An eight yard run from Javonte Williams ran down the remaining time, and the Cowboys took a 17-14 lead into the halftime break.&nbsp;

Out of halftime, three consecutive punts opened the third quarter, before Dallas scored on the fourth drive, ending a seven play drive with a 36 yard field goal by Aubrey to extend the lead.&nbsp; An 11 play drive that carried into the fourth quarter answered the field goal for Kansas City, giving the Chiefs the lead back for the first time since the second quarter, Mahomes finding Rice again, this time on a three yard touchdown pass.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Again though, the Cowboys benefitted from poor pass defense, and defensive penalties on way to a score to take the lead back.&nbsp; McDuffie's struggles against Lamb continued, as he was again called for defensive pass interference, and George Pickens began to pick the secondary apart, Pickens helping set up the eventual two yard touchdown pass from Prescott to Williams.&nbsp; Dallas would go for two, to take the touchdown lead, and converted on a completion from Prescott to Pickens.

A Chiefs three and out gave the Cowboys the ball back again, and Aubrey extended the lead to two scores, knocking through a 26 yard field goal.&nbsp; Kansas City gave themselves a chance on their next drive, moving down the field on a seven play drive, where Mahomes found Brown in the back of the endzone, Brown making a tiptoe grab to score and bring the Chiefs within three points.&nbsp;

Needing to force a punt to have a chance, the Chiefs defense was unable to slow the Cowboys offense, getting Dallas to a 3rd and 2 where Prescott converted a 13 yard pass to Pickens for the first down, sealing the victory and allowing the Cowboys to kneel out the clock after the two minute warning.&nbsp;

Mahomes was 23 of 34 through the air for 261 yards with four touchdowns.&nbsp; Hunt rushed 14 times for 48 yards, while Mahomes added three carries for 30 yards.&nbsp; Rice had eight catches for 92 yards with two touchdowns.&nbsp; Xavier Worthy had four catches for 61 yards, while Kelce added five catches for 45 yards and a score.&nbsp; Kansas City is now 1-6 in one score games this season.&nbsp;

Kansas City was hit with a slew of injuries in the matchup as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chiefs lost two offensive linemen to injuries after beginning the game without right guard Trey Smith, who was inactive because of an ankle injury. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor injured an elbow, and rookie left tackle Josh Simmons went out with a wrist injury.&nbsp; Safety Bryan Cook injured an ankle in the first half.

Kansas City (6-6) now returns home, with a very slim margin of error as they hope to make the playoffs, hosting the Houston Texans on December 7th for Sunday Night Football.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 7:20pm with pregame at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7 FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764305218014.jpeg" alt="Rashee Rice scored on two of Patrick Mahomes's four touchdown passes, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving as the Kansas City Chiefs fell 31-28/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Rashee Rice scored on two of Patrick Mahomes's four touchdown passes, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving as the Kansas City Chiefs fell 31-28/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEFour touchdown passes was not enough to help the Kansas City Chiefs overcome a slew of defensive penalties, and the potent offense of the Dallas Cowboys, falling 31-28 in a Thanksgiving matchup at AT&amp;T Stadium.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chiefs got things started off on the right foot, after just three plays on the Cowboys first offensive drive of the game Jaylen Watson picked off Dak Prescott and off the turnover Kansas City needed two plays, a 10 yard pass to Hollywood Brown starting the drive before Patrick Mahomes found Rashee Rice, the receiver running down the sideline off a bubble screen, for a 27 yard touchdown pass to open the scoring.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RICE FOR THANKSGIVING? YES PLEASE. 🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚 <a href="https://t.co/cH27P73sx5">pic.twitter.com/cH27P73sx5</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1994160933938094335?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Dallas answered the score with a long 12 play drive, efficiently moving their way down the field and exploiting the Kansas City secondary, particularly with the matchup between CeeDee Lamb and Trent McDuffie, before Prescott connected with Lamb for a 15 yard touchdown pass, with McDuffie falling down as Lamb turned around making the grab in the endzone.&nbsp;&nbsp;With the game tied, the Chiefs answered with a 12 play drive of their own, eventually scoring with just one second remaining in the first quarter.&nbsp; A series of runs from Kareem Hunt and Mahomes helped moved Kansas City down into scoring position, where Travis Kelce caught a two yard touchdown strike from Mahomes to retake the lead for the Chiefs heading into the second quarter.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TRAVIS DOING TRAVIS THINGS 🏹 <a href="https://t.co/lBmkLjm4VY">pic.twitter.com/lBmkLjm4VY</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1994167521709047943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The second quarter was all Cowboys, Dallas first narrowing the Kansas City lead to four on a 49 yard field goal from Brandon Aubrey.&nbsp; After the Chiefs went three and out on the ensuing drive, the Cowboys ended an eight play drive taking their first lead of the game as Malik Davis broke a 43 yard rushing play for a touchdown, running through the middle and past two in the Kansas City secondary for the score.&nbsp;An eight play drive for the Chiefs was halted after Mahomes was sacked by Dante Fowler on 3rd and 16, and Matt Araiza punted with 18 seconds remaining in the half.&nbsp; An eight yard run from Javonte Williams ran down the remaining time, and the Cowboys took a 17-14 lead into the halftime break.&nbsp;Out of halftime, three consecutive punts opened the third quarter, before Dallas scored on the fourth drive, ending a seven play drive with a 36 yard field goal by Aubrey to extend the lead.&nbsp; An 11 play drive that carried into the fourth quarter answered the field goal for Kansas City, giving the Chiefs the lead back for the first time since the second quarter, Mahomes finding Rice again, this time on a three yard touchdown pass.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RASHEE BACK FOR SECONDS 🍽️<a href="https://twitter.com/RiceRashee11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RiceRashee11</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProBowlVote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProBowlVote</a> <a href="https://t.co/tx51yby85F">pic.twitter.com/tx51yby85F</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1994196959100383318?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Again though, the Cowboys benefitted from poor pass defense, and defensive penalties on way to a score to take the lead back.&nbsp; McDuffie's struggles against Lamb continued, as he was again called for defensive pass interference, and George Pickens began to pick the secondary apart, Pickens helping set up the eventual two yard touchdown pass from Prescott to Williams.&nbsp; Dallas would go for two, to take the touchdown lead, and converted on a completion from Prescott to Pickens.A Chiefs three and out gave the Cowboys the ball back again, and Aubrey extended the lead to two scores, knocking through a 26 yard field goal.&nbsp; Kansas City gave themselves a chance on their next drive, moving down the field on a seven play drive, where Mahomes found Brown in the back of the endzone, Brown making a tiptoe grab to score and bring the Chiefs within three points.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ONE-SCORE GAME.<a href="https://twitter.com/Primetime_jet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Primetime_jet</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProBowlVote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProBowlVote</a> <a href="https://t.co/dO2XrTr9P2">pic.twitter.com/dO2XrTr9P2</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1994206474558398651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Needing to force a punt to have a chance, the Chiefs defense was unable to slow the Cowboys offense, getting Dallas to a 3rd and 2 where Prescott converted a 13 yard pass to Pickens for the first down, sealing the victory and allowing the Cowboys to kneel out the clock after the two minute warning.&nbsp;Mahomes was 23 of 34 through the air for 261 yards with four touchdowns.&nbsp; Hunt rushed 14 times for 48 yards, while Mahomes added three carries for 30 yards.&nbsp; Rice had eight catches for 92 yards with two touchdowns.&nbsp; Xavier Worthy had four catches for 61 yards, while Kelce added five catches for 45 yards and a score.&nbsp; Kansas City is now 1-6 in one score games this season.&nbsp;Kansas City was hit with a slew of injuries in the matchup as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chiefs lost two offensive linemen to injuries after beginning the game without right guard Trey Smith, who was inactive because of an ankle injury. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor injured an elbow, and rookie left tackle Josh Simmons went out with a wrist injury.&nbsp; Safety Bryan Cook injured an ankle in the first half.Kansas City (6-6) now returns home, with a very slim margin of error as they hope to make the playoffs, hosting the Houston Texans on December 7th for Sunday Night Football.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 7:20pm with pregame at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs playoff chances slim after 31-28 loss to Cowboys on Thanksgiving

Missouri has agreed to a new six-year contract with coach Eliah Drinkwitz, keeping the head coach that helped turn around the football program at the university for the foreseeable future. 

Drinkwitz signed for an average annual compensation of $10.75 million, the school announced Thursday.&nbsp; The move is an aggressive one by Missouri to keep Drinkwitz near the top of the country's highest-paid coaches, as his base salary will increase to $10.25 million in 2026, which is up from $9 million in 2025.

Drinkwitz received interest from several of the top jobs on the carousel, and the move by the school to agree to a new deal with him is reflective of the trend seen at places like Indiana, SMU and Nebraska in an effort to keep their coaches.

Drinkwitz led Missouri to back-to-back double-digit win seasons in 2023 and 2024, and the program has qualified for its sixth straight bowl game. The Tigers rose to as high as #8 in the Associated Press poll in 2023 and #6 in 2024. This year, Missouri climbed to #14.

During his tenure, Missouri has wins over Ohio State, Iowa, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida and LSU. He is 45-28 in six seasons.&nbsp; This season, Missouri is 7-4, with all four losses coming to teams ranked in the Top 10 at the time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764308868893.jpeg" alt="Missouri head football coach Eliah Drinkwitz has been extended by the university, signing a new six year contract/ Courtesy photo from X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri head football coach Eliah Drinkwitz has been extended by the university, signing a new six year contract/ Courtesy photo from X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEMissouri has agreed to a new six-year contract with coach Eliah Drinkwitz, keeping the head coach that helped turn around the football program at the university for the foreseeable future. Drinkwitz signed for an average annual compensation of $10.75 million, the school announced Thursday.&nbsp; The move is an aggressive one by Missouri to keep Drinkwitz near the top of the country's highest-paid coaches, as his base salary will increase to $10.25 million in 2026, which is up from $9 million in 2025.Drinkwitz received interest from several of the top jobs on the carousel, and the move by the school to agree to a new deal with him is reflective of the trend seen at places like Indiana, SMU and Nebraska in an effort to keep their coaches.Drinkwitz led Missouri to back-to-back double-digit win seasons in 2023 and 2024, and the program has qualified for its sixth straight bowl game. The Tigers rose to as high as #8 in the Associated Press poll in 2023 and #6 in 2024. This year, Missouri climbed to #14.During his tenure, Missouri has wins over Ohio State, Iowa, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida and LSU. He is 45-28 in six seasons.&nbsp; This season, Missouri is 7-4, with all four losses coming to teams ranked in the Top 10 at the time.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Missouri extends head football coach Eliah Drinkwitz to new six year contract

After an outstanding performance in the Kansas City Chiefs 23-20 comeback overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts, running back Kareem Hunt has been named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week.

Hunt carried the ball a career high 30 times in the win for 104 yards, scoring the touchdown that helped get the Chiefs within three points to tie the game and force overtime.&nbsp;&nbsp;This marks his second time winning the award, and the first time since Week 9 of the 2018 season for Hunt.

Pro Football Focus credited Hunt with seven forced missed tackles and 81 yards after contact in Sunday's game as the veteran tailback churned his legs for a season-high 10 rushing first downs. Only Colts' running back Jonathan Taylor, who rushed for 11 first downs in Week 10, recorded a higher total in a single game this season.

Hunt currently leads the Chiefs in total touches (129), rushing yards (457) and scrimmage touchdowns (8) heading into Week 13, and now with a critical showdown against the Dallas Cowboys up next, Hunt and the rest of the Chiefs' offense will look to keep things rolling on Thanksgiving.

By MATT PIKEAfter an outstanding performance in the Kansas City Chiefs 23-20 comeback overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts, running back Kareem Hunt has been named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week.Hunt carried the ball a career high 30 times in the win for 104 yards, scoring the touchdown that helped get the Chiefs within three points to tie the game and force overtime.&nbsp;&nbsp;This marks his second time winning the award, and the first time since Week 9 of the 2018 season for Hunt.Pro Football Focus credited Hunt with seven forced missed tackles and 81 yards after contact in Sunday's game as the veteran tailback churned his legs for a season-high 10 rushing first downs. Only Colts' running back Jonathan Taylor, who rushed for 11 first downs in Week 10, recorded a higher total in a single game this season.Hunt currently leads the Chiefs in total touches (129), rushing yards (457) and scrimmage touchdowns (8) heading into Week 13, and now with a critical showdown against the Dallas Cowboys up next, Hunt and the rest of the Chiefs' offense will look to keep things rolling on Thanksgiving.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Kareem Hunt earns AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors

In a move to start a rebuild, and build the team around its young pieces, the St. Louis Cardinals have reportedly traded the ace of the 2025 starting rotation, moving Sonny Gray.&nbsp;

The Cardinals are reportedly trading the right-hander to the Boston Red Sox, a source told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand today. The clubs have not confirmed the move.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Red Sox will also receive cash in the deal.

Gray is set to make $35 million in the final year of his three-year contract, which includes a $30 million club option for 2027. He also has a no-trade clause, reports say he has waived his no trade clause to allow the move for him to leave.

Gray, a 13-year MLB veteran, is a three-time All-Star and at his best finished as the runner-up to Gerrit Cole for the AL Cy Young Award in 2023, when he was a member of the Minnesota Twins. He became a free agent after that season and signed the deal with the Cardinals.&nbsp; Last year with the Cardinals, Gray finished 14-8 with a 4.28 ERA and 201 strikeouts.&nbsp; In his two seasons with St. Louis he started 60 games and had a 27-17 record with a 4.07 ERA and 404 strikeouts in 347 innings pitched.

For his career, the right-hander has a 3.58 ERA with 1,925 strikeouts over 330 starts. The Red Sox add a seasoned veteran arm to their rotation, which is headlined by southpaw Garrett Crochet.

In return, the Cardinals get a couple pitchers from the Red Sox in left-hander Brandon Clarke, Boston's #5 prospect, and right-hander Richard Fitts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The headliner of the deal for the Cardinals will be the 22-year-old Clarke, who was a fifth-round Draft pick by the Red Sox in 2024.&nbsp;In his first professional season in 2025, the lefty made 14 starts at Single-A and High-A and posted a 4.03 ERA and 60 strikeouts in 38 innings.

Fitts made his major league debut in 2024 and has pitched 15 games, 14 of those starts, in the big leagues over the past two seasons. The 25-year-old righty has a 3.97 ERA in those outings with 49 strikeouts in 65 2/3 innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764089942896.jpeg" alt="The St. Louis Cardinals have traded the ace of their 2025 rotation to the Boston Red Sox, moving Sonny Gray who waived his no trade clause to leave/ Courtesy photo from X" />
 <figcaption>The St. Louis Cardinals have traded the ace of their 2025 rotation to the Boston Red Sox, moving Sonny Gray who waived his no trade clause to leave/ Courtesy photo from X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEIn a move to start a rebuild, and build the team around its young pieces, the St. Louis Cardinals have reportedly traded the ace of the 2025 starting rotation, moving Sonny Gray.&nbsp;The Cardinals are reportedly trading the right-hander to the Boston Red Sox, a source told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand today. The clubs have not confirmed the move.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Red Sox will also receive cash in the deal.Gray is set to make $35 million in the final year of his three-year contract, which includes a $30 million club option for 2027. He also has a no-trade clause, reports say he has waived his no trade clause to allow the move for him to leave.Gray, a 13-year MLB veteran, is a three-time All-Star and at his best finished as the runner-up to Gerrit Cole for the AL Cy Young Award in 2023, when he was a member of the Minnesota Twins. He became a free agent after that season and signed the deal with the Cardinals.&nbsp; Last year with the Cardinals, Gray finished 14-8 with a 4.28 ERA and 201 strikeouts.&nbsp; In his two seasons with St. Louis he started 60 games and had a 27-17 record with a 4.07 ERA and 404 strikeouts in 347 innings pitched.For his career, the right-hander has a 3.58 ERA with 1,925 strikeouts over 330 starts. The Red Sox add a seasoned veteran arm to their rotation, which is headlined by southpaw Garrett Crochet.In return, the Cardinals get a couple pitchers from the Red Sox in left-hander Brandon Clarke, Boston's #5 prospect, and right-hander Richard Fitts.&nbsp;&nbsp;The headliner of the deal for the Cardinals will be the 22-year-old Clarke, who was a fifth-round Draft pick by the Red Sox in 2024.&nbsp;In his first professional season in 2025, the lefty made 14 starts at Single-A and High-A and posted a 4.03 ERA and 60 strikeouts in 38 innings.Fitts made his major league debut in 2024 and has pitched 15 games, 14 of those starts, in the big leagues over the past two seasons. The 25-year-old righty has a 3.97 ERA in those outings with 49 strikeouts in 65 2/3 innings.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Cardinals start rebuild trading RHP Sonny Gray to Red Sox

In 2023, Venezuela came a Trea Turner grand slam away from reaching the semifinals in the World Baseball Classic. 

They can thank their catcher, Royals veteran Salvador Perez for that. Perez slashed .429/.467/.929 with a home run, four doubles, and six RBIs, five of which came in a 9-6 victory against Puerto Rico, en route to being named to the All-WBC team at the end of the tournament.

Now, Perez will be the face of the team, as he was named the captain ahead of the World Baseball Classic in 2026.

This will be the fourth Classic for Perez, who has played in every tournament since 2013 when he was just 23 years old and had yet to be elected to the first of nine Major League All-Stars Games. He's appeared in eight career WBC games and in that time has slashed .346/.393/.808 with two home runs and eight RBIs.

While Perez may be the captain, there is no shortage of great Venezuelan catchers at manager Omar Lopez's disposal to back him up: William and Willson Contreras, the latter of which moved to first base this past season for the St. Louis Cardinals, Gabriel Moreno, and Francisco Alvarez are just a few of the backstops who could potentially suit up for the nation in March.

Venezuela will begin its World Baseball Classic tournament in Miami on March 6 against the Netherlands.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764006067960.jpeg" alt="Royals catcher and captain Salvador Perez will also be the captain for Team Venezuela during the 2026 World Baseball Classic/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Royals catcher and captain Salvador Perez will also be the captain for Team Venezuela during the 2026 World Baseball Classic/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEIn 2023, Venezuela came a Trea Turner grand slam away from reaching the semifinals in the World Baseball Classic. They can thank their catcher, Royals veteran Salvador Perez for that. Perez slashed .429/.467/.929 with a home run, four doubles, and six RBIs, five of which came in a 9-6 victory against Puerto Rico, en route to being named to the All-WBC team at the end of the tournament.Now, Perez will be the face of the team, as he was named the captain ahead of the World Baseball Classic in 2026.This will be the fourth Classic for Perez, who has played in every tournament since 2013 when he was just 23 years old and had yet to be elected to the first of nine Major League All-Stars Games. He's appeared in eight career WBC games and in that time has slashed .346/.393/.808 with two home runs and eight RBIs.While Perez may be the captain, there is no shortage of great Venezuelan catchers at manager Omar Lopez's disposal to back him up: William and Willson Contreras, the latter of which moved to first base this past season for the St. Louis Cardinals, Gabriel Moreno, and Francisco Alvarez are just a few of the backstops who could potentially suit up for the nation in March.Venezuela will begin its World Baseball Classic tournament in Miami on March 6 against the Netherlands.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals Salvador Perez named captain for Venezuela in upcoming WBC

The Kansas City Chiefs looked much like they have all season for the first three quarters against the Indianapolis Colts.&nbsp; Their offense was stuck in a rut, penalties were piling up, and the reigning AFC champions' postseason hopes were growing ever dimmer.

But, In the fourth quarter and overtime, Patrick Mahomes and company finally resembled their old selves.&nbsp; The two-time MVP threw for a season-high 352 yards while rallying the Chiefs from an 11-point deficit, their defense forced Indianapolis to go three-and-out on its final four possessions, and Harrison Butker banged through his fifth field goal of the game from 27 yards to give Kansas City a 23-20 victory that just might have kept its playoff hopes alive.

Now, the Chiefs&nbsp; have some life heading into a short week. They visit Dallas on Thanksgiving Day.&nbsp; Meanwhile, the Colts limped home having blown a 20-9 fourth-quarter lead thanks in part to questionable play-calling and even worse execution. They went almost entirely away from running back Jonathan Taylor down the stretch, putting the game instead in the hands of Daniel Jones, and his inability to pick up even one first down in the fourth quarter and overtime proved costly.

Jones wound up with a season-low 181 yards passing and two touchdowns. He was 8 of 18 for 83 yards in the second half.&nbsp; Taylor, meanwhile, only carried 16 times for 58 yards in his first game since a record-setting performance against the Falcons, when the Colts star ran for 244 yards, piled up 286 from scrimmage and reached the end zone three times in an overtime win.

The Chiefs have struggled all season with turnovers at inopportune times, and another set the tone for the first half. Mahomes had a pass from his four yard line batted by Laiatu Latu, who brought it in himself for the defensive end's third pick of the season.&nbsp; Two players later, Jones hit Michael Pittman to give Indianapolis a 7-0 lead.

The Chiefs answered with the first of two grinding, eight-plus minute first-half drives, but each netted just a field goal, the first coming off the leg of Butker from 28 yards away. And when the Colts moved briskly downfield again, and Jones found Drew Ogletree in the back of the end zone to extend the lead.&nbsp; Butker hit field goals from 48 and 22 yards to put Kansas City down 14-9 at the halftime break.

The Colts were still clinging to a 20-9 lead after Michael Badgley hit field goals from 32 yards and 23 yards, as the game headed to the fourth quarter, where the tone would shift to the Chiefs advantage.

As he's done so many times Mahomes led another comeback. He marched the Chiefs 56 yards to set up Kareem Hunt's touchdown dive from two yards out, then Mahomes found Rashee Rice for a two point conversion to close within a field goal with 8:37 left to go in the game.&nbsp; The Chiefs defense proceeded to step up, forcing a series of three-and-outs by the prolific Indianapolis offense.

Kansas City took over after the second one with 4:43 left at its six yard line. Mahomes hit Rice for 47 yards, then he found him again on 4th-and-3 near midfield for a 19-yard gain. Hunt's dive on 3rd-and-1 to give the Chiefs first down at the Colts two yard line with a minute to go, but he was stuffed on the next play, Mahomes threw incomplete on the next, and he was sacked on third down.&nbsp; Butker knocked through his fourth field goal, a 25-yard chip-shot as time expired, to send the game to overtime.

After the Colts were again forced three and out to start the overtime period, Kansas City drove down the field, and the Chiefs would give Butker another chance, this time to win the game on a 22 yard field goal, improving the Chiefs record in one score games this season to 1-5.

Nearly everybody had a hand in it, too. Hunt ran 30 times for 104 yards and a score. Rice caught eight passes for 141 yards. And their defense held the league's #1 offense to just 255 yards, easily the Colts' worst output all season.

Up next, the Chiefs (6-5) visit the Cowboys on Thursday.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 3:30pm with pregame airing at 2 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763956779554.jpeg" alt="Harrison Butker knocked through a 27 yard field goal in overtime to give the Kansas Chiefs their first one possession victor of the season on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts/ Photo courtesy of Kansas City Chiefs on X" />
 <figcaption>Harrison Butker knocked through a 27 yard field goal in overtime to give the Kansas Chiefs their first one possession victor of the season on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts/ Photo courtesy of Kansas City Chiefs on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Chiefs looked much like they have all season for the first three quarters against the Indianapolis Colts.&nbsp; Their offense was stuck in a rut, penalties were piling up, and the reigning AFC champions' postseason hopes were growing ever dimmer.But, In the fourth quarter and overtime, Patrick Mahomes and company finally resembled their old selves.&nbsp; The two-time MVP threw for a season-high 352 yards while rallying the Chiefs from an 11-point deficit, their defense forced Indianapolis to go three-and-out on its final four possessions, and Harrison Butker banged through his fifth field goal of the game from 27 yards to give Kansas City a 23-20 victory that just might have kept its playoff hopes alive.Now, the Chiefs&nbsp; have some life heading into a short week. They visit Dallas on Thanksgiving Day.&nbsp; Meanwhile, the Colts limped home having blown a 20-9 fourth-quarter lead thanks in part to questionable play-calling and even worse execution. They went almost entirely away from running back Jonathan Taylor down the stretch, putting the game instead in the hands of Daniel Jones, and his inability to pick up even one first down in the fourth quarter and overtime proved costly.Jones wound up with a season-low 181 yards passing and two touchdowns. He was 8 of 18 for 83 yards in the second half.&nbsp; Taylor, meanwhile, only carried 16 times for 58 yards in his first game since a record-setting performance against the Falcons, when the Colts star ran for 244 yards, piled up 286 from scrimmage and reached the end zone three times in an overtime win.The Chiefs have struggled all season with turnovers at inopportune times, and another set the tone for the first half. Mahomes had a pass from his four yard line batted by Laiatu Latu, who brought it in himself for the defensive end's third pick of the season.&nbsp; Two players later, Jones hit Michael Pittman to give Indianapolis a 7-0 lead.The Chiefs answered with the first of two grinding, eight-plus minute first-half drives, but each netted just a field goal, the first coming off the leg of Butker from 28 yards away. And when the Colts moved briskly downfield again, and Jones found Drew Ogletree in the back of the end zone to extend the lead.&nbsp; Butker hit field goals from 48 and 22 yards to put Kansas City down 14-9 at the halftime break.The Colts were still clinging to a 20-9 lead after Michael Badgley hit field goals from 32 yards and 23 yards, as the game headed to the fourth quarter, where the tone would shift to the Chiefs advantage.As he's done so many times Mahomes led another comeback. He marched the Chiefs 56 yards to set up Kareem Hunt's touchdown dive from two yards out, then Mahomes found Rashee Rice for a two point conversion to close within a field goal with 8:37 left to go in the game.&nbsp; The Chiefs defense proceeded to step up, forcing a series of three-and-outs by the prolific Indianapolis offense.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">AIR KAREEM‼️ <a href="https://t.co/XS0Oeoezxf">pic.twitter.com/XS0Oeoezxf</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1992694304066912511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas City took over after the second one with 4:43 left at its six yard line. Mahomes hit Rice for 47 yards, then he found him again on 4th-and-3 near midfield for a 19-yard gain. Hunt's dive on 3rd-and-1 to give the Chiefs first down at the Colts two yard line with a minute to go, but he was stuffed on the next play, Mahomes threw incomplete on the next, and he was sacked on third down.&nbsp; Butker knocked through his fourth field goal, a 25-yard chip-shot as time expired, to send the game to overtime.After the Colts were again forced three and out to start the overtime period, Kansas City drove down the field, and the Chiefs would give Butker another chance, this time to win the game on a 22 yard field goal, improving the Chiefs record in one score games this season to 1-5.Nearly everybody had a hand in it, too. Hunt ran 30 times for 104 yards and a score. Rice caught eight passes for 141 yards. And their defense held the league's #1 offense to just 255 yards, easily the Colts' worst output all season.Up next, the Chiefs (6-5) visit the Cowboys on Thursday.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 3:30pm with pregame airing at 2 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs pull out overtime win against Colts to stay alive in playoff hunt

Northwest knocked from playoffs as Harding runs all over Bearcats

The #2 Harding University Bisons ended the 2025 football season for the #14 Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats in the first round of the NCAA Div. II Playoffs with a 38-16 win.

Northwest Missouri State began the game with possession after receiving the opening kickoff. Quincy Torry started the drive with a four yard rush, but the drive stalled after two incomplete passes by Chris Ruhnke. Tommy Warner punted 36 yards, and the Bisons took over on their 35-yard line.&nbsp; 

Harding capitalized on their first possession, moving 65 yards downfield and concluding the drive with a seven yard touchdown run by Braden Jay, followed by a successful extra point. Northwest Missouri State's subsequent drive showed promise with Ruhnke gaining 20 yards on a rush to Harding's 46-yard line. However, the momentum shifted as Ruhnke's pass was intercepted by Jordan Mays, who returned it 12 yards to the Bisons' 46-yard line.

Harding extended their lead with a 25-yard field goal by Magnus Lepak after a series of runs moved them into scoring position.&nbsp;The second quarter began with the Bisons extending their lead, capitalizing on a series of rushing plays from Andrew Miller and Jay, culminating in a touchdown drive, a 10 yard run from Jay that pushed the score to 17-0. The Bearcats though quickly responded with a standout 75-yard touchdown run by Quincy Torry to narrow the gap.

The Bisons regained control with another rushing touchdown, another 10 yard run this time from Christian Franklin, to extend the lead even more,o 24-7. Northwest Missouri State mounted a late-quarter drive, with Ruhnke connecting on several key passes to advance downfield. The drive concluded with a 19-yard field goal by Alwaely as time expired in the quarter, sending the teams to the locker room with Harding leading 24-10 at the halftime break.

The third quarter began with the Bearcats kicking off to Harding, who quickly moved down the field. Benjamin Einess and Carter Edwards made key tackles, but Harding completed a scoring drive with a touchdown, Franklin again scoring a rushing touchdown this time from seven yards out, increasing their lead to 31-10.&nbsp;

&nbsp;A significant turnover for Northwest Missouri State opened the fourth quarter, as Shane Fredrickson forced a fumble from Harding's Andrew Miller, which was recovered by O'Shea Davis at the Northwest 20-yard line. This defensive play set the stage for a promising offensive drive, beginning with a 12-yard rush by Madixx Morris. Northwest continued to move the chains, highlighted by a 19-yard rush from Te'Shaun Porter, but the drive ultimately stalled following a sack.

The Bisons capitalized on the turnover on downs by executing a series of successful rushes, culminating in a 23-yard touchdown run by Miller, extending their lead to 38-10. The Bearcats responded with a burst of offensive energy, as Porter broke free for a 66-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 38-16. This was Porter's longest rush of the season. Despite the effort, the subsequent onside kick was unsuccessful, allowing Harding to maintain possession and run down the clock, securing the victory.&nbsp; Harding's 38 points were the most given up by a Bearcat team in the playoffs since Ferris State scored 41 in 2021.&nbsp; 

Porter rushed for 106 yards on five carries, including one touchdown. Torry contributed significantly with 116 rushing yards on eight attempts, adding a touchdown to his performance.&nbsp; Ruhnke was 7 of 15 through the air for 75 yards with an interception.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trevor Spady had one catch for 20 yards to be the leading receiver, while Porter added two catches for 19 yards.

Harding moved to 12-0 and Northwest finished at 9-3.

Pribula returns, but Mizzou's losing streak in Norman moves to 19 games

The Oklahoma Sooners took a critical step in their quest to reach the College Football Playoff as&nbsp;John Mateer threw two touchdown passes, and the #8 Oklahoma defeated #23 Missouri 17-6, knocking the Tigers losing streak to Oklahoma in Norman to 19 games.

The Sooners, coming off road wins over Tennessee and Alabama, claimed their third straight victory over a ranked opponent and their fifth over a team that was ranked when they played. The Sooners likely will make the playoff field with a win at home against LSU on Saturday.

Oklahoma gained just 276 total yards. It wasn't flashy, but the Sooners got what they needed,

Missouri took a 3-0 lead on a 39 yard field goal by Robert Meyer and tried to extend the advantage to six before Oklahoma's Peyton Bowen blocked Meyer's 35-yard field-goal attempt. On the second play after the Sooners gained possession, Isaiah Sategna turned a short catch from Mateer into an 87-yard touchdown that put the Sooners up 7-3.

Mateer connected with Javonnie Gibson for an eight yard score that extended the Sooners lead, and with 17 seconds remaining in the half Oliver Robbins knocked through a 21 yard field goal for the Tigers, and Oklahoma's lead was 14-6 at the halftime break.

In the third quarter, Sooners kicker Tate Sandell hit a 45 yard field goal for the final points of the game.&nbsp; With Oklahoma up 17-6 in the third quarter, Sooner defensive back Reggie Powers III was ejected for targeting on what would have been a critical third-down stop. His teammate, Jacobe Johnson, intercepted Pribula on the next play to maintain Oklahoma's momentum.

Oklahoma held the Tigers to 301 yards and shut them out in the second half.&nbsp;Missouri’s Ahmad Hardy, who led FBS with 134.6 yards rushing per game and ran for 300 yards and three touchdowns against Mississippi State last week, finished with 57 yards on 17 carries.&nbsp;Beau Pribula, who dislocated his left ankle last month against Vanderbilt and missed three games, returned on Saturday. He went 20 for 36 passing for 231 yards with two interceptions.&nbsp; Kevin Coleman Jr. caught seven passes for 115 yards for the Tigers.

Up next, Missouri (7-4, 3-4 SEC) closes out the regular season at Arkansas on Saturday.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 2:30pm with pregame at 1:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

Jackson's historic day spoiled as Wildcats fall to #12 Utah in road finale

Devon Dampier threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more, including a go-ahead one yard score with 56 seconds left, and #12 Utah rallied from a 12-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter for a wild 51-47 victory over Kansas State.

The game turned on an unusual play. After the Wildcats took a 47-35 lead on Joe Jackson’s third rushing touchdown of the game, Kansas State went for two, but Utah’s Tao Johnson intercepted a tipped ball and returned it to the Kansas State end zone for two points to make it 47-37.&nbsp; Dampier’s 20-yard touchdown toss to Larry Simmons got Utah within three with 2:47 left. After the Utes forced a punt, Dampier led the winning drive, setting up his go-ahead score with a 59-yard run to the one on fourth down.

Lander Barton intercepted Avery Johnson's pass with 49 seconds remaining to seal it for Utah, which kept alive its hopes for a league title and a College Football Playoff berth.

The teams went into the second quarter tied 7-7 after exchanging rushing touchdowns in the first quarter, Antonio Martin Jr rushing for a 37 yard touchdown for the Wildcats and Byrd Ficklin going in from 10 yards out for the Utes.&nbsp; Kansas State's offense exploded before halftime for 24 points, first getting a six yard rushing score from Avery Johnson to retake the lead.&nbsp;

Ficklin scored his second touchdown of the game from six yards out to tie the game up again, but Jackson soon broke up the tie with his first touchdown of the game, breaking a 66 yard touchdown run.&nbsp; The Utes continued trading blows with the Wildcats, scoring their final touchdown of the half to tie up the game one more time, Dampier rushing for an eight yard score.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas State broke the tie with a 22 yard field goal by Luis Rodriguez.&nbsp; Late in the first half, with 1:17 until the halftime break, Jackson broke another long run for a touchdown to extend the Wildcats lead, running 80 yards to the house for a score, and sending Kansas State to the halftime break with a 31-21 lead.

Out of the halftime break Utah began their rally back on the Wildcats,&nbsp; Dampier found Dallen Bentley for a 38-yard touchdown reception and Ficklin ran for his third score to put Utah up 35-31 early in the third quarter. But Johnson threw to Garrett Oakley for a two yard touchdown on fourth down and Rodriguez added a 36-yard field goal to put the Wildcats back ahead 41-35 with 8:51 to play.

Jackson rushed for a school-record 293 yards for Kansas State, topping Darren Sproles' mark of 292 yards set in 2004. The Wildcats finished with a program-record 472 yards rushing, the most by a Division I team in a loss since Army ran for 534 in a 52-49 loss to North Texas on Nov. 18, 2017.&nbsp; Johnson was 12 for 23 through the air for 102 yards with one touchdown and one interception, adding 12 rushes for 72 yards and a score.&nbsp; Jaron Tibbs had six catches for 45 yards.

Up next, Kansas State (5-6, 4-4 Big 12) hosts Colorado on Saturday in the regular season finale.&nbsp; The kickoff time is TBD

Kansas offense struggles on road as Iowa State snaps losing skid

Rocco Becht threw for 241 yards and three touchdowns, with two scores and 73 yards going to Brett Eskildsen, and Iowa State defeated Kansas 38-14 in the Jayhawks regular season road finale.

The Cyclones earned their first win against the Jayhawks since 2021 and came away with their first home victory since Sept. 27 against Arizona.

Carsen Hansen rushed for 99 of his 120 yards in the first half, including a four yard score to put Iowa State ahead 14-0 early in the second quarter.&nbsp; That score from Hansen came after Becht threw a nine yard touchdown pass to Eskildsen on the first offensive drive of the game. Kyle Konrardy added the second-longest field goal of his career from 55-yards out to extend the lead 17-0, which is where the score stood as the two teams went to the halftime break.

The Jayhawks and Cyclones combined for four straight touchdown drives in the third quarter, with Iowa State leading 31-14 entering the fourth.&nbsp; Leshon Williams opened the second half scoring for Kansas with a four yard touchdown run, but Iowa State extended their lead with Becht connecting again with Eskildsen for a 20 yard touchdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Backup quarterback Cole Ballard added to the scoring for the Jayhawks, with the only other touchdown, cutting into the Cyclones lead for the moment with a 21 yard touchdown pass to Boden Groen.&nbsp; Iowa State's final score of the quarter was Becht's third touchdown pass, connecting with Benjamin Brahmer on a 12 yard touchdown pass to send the game to the final quarter.

Aiden Flora capped the scoring with 1:07 left in the fourth with his first rushing touchdown of the season for the Cyclones, running the ball in from 38 yards out.

Jalon Daniels was 13-of-23 passing for 154 yards and an interception for Kansas.&nbsp; Groen had five catches for 76 yards.&nbsp; Daniel Hishaw Jr had eight runs for 50 yards, while Williams added four rushes for 42 yards and a touchdown.&nbsp; Ballard in relief of Daniels was 3 for 6 for 37 yards and the touchdown.&nbsp;

Kansas (5-6, 3-5 Big 12) returns home for a game against Utah on Saturday to wrap up the regular season.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 11am and the game will air on ESPN.

Nebraska falters as Huskers pounded by Nittany Lions in road finale

 Kaytron Allen ran for 160 yards and two touchdowns, and Penn State’s defense played its best game of the season to keep the Nittany Lions’ bowl hopes alive with a 37-10 win over Nebraska.&nbsp; Allen, who racked up 181 yards rushing in last week’s win against Michigan State, became Penn State’s career rushing leader with 3,954 yards, passing Evan Royster’s 3,932 set in 2010.

The senior back plowed through and zipped around the Huskers all night. Allen passed Saquon Barkley on the school’s career rushing list in the first half before eclipsing Royster with a three yard run in the fourth quarter.&nbsp; By then the Nittany Lions&nbsp; had put the game out of reach, scoring on five-straight possessions while their defense stymied the Cornhuskers.

Allen ripped off a 50-yard run around Nebraska’s left flank on the Nittany Lion’s opening drive to help setup a short touchdown toss from Ethan Grunkemeyer to tight end Andrew Rappleyea.&nbsp; Ryan Barker booted a 26-yard field goal, then Nicholas Singleton capped Penn State’s next two drives with four and 10-yard rushing touchdowns to make it 23-3 at the&nbsp; halftime break, the Huskers getting just a 31 yard field goal from Kyle Cunanan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska mustered just 140 yards in the first half, turned the ball over on downs twice and punted twice more. Penn State forced three more turnovers on downs in the second half.

Allen added a three yard touchdown run to open the second half scoring.&nbsp; The Cornhuskers didn’t find the end zone until quarterback TJ Lateef scrambled 11 yards through a broken play to cut Penn State’s lead to 30-10 with 0:55 left in the third.&nbsp; Allen then scored a 13-yard rushing touchdown early in the fourth, which prompted bundled-up Penn State fans to chant “Terry, Terry, Terry!” as Smith, who played for Joe Paterno. wiped tears from his eyes on the sideline.&nbsp; As the final seconds ticked off the clock, Penn State players pulled out signs that read “Hire Terry Smith”.

Emmett Johnson had 19 carries for 103 yards and eight catches for 48 for yards for the Cornhuskers , who have lost three of their last five.&nbsp; Lateef was 21 of 37 through the air for 187 yards and added 15 rushing yards on 10 carries with a score.&nbsp; Jacory Barney Jr led the receivers with five catches for 55 yards.

Up next, Nebraska (7-4, 4-4 Big Ten) hosts Iowa on Friday in the regular season finale.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 11am and the game will air on CBS.

By MATT PIKENorthwest knocked from playoffs as Harding runs all over Bearcats<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763873102075.jpeg" alt="Shane Fredrickson (32) makes a tackle against Harding.&nbsp; Northwest fell to Harding 38-16, ending their playoff run in the first round/ Photo courtesy of Aaron Hare-Northwest Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Shane Fredrickson (32) makes a tackle against Harding.&nbsp; Northwest fell to Harding 38-16, ending their playoff run in the first round/ Photo courtesy of Aaron Hare-Northwest Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The #2 Harding University Bisons ended the 2025 football season for the #14 Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats in the first round of the NCAA Div. II Playoffs with a 38-16 win.Northwest Missouri State began the game with possession after receiving the opening kickoff. Quincy Torry started the drive with a four yard rush, but the drive stalled after two incomplete passes by Chris Ruhnke. Tommy Warner punted 36 yards, and the Bisons took over on their 35-yard line.&nbsp; Harding capitalized on their first possession, moving 65 yards downfield and concluding the drive with a seven yard touchdown run by Braden Jay, followed by a successful extra point. Northwest Missouri State's subsequent drive showed promise with Ruhnke gaining 20 yards on a rush to Harding's 46-yard line. However, the momentum shifted as Ruhnke's pass was intercepted by Jordan Mays, who returned it 12 yards to the Bisons' 46-yard line.Harding extended their lead with a 25-yard field goal by Magnus Lepak after a series of runs moved them into scoring position.&nbsp;The second quarter began with the Bisons extending their lead, capitalizing on a series of rushing plays from Andrew Miller and Jay, culminating in a touchdown drive, a 10 yard run from Jay that pushed the score to 17-0. The Bearcats though quickly responded with a standout 75-yard touchdown run by Quincy Torry to narrow the gap.The Bisons regained control with another rushing touchdown, another 10 yard run this time from Christian Franklin, to extend the lead even more,o 24-7. Northwest Missouri State mounted a late-quarter drive, with Ruhnke connecting on several key passes to advance downfield. The drive concluded with a 19-yard field goal by Alwaely as time expired in the quarter, sending the teams to the locker room with Harding leading 24-10 at the halftime break.The third quarter began with the Bearcats kicking off to Harding, who quickly moved down the field. Benjamin Einess and Carter Edwards made key tackles, but Harding completed a scoring drive with a touchdown, Franklin again scoring a rushing touchdown this time from seven yards out, increasing their lead to 31-10.&nbsp;&nbsp;A significant turnover for Northwest Missouri State opened the fourth quarter, as Shane Fredrickson forced a fumble from Harding's Andrew Miller, which was recovered by O'Shea Davis at the Northwest 20-yard line. This defensive play set the stage for a promising offensive drive, beginning with a 12-yard rush by Madixx Morris. Northwest continued to move the chains, highlighted by a 19-yard rush from Te'Shaun Porter, but the drive ultimately stalled following a sack.The Bisons capitalized on the turnover on downs by executing a series of successful rushes, culminating in a 23-yard touchdown run by Miller, extending their lead to 38-10. The Bearcats responded with a burst of offensive energy, as Porter broke free for a 66-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 38-16. This was Porter's longest rush of the season. Despite the effort, the subsequent onside kick was unsuccessful, allowing Harding to maintain possession and run down the clock, securing the victory.&nbsp; Harding's 38 points were the most given up by a Bearcat team in the playoffs since Ferris State scored 41 in 2021.&nbsp; Porter rushed for 106 yards on five carries, including one touchdown. Torry contributed significantly with 116 rushing yards on eight attempts, adding a touchdown to his performance.&nbsp; Ruhnke was 7 of 15 through the air for 75 yards with an interception.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trevor Spady had one catch for 20 yards to be the leading receiver, while Porter added two catches for 19 yards.Harding moved to 12-0 and Northwest finished at 9-3.Pribula returns, but Mizzou's losing streak in Norman moves to 19 games<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763877857580.jpeg" alt="The Missouri Tigers offense looked stagnant against Oklahoma, as the Tigers losing streak in Norman moved to 19 games falling 17-6/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X" />
 <figcaption>The Missouri Tigers offense looked stagnant against Oklahoma, as the Tigers losing streak in Norman moved to 19 games falling 17-6/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>The Oklahoma Sooners took a critical step in their quest to reach the College Football Playoff as&nbsp;John Mateer threw two touchdown passes, and the #8 Oklahoma defeated #23 Missouri 17-6, knocking the Tigers losing streak to Oklahoma in Norman to 19 games.The Sooners, coming off road wins over Tennessee and Alabama, claimed their third straight victory over a ranked opponent and their fifth over a team that was ranked when they played. The Sooners likely will make the playoff field with a win at home against LSU on Saturday.Oklahoma gained just 276 total yards. It wasn't flashy, but the Sooners got what they needed,Missouri took a 3-0 lead on a 39 yard field goal by Robert Meyer and tried to extend the advantage to six before Oklahoma's Peyton Bowen blocked Meyer's 35-yard field-goal attempt. On the second play after the Sooners gained possession, Isaiah Sategna turned a short catch from Mateer into an 87-yard touchdown that put the Sooners up 7-3.Mateer connected with Javonnie Gibson for an eight yard score that extended the Sooners lead, and with 17 seconds remaining in the half Oliver Robbins knocked through a 21 yard field goal for the Tigers, and Oklahoma's lead was 14-6 at the halftime break.In the third quarter, Sooners kicker Tate Sandell hit a 45 yard field goal for the final points of the game.&nbsp; With Oklahoma up 17-6 in the third quarter, Sooner defensive back Reggie Powers III was ejected for targeting on what would have been a critical third-down stop. His teammate, Jacobe Johnson, intercepted Pribula on the next play to maintain Oklahoma's momentum.Oklahoma held the Tigers to 301 yards and shut them out in the second half.&nbsp;Missouri’s Ahmad Hardy, who led FBS with 134.6 yards rushing per game and ran for 300 yards and three touchdowns against Mississippi State last week, finished with 57 yards on 17 carries.&nbsp;Beau Pribula, who dislocated his left ankle last month against Vanderbilt and missed three games, returned on Saturday. He went 20 for 36 passing for 231 yards with two interceptions.&nbsp; Kevin Coleman Jr. caught seven passes for 115 yards for the Tigers.Up next, Missouri (7-4, 3-4 SEC) closes out the regular season at Arkansas on Saturday.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 2:30pm with pregame at 1:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).Jackson's historic day spoiled as Wildcats fall to #12 Utah in road finale<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763880435040.jpeg" alt="Joe Jackson rushed 24 times for 293 yards and three touchdowns, but Kansas State fell to #12 Utah 51-47 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Joe Jackson rushed 24 times for 293 yards and three touchdowns, but Kansas State fell to #12 Utah 51-47 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Devon Dampier threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more, including a go-ahead one yard score with 56 seconds left, and #12 Utah rallied from a 12-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter for a wild 51-47 victory over Kansas State.The game turned on an unusual play. After the Wildcats took a 47-35 lead on Joe Jackson’s third rushing touchdown of the game, Kansas State went for two, but Utah’s Tao Johnson intercepted a tipped ball and returned it to the Kansas State end zone for two points to make it 47-37.&nbsp; Dampier’s 20-yard touchdown toss to Larry Simmons got Utah within three with 2:47 left. After the Utes forced a punt, Dampier led the winning drive, setting up his go-ahead score with a 59-yard run to the one on fourth down.Lander Barton intercepted Avery Johnson's pass with 49 seconds remaining to seal it for Utah, which kept alive its hopes for a league title and a College Football Playoff berth.The teams went into the second quarter tied 7-7 after exchanging rushing touchdowns in the first quarter, Antonio Martin Jr rushing for a 37 yard touchdown for the Wildcats and Byrd Ficklin going in from 10 yards out for the Utes.&nbsp; Kansas State's offense exploded before halftime for 24 points, first getting a six yard rushing score from Avery Johnson to retake the lead.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What Coach said ⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/avery2johnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@avery2johnson</a> converts for 6! <a href="https://t.co/UIh2Wpuh6k">pic.twitter.com/UIh2Wpuh6k</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1992352841550442693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ficklin scored his second touchdown of the game from six yards out to tie the game up again, but Jackson soon broke up the tie with his first touchdown of the game, breaking a 66 yard touchdown run.&nbsp; The Utes continued trading blows with the Wildcats, scoring their final touchdown of the half to tie up the game one more time, Dampier rushing for an eight yard score.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas State broke the tie with a 22 yard field goal by Luis Rodriguez.&nbsp; Late in the first half, with 1:17 until the halftime break, Jackson broke another long run for a touchdown to extend the Wildcats lead, running 80 yards to the house for a score, and sending Kansas State to the halftime break with a 31-21 lead.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A career-day for <a href="https://twitter.com/Joeboy_3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Joeboy_3</a> 🎉 80-yard rush for his second TD of the afternoon <a href="https://t.co/SNgSbAxh4I">pic.twitter.com/SNgSbAxh4I</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1992366206448435349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Out of the halftime break Utah began their rally back on the Wildcats,&nbsp; Dampier found Dallen Bentley for a 38-yard touchdown reception and Ficklin ran for his third score to put Utah up 35-31 early in the third quarter. But Johnson threw to Garrett Oakley for a two yard touchdown on fourth down and Rodriguez added a 36-yard field goal to put the Wildcats back ahead 41-35 with 8:51 to play.<div></div>Jackson rushed for a school-record 293 yards for Kansas State, topping Darren Sproles' mark of 292 yards set in 2004. The Wildcats finished with a program-record 472 yards rushing, the most by a Division I team in a loss since Army ran for 534 in a 52-49 loss to North Texas on Nov. 18, 2017.&nbsp; Johnson was 12 for 23 through the air for 102 yards with one touchdown and one interception, adding 12 rushes for 72 yards and a score.&nbsp; Jaron Tibbs had six catches for 45 yards.Up next, Kansas State (5-6, 4-4 Big 12) hosts Colorado on Saturday in the regular season finale.&nbsp; The kickoff time is TBDKansas offense struggles on road as Iowa State snaps losing skid<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763884795125.jpeg" alt="Boden Groen had five catches for 76 yards and a score as Kansas fell to Iowa State 38-14 on the road Saturday/ Photo courtesy of KU Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Boden Groen had five catches for 76 yards and a score as Kansas fell to Iowa State 38-14 on the road Saturday/ Photo courtesy of KU Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Rocco Becht threw for 241 yards and three touchdowns, with two scores and 73 yards going to Brett Eskildsen, and Iowa State defeated Kansas 38-14 in the Jayhawks regular season road finale.The Cyclones earned their first win against the Jayhawks since 2021 and came away with their first home victory since Sept. 27 against Arizona.Carsen Hansen rushed for 99 of his 120 yards in the first half, including a four yard score to put Iowa State ahead 14-0 early in the second quarter.&nbsp; That score from Hansen came after Becht threw a nine yard touchdown pass to Eskildsen on the first offensive drive of the game. Kyle Konrardy added the second-longest field goal of his career from 55-yards out to extend the lead 17-0, which is where the score stood as the two teams went to the halftime break.The Jayhawks and Cyclones combined for four straight touchdown drives in the third quarter, with Iowa State leading 31-14 entering the fourth.&nbsp; Leshon Williams opened the second half scoring for Kansas with a four yard touchdown run, but Iowa State extended their lead with Becht connecting again with Eskildsen for a 20 yard touchdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;Backup quarterback Cole Ballard added to the scoring for the Jayhawks, with the only other touchdown, cutting into the Cyclones lead for the moment with a 21 yard touchdown pass to Boden Groen.&nbsp; Iowa State's final score of the quarter was Becht's third touchdown pass, connecting with Benjamin Brahmer on a 12 yard touchdown pass to send the game to the final quarter.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🤌 <a href="https://t.co/VA7t4VgnEs">https://t.co/VA7t4VgnEs</a> <a href="https://t.co/SPdiLri1G3">pic.twitter.com/SPdiLri1G3</a>&mdash; Kansas Football (@KU_Football) <a href="https://twitter.com/KU_Football/status/1992310196002263223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Aiden Flora capped the scoring with 1:07 left in the fourth with his first rushing touchdown of the season for the Cyclones, running the ball in from 38 yards out.Jalon Daniels was 13-of-23 passing for 154 yards and an interception for Kansas.&nbsp; Groen had five catches for 76 yards.&nbsp; Daniel Hishaw Jr had eight runs for 50 yards, while Williams added four rushes for 42 yards and a touchdown.&nbsp; Ballard in relief of Daniels was 3 for 6 for 37 yards and the touchdown.&nbsp;Kansas (5-6, 3-5 Big 12) returns home for a game against Utah on Saturday to wrap up the regular season.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 11am and the game will air on ESPN.Nebraska falters as Huskers pounded by Nittany Lions in road finale<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763887789749.jpeg" alt="TJ Lateef runs away from Amare Campbell.&nbsp; Nebraska's offense struggled to get much going against the Nittany Lions as the Cornhuskers fell 37-10 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of Nebraska Athletics" />
 <figcaption>TJ Lateef runs away from Amare Campbell.&nbsp; Nebraska's offense struggled to get much going against the Nittany Lions as the Cornhuskers fell 37-10 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of Nebraska Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure> Kaytron Allen ran for 160 yards and two touchdowns, and Penn State’s defense played its best game of the season to keep the Nittany Lions’ bowl hopes alive with a 37-10 win over Nebraska.&nbsp; Allen, who racked up 181 yards rushing in last week’s win against Michigan State, became Penn State’s career rushing leader with 3,954 yards, passing Evan Royster’s 3,932 set in 2010.The senior back plowed through and zipped around the Huskers all night. Allen passed Saquon Barkley on the school’s career rushing list in the first half before eclipsing Royster with a three yard run in the fourth quarter.&nbsp; By then the Nittany Lions&nbsp; had put the game out of reach, scoring on five-straight possessions while their defense stymied the Cornhuskers.Allen ripped off a 50-yard run around Nebraska’s left flank on the Nittany Lion’s opening drive to help setup a short touchdown toss from Ethan Grunkemeyer to tight end Andrew Rappleyea.&nbsp; Ryan Barker booted a 26-yard field goal, then Nicholas Singleton capped Penn State’s next two drives with four and 10-yard rushing touchdowns to make it 23-3 at the&nbsp; halftime break, the Huskers getting just a 31 yard field goal from Kyle Cunanan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska mustered just 140 yards in the first half, turned the ball over on downs twice and punted twice more. Penn State forced three more turnovers on downs in the second half.Allen added a three yard touchdown run to open the second half scoring.&nbsp; The Cornhuskers didn’t find the end zone until quarterback TJ Lateef scrambled 11 yards through a broken play to cut Penn State’s lead to 30-10 with 0:55 left in the third.&nbsp; Allen then scored a 13-yard rushing touchdown early in the fourth, which prompted bundled-up Penn State fans to chant “Terry, Terry, Terry!” as Smith, who played for Joe Paterno. wiped tears from his eyes on the sideline.&nbsp; As the final seconds ticked off the clock, Penn State players pulled out signs that read “Hire Terry Smith”.Emmett Johnson had 19 carries for 103 yards and eight catches for 48 for yards for the Cornhuskers , who have lost three of their last five.&nbsp; Lateef was 21 of 37 through the air for 187 yards and added 15 rushing yards on 10 carries with a score.&nbsp; Jacory Barney Jr led the receivers with five catches for 55 yards.Up next, Nebraska (7-4, 4-4 Big Ten) hosts Iowa on Friday in the regular season finale.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 11am and the game will air on CBS.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

CFB: Bearcats fall in playoffs, Mizzou offense cold, K State falls on RBs career day

The postseason continued in Missouri as area teams rolled into the MSHSAA State quarterfinals, every team in the area playing on Saturday in the round.&nbsp; Below are the scores from the teams playing, with some advancing for the first time in some time through the playoffs.&nbsp;

St. Michael the Archangel 37&nbsp; Maryville 34

Rock Port 70&nbsp; St. Joseph Christian 12

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763847275796.jpeg" alt="Rock Port running back Brock Holmes.&nbsp; The Blue Jays beat St. Joseph Christian 70-12 in the 8-man state quarterfinals, advancing to the semifinals for the first time since 2012/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Rock Port running back Brock Holmes.&nbsp; The Blue Jays beat St. Joseph Christian 70-12 in the 8-man state quarterfinals, advancing to the semifinals for the first time since 2012/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe postseason continued in Missouri as area teams rolled into the MSHSAA State quarterfinals, every team in the area playing on Saturday in the round.&nbsp; Below are the scores from the teams playing, with some advancing for the first time in some time through the playoffs.&nbsp;11-man Football<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758941974575.jpeg" alt="West Platte's Brady McMillan (26) breaks around a block for a big run against Plattsburg.&nbsp; The Blue Jays beat Adrian to advance to the MSHSAA Class 1 semifinals/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>West Platte's Brady McMillan (26) breaks around a block for a big run against Plattsburg.&nbsp; The Blue Jays beat Adrian to advance to the MSHSAA Class 1 semifinals/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Class 1West Platte 34&nbsp; Adrian 7<ol>
 <li>First time since 2005 the Blue Jays have advanced to semifinals</li><li>Win over defending state champions</li><li>State semifinals: West Platte @ Tipton- Sat. Nov. 29th @ 1pm</li>
 </ol>Class 2Monroe City 58&nbsp; Mid-Buchanan 21Class 3St. Michael the Archangel 37&nbsp; Maryville 348-Man Football<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760756382567.jpeg" alt="Nodaway Valley's Cooper Snodderly (7) attempts to stiff arm Rock Ports Camden McEnaney (28).&nbsp; Rock Port beat St. Joseph Christian to advance to the MSHSAA 8-man semifinals/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Nodaway Valley's Cooper Snodderly (7) attempts to stiff arm Rock Ports Camden McEnaney (28).&nbsp; Rock Port beat St. Joseph Christian to advance to the MSHSAA 8-man semifinals/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Worth County 36&nbsp; North Shelby 34<ol>
 <li>State Semifinals: Worth County @ Archie- Sat. Nov. 29th @ 2pm</li>
 </ol>Rock Port 70&nbsp; St. Joseph Christian 12<ol>
 <li>First trip to the state semifinals for Blue Jays since 2012</li><li>State Semifinals: Rock Port vs Concordia- Saturday Nov. 29 @ 1pm</li>
 </ol>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

High School Football scoreboard state quarterfinals Nov. 22nd

One day after adding to their bullpen, signing reliever Alex Lange, the Kansas City Royals shored up their infield, agreeing to terms with second baseman Jonathan India to avoid arbitration.&nbsp;

India had been considered a candidate to be non-tendered following a first season in Kansas City in which he posted a .233/.323/.346 line. He was acquired in November in a trade that sent Brady Singer to the Reds.&nbsp; The Royals though signed India to a one year deal, a source telling MLB.com the deal is worth $8 million. He made just over $7 million in 2025.

Kansas City did also reach an agreement with relief pitcher James McArthur to avoid arbitration as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday is Major League Baseball’s tender deadline. Clubs must decide to offer a 2026 contract to their arbitration-eligible players or otherwise non-tender them, making them free agents.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744508377264.jpeg" alt="File Photo" />
 <figcaption>File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEOne day after adding to their bullpen, signing reliever Alex Lange, the Kansas City Royals shored up their infield, agreeing to terms with second baseman Jonathan India to avoid arbitration.&nbsp;India had been considered a candidate to be non-tendered following a first season in Kansas City in which he posted a .233/.323/.346 line. He was acquired in November in a trade that sent Brady Singer to the Reds.&nbsp; The Royals though signed India to a one year deal, a source telling MLB.com the deal is worth $8 million. He made just over $7 million in 2025.Kansas City did also reach an agreement with relief pitcher James McArthur to avoid arbitration as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday is Major League Baseball’s tender deadline. Clubs must decide to offer a 2026 contract to their arbitration-eligible players or otherwise non-tender them, making them free agents.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals resign India to one year deal avoiding arbitration

The Kansas City Royals added to their bullpen depth, signing a reliever to help bolster the back end of the bullpen who has ties to the Kansas City area.

The Royals signed former Detroit Tigers closing pitcher Alex Lange to a one year deal on Thursday to a deal worth&nbsp; $900,000 in 2026 with $100,000 in performance bonuses, a source told MLB.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lange will still be arbitration-eligible after the 2026 season and is under club control through 2028.&nbsp;

On the injured list for most of the 2025 season because of right lat surgery, Lange made just one appearance for the Tigers before he was optioned to Triple-A Toledo in August. In 24 Triple-A appearances, Lange posted a 4.63 ERA.&nbsp; He was designated for assignment by the Tigers on November 12th.

Lange though is not that far removed from being a key piece of Detroit's bullpen. He notched 26 saves for the Tigers in 2023, with 32 save opportunities, and posted a 3.68 ERA across 66 innings that year, which included a 27.4% strikeout rate. Between 2022-23, he appeared in 138 games and posted a 3.55 ERA.&nbsp;&nbsp;His strikeout rate plummeted in 2024, though, and he was optioned to Triple-A before the significant lat injury ended his season.

Lange went to Lee’s Summit West High School in Lee’s Summit, Mo., just outside of Kansas City. He went to Louisiana State University and was a first-round pick by the Cubs in the 2017 Draft.&nbsp; If Lange is healthy again and his stuff still plays like it did in ‘23, the Royals are getting a bounce-back candidate who could add depth to their bullpen.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763697068911.jpeg" alt="The Kansas City Royals signed Kansas City native and former Detroit Tigers closer Alex Lange to a one year deal on Thursday to bolster their bullpen/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Royals signed Kansas City native and former Detroit Tigers closer Alex Lange to a one year deal on Thursday to bolster their bullpen/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Royals added to their bullpen depth, signing a reliever to help bolster the back end of the bullpen who has ties to the Kansas City area.The Royals signed former Detroit Tigers closing pitcher Alex Lange to a one year deal on Thursday to a deal worth&nbsp; $900,000 in 2026 with $100,000 in performance bonuses, a source told MLB.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lange will still be arbitration-eligible after the 2026 season and is under club control through 2028.&nbsp;On the injured list for most of the 2025 season because of right lat surgery, Lange made just one appearance for the Tigers before he was optioned to Triple-A Toledo in August. In 24 Triple-A appearances, Lange posted a 4.63 ERA.&nbsp; He was designated for assignment by the Tigers on November 12th.Lange though is not that far removed from being a key piece of Detroit's bullpen. He notched 26 saves for the Tigers in 2023, with 32 save opportunities, and posted a 3.68 ERA across 66 innings that year, which included a 27.4% strikeout rate. Between 2022-23, he appeared in 138 games and posted a 3.55 ERA.&nbsp;&nbsp;His strikeout rate plummeted in 2024, though, and he was optioned to Triple-A before the significant lat injury ended his season.Lange went to Lee’s Summit West High School in Lee’s Summit, Mo., just outside of Kansas City. He went to Louisiana State University and was a first-round pick by the Cubs in the 2017 Draft.&nbsp; If Lange is healthy again and his stuff still plays like it did in ‘23, the Royals are getting a bounce-back candidate who could add depth to their bullpen.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals add bullpen help signing KC native, former Detroit closer Alex Lange

The Missouri Volleyball Coaches Association has announced the 2025 All State selections for Class 1 through Class 5 as the high school volleyball season has concluded.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Among those honored in Class 1 were Mound City junior Maggie Osburn and Rock Port sophomore Braylyn Wood.&nbsp; Mound City fell to Rock Port in the Class 1 District 16 championship game, before the Blue Jays fell to Northland Christian in the Class 1 sectional round.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Osburn finished the season for Mound City with 354 kills, 66 serving aces, and a hitting percentage of .242.&nbsp; For Rock Port, Wood recorded 77 serving aces with 293 kills and had 362 digs, also recording 77 assists for the season.

In Class 2, two East Buchanan Bulldogs represented the area, along with one from Lawson and another from Mid-Buchanan.&nbsp; East Buchanan senior Brooklynn Johnson and junior Kendyl Edwards were selected.&nbsp; Johnson and Edwards helped lead the Bulldogs to a fourth place finish in the Class 2 State tournament.&nbsp; Johnson finished the season with 376 kills and a .244 hitting percentage.&nbsp; Johnson also recorded 52 total blocks in her final year.&nbsp; Edwards put up a whopping 733 assists, ranked #2 in Class 2 District 16, and had 221 digs.&nbsp; She also had 16 service aces.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Lawson senior Kayla Phipps and Mid-Buchanan sophomore Tatum Moss were chosen as well.&nbsp;For Lawson, Phipps and the Cardinals fell to East Buchanan in the Class 2 sectionals in four sets.&nbsp; Phipps had 463 digs in the season and 56 serving aces.&nbsp; In Faucett, at Mid-Buchanan, Moss and the Dragons fell to the Bulldogs as well in the Class 2 District 16 championship.&nbsp; Moss had 350 kills and a .275 hitting percentage.&nbsp; She recorded 33 service aces and had 338 digs to go with 37 blocks.

In Class 3, Bishop LeBlond seniors Katie Sego and Rilyn Conard were selected All State.&nbsp; Moving up to Class 3 this year, the Golden Eagles fell in the Class 3 District 16 semifinals to Chillicothe.&nbsp; Conard had 276 kills and 331 digs in her final year at LeBlond.&nbsp; She also recorded 55 serving aces and 17 total blocks.&nbsp; Sego had 53 service aces and 51 total blocks.&nbsp; She recorded 140 kills and 66 digs with 14 assists.

Chillicothe senior Lyla Beetsma was also named All State in Class 3.&nbsp; The Hornets fell to Savannah in the Class 3 District 16 finals after beating Bishop LeBlond.&nbsp; Beetsma put together an outstanding 2025 with 538 kills which ranked #9 in the state and had a .349 hitting percentage.&nbsp; She also had 26 service aces and 35 total blocks, to go with 464 digs and 34 assists.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762047758043.jpeg" alt="East Buchanan's Brooklynn Johnson (25) spikes the ball through the block of Lafayette County's Lillian Joyner (14).&nbsp; Johnson was one of&nbsp; the area All State players voted on by the Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>East Buchanan's Brooklynn Johnson (25) spikes the ball through the block of Lafayette County's Lillian Joyner (14).&nbsp; Johnson was one of&nbsp; the area All State players voted on by the Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Missouri Volleyball Coaches Association has announced the 2025 All State selections for Class 1 through Class 5 as the high school volleyball season has concluded.&nbsp;&nbsp;Among those honored in Class 1 were Mound City junior Maggie Osburn and Rock Port sophomore Braylyn Wood.&nbsp; Mound City fell to Rock Port in the Class 1 District 16 championship game, before the Blue Jays fell to Northland Christian in the Class 1 sectional round.&nbsp;&nbsp;Osburn finished the season for Mound City with 354 kills, 66 serving aces, and a hitting percentage of .242.&nbsp; For Rock Port, Wood recorded 77 serving aces with 293 kills and had 362 digs, also recording 77 assists for the season.In Class 2, two East Buchanan Bulldogs represented the area, along with one from Lawson and another from Mid-Buchanan.&nbsp; East Buchanan senior Brooklynn Johnson and junior Kendyl Edwards were selected.&nbsp; Johnson and Edwards helped lead the Bulldogs to a fourth place finish in the Class 2 State tournament.&nbsp; Johnson finished the season with 376 kills and a .244 hitting percentage.&nbsp; Johnson also recorded 52 total blocks in her final year.&nbsp; Edwards put up a whopping 733 assists, ranked #2 in Class 2 District 16, and had 221 digs.&nbsp; She also had 16 service aces.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lawson senior Kayla Phipps and Mid-Buchanan sophomore Tatum Moss were chosen as well.&nbsp;For Lawson, Phipps and the Cardinals fell to East Buchanan in the Class 2 sectionals in four sets.&nbsp; Phipps had 463 digs in the season and 56 serving aces.&nbsp; In Faucett, at Mid-Buchanan, Moss and the Dragons fell to the Bulldogs as well in the Class 2 District 16 championship.&nbsp; Moss had 350 kills and a .275 hitting percentage.&nbsp; She recorded 33 service aces and had 338 digs to go with 37 blocks.In Class 3, Bishop LeBlond seniors Katie Sego and Rilyn Conard were selected All State.&nbsp; Moving up to Class 3 this year, the Golden Eagles fell in the Class 3 District 16 semifinals to Chillicothe.&nbsp; Conard had 276 kills and 331 digs in her final year at LeBlond.&nbsp; She also recorded 55 serving aces and 17 total blocks.&nbsp; Sego had 53 service aces and 51 total blocks.&nbsp; She recorded 140 kills and 66 digs with 14 assists.Chillicothe senior Lyla Beetsma was also named All State in Class 3.&nbsp; The Hornets fell to Savannah in the Class 3 District 16 finals after beating Bishop LeBlond.&nbsp; Beetsma put together an outstanding 2025 with 538 kills which ranked #9 in the state and had a .349 hitting percentage.&nbsp; She also had 26 service aces and 35 total blocks, to go with 464 digs and 34 assists.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

 Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association names 2025 All State selections

The Northwest Missouri State University football team had 23 all-MIAA honorees led by a trio of specialty award winners in Clayton Power, Zechariah Owens and head coach John McMenamin as the league announced its annual awards.

Power was named the MIAA Defensive Lineman of Year, Owens captured the MIAA Co-Freshman of the Year award and McMenamin landed the MIAA Coach of the Year accolade. It is the second straight year Northwest has had the MIAA Lineman of the Year. 

McMenamin is the fourth different Bearcat head coach to be named the MIAA Coach of the Year.

The Bearcats landed six first-team all-MIAA performers in Kaleb McCullough (OL), Wes Merriman (OL), Dominic Myers (KR/PR), Clayton Power (DL), Carter Edwards (LB) and Shane Fredrickson (DB). Edwards was a unanimous selection at linebacker.

Northwest had five second-team all-MIAA recipients in Luke Mathews (WR), Dominic Myers (All-Purpose), Harrison Merriman (OL), Nile Schuett (DL) and Ben Einess (LB).

A quartet of Bearcats captured third-team all-MIAA status in Jordan Pigram (DL), Parker Bowen (LB), Mike Harrison (DB) and Antwon Jenkins Jr. (DB).

The Bearcats rounded out the awards with eight all-MIAA honorable mention selections in Chris Ruhnke (QB), Quincy Torry (RB), Gannon Gragert (TE), Andrew Waltke (TE), Pierce Wand (OL), Zyland Saddler-Robinson (DL), Holden Zigmant (DB) and Tommy Warner (P).

The Bearcats (9-2 overall) will travel to Searcy, Ark., to take on the region's top-seeded Harding Bisons Saturday at 1 p.m. in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Div. II Playoffs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759173394831.jpeg" alt="Grant Berry (93) and Clayton Power (91) celebrate.&nbsp; Power was named the MIAA Defensive Lineman of the Year/ File Photo" />
 <figcaption>Grant Berry (93) and Clayton Power (91) celebrate.&nbsp; Power was named the MIAA Defensive Lineman of the Year/ File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Northwest Missouri State University football team had 23 all-MIAA honorees led by a trio of specialty award winners in Clayton Power, Zechariah Owens and head coach John McMenamin as the league announced its annual awards.Power was named the MIAA Defensive Lineman of Year, Owens captured the MIAA Co-Freshman of the Year award and McMenamin landed the MIAA Coach of the Year accolade. It is the second straight year Northwest has had the MIAA Lineman of the Year. McMenamin is the fourth different Bearcat head coach to be named the MIAA Coach of the Year.The Bearcats landed six first-team all-MIAA performers in Kaleb McCullough (OL), Wes Merriman (OL), Dominic Myers (KR/PR), Clayton Power (DL), Carter Edwards (LB) and Shane Fredrickson (DB). Edwards was a unanimous selection at linebacker.Northwest had five second-team all-MIAA recipients in Luke Mathews (WR), Dominic Myers (All-Purpose), Harrison Merriman (OL), Nile Schuett (DL) and Ben Einess (LB).A quartet of Bearcats captured third-team all-MIAA status in Jordan Pigram (DL), Parker Bowen (LB), Mike Harrison (DB) and Antwon Jenkins Jr. (DB).The Bearcats rounded out the awards with eight all-MIAA honorable mention selections in Chris Ruhnke (QB), Quincy Torry (RB), Gannon Gragert (TE), Andrew Waltke (TE), Pierce Wand (OL), Zyland Saddler-Robinson (DL), Holden Zigmant (DB) and Tommy Warner (P).The Bearcats (9-2 overall) will travel to Searcy, Ark., to take on the region's top-seeded Harding Bisons Saturday at 1 p.m. in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Div. II Playoffs.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Several Northwest Missouri State Bearcats haul in postseason MIAA football honors

With the 2025 season now behind them fully and the offseason approaching, the Kansas City Royals have announced team awards, voted on by the Kansas City chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America.&nbsp;

St. Joseph Central alum Noah Cameron has been honored for his dazzling rookie year, being named the Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year, making Cameron the first rookie to win the award since Brad Keller in 2018.

Cameron was given the unenviable task of making his MLB debut on the road against the Tampa Bay Rays in late April. For many rookies, a tough road start is less than ideal. However, Cameron rose to the occasion with 6 1/3 shutout innings. He took a no-hitter deep into the game before earning his first win in convincing fashion.&nbsp; He only elevated his game from there.

Cameron posted a 9-7 record with a 2.99 ERA making 10 quality starts in 24 outings. He recorded 114 strikeouts in 138 1/3 innings and held opponents to a .214 batting average.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Royals needed Cameron due to multiple injuries in the starting rotation.&nbsp; Cameron finished fourth-place&nbsp; in AL Rookie of the Year voting, making him an integral part of the starting rotation heading into 2026.

The Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year Award is named after the late Kansas City-area sportscaster.

Cameron was joined on the Royals awards by shortstop Bobby Witt Jr, honored with the Les Milgram Player of the Year award for a fourth consecutive season, and third baseman Maikel Garcia who was named the teams Joe Burke Special Achievement award winner.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754853282166.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron/ File Photo" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron/ File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEWith the 2025 season now behind them fully and the offseason approaching, the Kansas City Royals have announced team awards, voted on by the Kansas City chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America.&nbsp;St. Joseph Central alum Noah Cameron has been honored for his dazzling rookie year, being named the Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year, making Cameron the first rookie to win the award since Brad Keller in 2018.Cameron was given the unenviable task of making his MLB debut on the road against the Tampa Bay Rays in late April. For many rookies, a tough road start is less than ideal. However, Cameron rose to the occasion with 6 1/3 shutout innings. He took a no-hitter deep into the game before earning his first win in convincing fashion.&nbsp; He only elevated his game from there.Cameron posted a 9-7 record with a 2.99 ERA making 10 quality starts in 24 outings. He recorded 114 strikeouts in 138 1/3 innings and held opponents to a .214 batting average.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Royals needed Cameron due to multiple injuries in the starting rotation.&nbsp; Cameron finished fourth-place&nbsp; in AL Rookie of the Year voting, making him an integral part of the starting rotation heading into 2026.The Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year Award is named after the late Kansas City-area sportscaster.Cameron was joined on the Royals awards by shortstop Bobby Witt Jr, honored with the Les Milgram Player of the Year award for a fourth consecutive season, and third baseman Maikel Garcia who was named the teams Joe Burke Special Achievement award winner.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Noah Cameron named Royals pitcher of the year after dazzling rookie campaign

 Wil Lutz lined up for a 35-yard field goal to beat the Chiefs on Sunday and couldn't help but think back to last year at Kansas City, when his kick was blocked as time expired in the same situation.&nbsp; 

This time, Lutz nailed the game-winner, his fifth field goal of the day, pushing the Denver Broncos past the Chiefs 22-19 for their eighth straight victory.&nbsp; Broncos coach Sean Payton said last November's 16-14 heartbreaker at Arrowhead Stadium galvanized his team, which went on a 5-2 run to reach the playoffs, and Lutz concurred.

The Broncos all but buried the Chiefs in the AFC West, which Kansas City has won every year since 2016. Chiefs coach Andy Reid fell to 27-5 following a bye week, counting the playoffs and his time with Philadelphia.

Bo Nix set up the game-winning kick with a 32-yard strike to Troy Franklin that got Denver to the Kansas City 15 with under a minute remaining.

After Lutz hit a 38 yard field goal to give Denver a three point advantage, Patrick Mahomes gave Kansas City its only lead on a 21-yard touchdown toss to Travis Kelce, marking the veteran tight end's 84th career touchdown, one more than previous Chiefs franchise record-holder Priest Holmes. That put the Chiefs up 19-16, but Harrison Butker's extra point was blocked by Frank Crum.&nbsp; The Broncos tied it at 19-all on Lutz's 54-yarder with 4:10 remaining.

Denver's defense forced Kansas City to go three-and-out when Ja'Quan McMillian sacked Mahomes on third-and-10 from the Chiefs 36. That was the second sack by McMillian, who also had six tackles, including two for loss, two quarterback hits, a pass breakup and an interception.&nbsp; 

The Broncos chewed up the final 2:59 by driving 58 yards in 10 plays. They won their 11th straight game at Empower Field, where they haven't lost since October 2024, and they beat the Chiefs on their home turf for the third consecutive time.

The teams went into halftime tied at six, Lutz hitting field goals of 29 and 24 yards in the first quarter, and Harrison Butker knocking through a 31 yard kick in the first quarter and another from the same distance late in the second quarter.&nbsp;

Jaleel McLaughlin, playing in place of injured starter J.K. Dobbins, who underwent season-ending foot surgery last week, bullied his way in from four yards out to break the tie late in the third quarter and then the Chiefs seized the momentum when Mahomes found Tyquan Thornton for a 61-yard gain to the Denver 11. 

That set up Kareem Hunt's two yard touchdown run that tied it at 13. That was Kansas City's first touchdown at Empower Field in 11 quarters.

Mahomes was 29 of 45 passing for 276 yards with one touchdown and one interception.&nbsp; Hunt rushed 13 times for 59 yards with a score.&nbsp; Kelce led all receivers with nine catches for 91 yards and a touchdown, while Hollywood Brown had four catches for 40 yards.

Up next Kansas City (5-5) host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.&nbsp; Kickoff is at noon with pregame at 11am on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763340605602.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Denver Broncos" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Denver Broncos</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE Wil Lutz lined up for a 35-yard field goal to beat the Chiefs on Sunday and couldn't help but think back to last year at Kansas City, when his kick was blocked as time expired in the same situation.&nbsp; This time, Lutz nailed the game-winner, his fifth field goal of the day, pushing the Denver Broncos past the Chiefs 22-19 for their eighth straight victory.&nbsp; Broncos coach Sean Payton said last November's 16-14 heartbreaker at Arrowhead Stadium galvanized his team, which went on a 5-2 run to reach the playoffs, and Lutz concurred.The Broncos all but buried the Chiefs in the AFC West, which Kansas City has won every year since 2016. Chiefs coach Andy Reid fell to 27-5 following a bye week, counting the playoffs and his time with Philadelphia.Bo Nix set up the game-winning kick with a 32-yard strike to Troy Franklin that got Denver to the Kansas City 15 with under a minute remaining.After Lutz hit a 38 yard field goal to give Denver a three point advantage, Patrick Mahomes gave Kansas City its only lead on a 21-yard touchdown toss to Travis Kelce, marking the veteran tight end's 84th career touchdown, one more than previous Chiefs franchise record-holder Priest Holmes. That put the Chiefs up 19-16, but Harrison Butker's extra point was blocked by Frank Crum.&nbsp; The Broncos tied it at 19-all on Lutz's 54-yarder with 4:10 remaining.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RIGHT WHEN WE NEEDED HIM MOST‼️ <a href="https://t.co/VKGspXkkkt">pic.twitter.com/VKGspXkkkt</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1990208590158627154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Denver's defense forced Kansas City to go three-and-out when Ja'Quan McMillian sacked Mahomes on third-and-10 from the Chiefs 36. That was the second sack by McMillian, who also had six tackles, including two for loss, two quarterback hits, a pass breakup and an interception.&nbsp; The Broncos chewed up the final 2:59 by driving 58 yards in 10 plays. They won their 11th straight game at Empower Field, where they haven't lost since October 2024, and they beat the Chiefs on their home turf for the third consecutive time.The teams went into halftime tied at six, Lutz hitting field goals of 29 and 24 yards in the first quarter, and Harrison Butker knocking through a 31 yard kick in the first quarter and another from the same distance late in the second quarter.&nbsp;Jaleel McLaughlin, playing in place of injured starter J.K. Dobbins, who underwent season-ending foot surgery last week, bullied his way in from four yards out to break the tie late in the third quarter and then the Chiefs seized the momentum when Mahomes found Tyquan Thornton for a 61-yard gain to the Denver 11. That set up Kareem Hunt's two yard touchdown run that tied it at 13. That was Kansas City's first touchdown at Empower Field in 11 quarters.Mahomes was 29 of 45 passing for 276 yards with one touchdown and one interception.&nbsp; Hunt rushed 13 times for 59 yards with a score.&nbsp; Kelce led all receivers with nine catches for 91 yards and a touchdown, while Hollywood Brown had four catches for 40 yards.Up next Kansas City (5-5) host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.&nbsp; Kickoff is at noon with pregame at 11am on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Division hopes fade as Chiefs fall to Broncos 19-22 after bye week

Hardy nears single game rushing record in win over Bulldogs

Ahmad Hardy had a career-best 300 yards rushing and three touchdowns on 25 carries, and Toriano Pride Jr. had a 62-yard fumble return and pick six to help Missouri beat Mississippi State 49-27.

The Bulldogs answered the score, cutting the lead back to one possession with a two yard run by quarterback Blake Shapen.&nbsp; On the next drive, Zollers threw an interception, but after the turnover the Missouri defense stepped up.&nbsp; Mississippi State reached the Missouri two on a 16-play drive, but Ethan Myers’ low snap on a 25-yard field-goal attempt ricocheted off holder Marlon Hauck’s left knee. Pride recovered the fumble and returned it 62 yards to the Bulldogs’ 23 yard line with 5:03 remaining in the second quarter.

After the fumble recovery, Hardy scored his first touchdown of the game, rushing in from 10 yards out to cap a five play drive.&nbsp; The Tigers had one more chance to score, but the kicking troubles continued for Missouri and Oliver Robbins attempt clanked off the upright, sending the teams to the locker rooms with the Tigers holding a 21-10 lead at the halftime break.

In the second half, Trevion Williams stripped the ball from Hardy, and Malick Sylla recovered it near midfield with about a minute into the third quarter. Ten plays later, Shapen scored his second rushing touchdown of the game from three yards out to cut Missouri’s lead to 21-17.&nbsp; From there, it was all Missouri.&nbsp; After back to back drives ended with punts, the Tigers needed just two plays for Hardy to make a cut back and rush 72 yards to the endzone for his second touchdown of the game.

On the next drive for Mississippi State, Pride returned an interception 19 yards for a touchdown to give Missouri its largest lead of the night at 35-17 with 4:39 to play in the third quarter.&nbsp; The Bulldogs answered the defensive touchdown with a three yard touchdown pass from Kamario Taylor to Seydou Traore.&nbsp; The next two drives ended with punts to go into the fourth quarter.

The Tigers punted to open the final quarter, but the defense was on it again to add to their lead, this time with a pick six from Marvin Burks Jr off a tipped pass, taking the ball 28 yards for the score.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Bulldogs turned the ball over on downs, and in one play&nbsp;Hardy raced into the end zone from 43 yards out with 11:11 remaining in the fourth quarter to shatter his previous career-high of 250 rushing yards and give him his third career three touchdown game.&nbsp; Mississippi State ended the scoring with a 41 yard field goal from Ferrie with 5:51 remaining in the game.

&nbsp;Zollers, making his second career start, was 8-of-15 passing for 112 yards and two touchdowns and threw an interception in his first career win.&nbsp; Kevin Coleman Jr led the receivers with four catches for 41 yards.&nbsp; Mizzou did lose a couple defensive players in the matchup.&nbsp; Tigers defensive end Nate Johnson was ejected for targeting with 8:56 remaining in the first quarter after delivering a helmet-to-helmet hit on Shapen, and linebacker Jeremiah Trotter was ejected for the same offense with 8:52 remaining in the second quarter.

Up next, Missouri (7-3, 3-3 SEC) play Saturday at #11 Oklahoma.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 11am, with pregame at 10am on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

Tough season for MoWest ends with crushing defeat against UCO

Missouri Western State University football ended the 2025 season with a 50-14 loss to Central Oklahoma on Senior Day at Spratt Stadium.

MoWest struggled with turnovers throughout the game. Trailing only 7-3 late in the first quarter after a 36 yard rushing touchdown by Dev Mathews and a 51 yard field goal by Latrell Armstrong, MoWest drove into the red zone and a pass from Griffons quarterback Brendan Berwald was intercepted in the end zone by David Williams, and the Bronchos went 80 yards on four plays on the ensuing drive, scoring with a 35 yard run by Mathews to lead 14-3 with 14:19 left in the second quarter.

The Bronchos scored 14 points in the last 1:18 of the first half to lead, both on passes from Jett Huff to Dominique Dunn with a two yard strike and a 14 yard pass, to hold a 28-3 at the halftime break.&nbsp; MoWest got the ball to start the second half, and drove 85 yards on nine plays. The drive ended with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Berwald to senior running back Jayden Williams.

But, the Griffons never found momentum on offense again, with three turnovers in the second half and five total on the day. UCO scored 20 points off of Griffon giveaways, and had five drives that started in Griffon territory.&nbsp; The Bronchos scored 26 unanswered points to end the game.

By MATT PIKEHardy nears single game rushing record in win over Bulldogs<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763270765561.jpeg" alt="Ahmad Hardy rushed for 300 yards and three touchdowns as Missouri bounced back with a 49-27 win over Mississippi State/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Ahmad Hardy rushed for 300 yards and three touchdowns as Missouri bounced back with a 49-27 win over Mississippi State/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Ahmad Hardy had a career-best 300 yards rushing and three touchdowns on 25 carries, and Toriano Pride Jr. had a 62-yard fumble return and pick six to help Missouri beat Mississippi State 49-27.The Bulldogs answered the score, cutting the lead back to one possession with a two yard run by quarterback Blake Shapen.&nbsp; On the next drive, Zollers threw an interception, but after the turnover the Missouri defense stepped up.&nbsp; Mississippi State reached the Missouri two on a 16-play drive, but Ethan Myers’ low snap on a 25-yard field-goal attempt ricocheted off holder Marlon Hauck’s left knee. Pride recovered the fumble and returned it 62 yards to the Bulldogs’ 23 yard line with 5:03 remaining in the second quarter.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Matt Zollers hits Donovan Olugbode on this beautiful touchdown pass True freshman to true freshman for Mizzou <a href="https://t.co/6ywSRkrEoX">pic.twitter.com/6ywSRkrEoX</a>&mdash; SEC Mike (@MichaelWBratton) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelWBratton/status/1989863274863796521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After the fumble recovery, Hardy scored his first touchdown of the game, rushing in from 10 yards out to cap a five play drive.&nbsp; The Tigers had one more chance to score, but the kicking troubles continued for Missouri and Oliver Robbins attempt clanked off the upright, sending the teams to the locker rooms with the Tigers holding a 21-10 lead at the halftime break.In the second half, Trevion Williams stripped the ball from Hardy, and Malick Sylla recovered it near midfield with about a minute into the third quarter. Ten plays later, Shapen scored his second rushing touchdown of the game from three yards out to cut Missouri’s lead to 21-17.&nbsp; From there, it was all Missouri.&nbsp; After back to back drives ended with punts, the Tigers needed just two plays for Hardy to make a cut back and rush 72 yards to the endzone for his second touchdown of the game.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">THE CUT BACK &amp; HE CAN&#39;T BEAT. ‼️ AHMAD HARDY 72-YD TD<a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MizzouFootball</a> x 📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/SECNetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SECNetwork</a> <a href="https://t.co/lGaKVc2dCr">pic.twitter.com/lGaKVc2dCr</a>&mdash; Southeastern Conference (@SEC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEC/status/1989897112507548127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On the next drive for Mississippi State, Pride returned an interception 19 yards for a touchdown to give Missouri its largest lead of the night at 35-17 with 4:39 to play in the third quarter.&nbsp; The Bulldogs answered the defensive touchdown with a three yard touchdown pass from Kamario Taylor to Seydou Traore.&nbsp; The next two drives ended with punts to go into the fourth quarter.The Tigers punted to open the final quarter, but the defense was on it again to add to their lead, this time with a pick six from Marvin Burks Jr off a tipped pass, taking the ball 28 yards for the score.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Bulldogs turned the ball over on downs, and in one play&nbsp;Hardy raced into the end zone from 43 yards out with 11:11 remaining in the fourth quarter to shatter his previous career-high of 250 rushing yards and give him his third career three touchdown game.&nbsp; Mississippi State ended the scoring with a 41 yard field goal from Ferrie with 5:51 remaining in the game.&nbsp;Zollers, making his second career start, was 8-of-15 passing for 112 yards and two touchdowns and threw an interception in his first career win.&nbsp; Kevin Coleman Jr led the receivers with four catches for 41 yards.&nbsp; Mizzou did lose a couple defensive players in the matchup.&nbsp; Tigers defensive end Nate Johnson was ejected for targeting with 8:56 remaining in the first quarter after delivering a helmet-to-helmet hit on Shapen, and linebacker Jeremiah Trotter was ejected for the same offense with 8:52 remaining in the second quarter.Up next, Missouri (7-3, 3-3 SEC) play Saturday at #11 Oklahoma.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 11am, with pregame at 10am on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).Tough season for MoWest ends with crushing defeat against UCO<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763273277914.jpeg" alt="Head coach Tyler Fenwick addresses the team after a tough season ended with a 50-14 loss to Central Oklahoma on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of RJ Baig-MoWest Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Head coach Tyler Fenwick addresses the team after a tough season ended with a 50-14 loss to Central Oklahoma on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of RJ Baig-MoWest Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri Western State University football ended the 2025 season with a 50-14 loss to Central Oklahoma on Senior Day at Spratt Stadium.MoWest struggled with turnovers throughout the game. Trailing only 7-3 late in the first quarter after a 36 yard rushing touchdown by Dev Mathews and a 51 yard field goal by Latrell Armstrong, MoWest drove into the red zone and a pass from Griffons quarterback Brendan Berwald was intercepted in the end zone by David Williams, and the Bronchos went 80 yards on four plays on the ensuing drive, scoring with a 35 yard run by Mathews to lead 14-3 with 14:19 left in the second quarter.The Bronchos scored 14 points in the last 1:18 of the first half to lead, both on passes from Jett Huff to Dominique Dunn with a two yard strike and a 14 yard pass, to hold a 28-3 at the halftime break.&nbsp; MoWest got the ball to start the second half, and drove 85 yards on nine plays. The drive ended with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Berwald to senior running back Jayden Williams.But, the Griffons never found momentum on offense again, with three turnovers in the second half and five total on the day. UCO scored 20 points off of Griffon giveaways, and had five drives that started in Griffon territory.&nbsp; The Bronchos scored 26 unanswered points to end the game.Huff connected with Dunn for a third time in the game on a seven yard pass and Joseph Kim knocked through a field goal in the third quarter.&nbsp; In the fourth quarter, with the game well in hand, Mathews ran in for a third time in the game, Kim hit a 50 yard field goal, and Marquise Harris added a two yard rushing scoreBerwald, in his first start of the season and seventh of his MoWest career, went 18–of-35 for 112 yards, a touchdown and three picks. Kody Kirk was 1-of-2 for 17 yards and a pick.&nbsp; Brandon Hall, in his 49th and final game, toted the rock 13 times for 68 yards, ending his career with 3,004 rushing yards. Hall leaves MoWest as one of only three running backs to rush for 3,000-plus yards in his career, joining Michael Hill and Raphael Spencer.Bryce Marcus III led the receivers with four catches for 30 yards.&nbsp;Armstrong set a career-high with his 50-yard field goal in the first quarter.The Griffons will open the 2026 season on Thursday, August 27 at home vs. Augustana. Kickoff time is to be determined. The entire 2026 schedule will be released at a later date.Bearcats share MIAA title after falling to Pitt State in Kansas City<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763262044785.jpeg" alt="Chris Ruhnke (15) scrambles with the ball, attempting to score late in the game/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Chris Ruhnke (15) scrambles with the ball, attempting to score late in the game/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>The Northwest Missouri State Bearcats could not overcome four first half fumbles, falling to the Pittsburgh State Gorillas 27-14 at Children's Mercy Park on Saturday.&nbsp;You can read our full recap of the game by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://maryvillepost.dev/posts/7b741e70-80a4-4293-9c77-8c555ad3fb21">HERE</a>.#3 Ravens close dominant season earning Heart South championship<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763274166792.jpeg" alt="The Benedictine Ravens celebrated closing out a dominant season with a Heart South championship after beating MidAmerica Nazarene 52-7/ Photo courtesy of Bridget O’Sullivan- Raven Athletics" />
 <figcaption>The Benedictine Ravens celebrated closing out a dominant season with a Heart South championship after beating MidAmerica Nazarene 52-7/ Photo courtesy of Bridget O’Sullivan- Raven Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure> The Benedictine Raven football team completed a perfect conference season, defeating MidAmerica Nazarene 52-7.&nbsp; With the win, the #3 Ravens secure their first outright conference championship since 2022. The Ravens shared the conference championship with MNU and Baker University in 2023 and 2024.The Ravens couldn't have scripted a better first half against the Pioneers. The defense stood strong on the opening drive to force a Pioneers punt. On the Ravens first offensive play, Jackson Dooley connected with Titan Osburn for a 45-yard gain and the drive was capped off by a Xavier Ugorji touchdown run.&nbsp; MidAmerica Nazarene answered with a long drive, but Isaiah Hasten intercepted a pass at the three yard line and returned it 59 yards into Pioneers territory. The offense cashed in on the turnover as Dooley found Tanner Zimmerman for a three yard touchdown to give the Ravens a 14-0 lead.In the second quarter, Ugorji scored again on a 23-yard rush to extend the lead. After a Pioneers punt, Tyler Watson made an acrobatic catch at the Pioneers one yard line, and then plunged in for a rushing touchdown to give the Ravens a four possession lead late in the first half.&nbsp; Peyton Jobe was next in line for an interception,&nbsp; the Ravens third of the half after Se'Korrey Thomas also had a pick, which led to a 29-yard field goal by Christian Klobe, giving the Ravens a 31-0 lead at the halftime break.The strong performance carried into the second half. After the Pioneers scored their only touchdown of the game early in the third quarter, a 24 yard pass from Drew Miller to Aiyo'n Carter, the Ravens closed out the game with 21-straight points.&nbsp; The first of those three touchdowns coming after the Ravens defense forced a turnover on downs at the MidAmerica Nazarene 43 yard line. On the Ravens first offensive play, Dooley found Osburn for a 43 yard touchdown strike.In the fourth quarter, Xiomar Hernandez and Robbie Sharp each scored a rushing touchdown, Hernandez putting it in from two yards out and Sharp scoring from three yards away, to put the finishing touches on the 45-point win.Dooley finished with 265 yards through the air and two touchdown passes on 19 of 28 passing. Osburn snagged seven passes for 147 yards and a touchdown to lead Raven receivers. The rushing attack grinded to another 200-yard game as Ugorji had 83 yards and two scores. Ugorji eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark with Saturday's output, the first Ravens rusher to do so since Marquis Stewart in 2019.The win gives Benedictine (10-1, 6-0 Heart South) an automatic entry into the NAIA Football Championship Series. The Ravens will find out their seed during the selection show at 6 p.m. on Sunday.&nbsp;W is a W: K State gets give takeaways, but only 14 points over OK State<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763275254705.jpeg" alt="Jayce Brown caught a 34 yard touchdown pass that gave Kansas State the only lead they needed on way to a 14-6 win over Oklahoma State/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Jayce Brown caught a 34 yard touchdown pass that gave Kansas State the only lead they needed on way to a 14-6 win over Oklahoma State/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State forced five turnovers in a 14-6 win over Oklahoma State.&nbsp; All of the Wildcats' points came off of those turnovers.The offense wasn't so good. Kansas State, which had averaged 34.2 points in its previous five games, was held to 284 yards. Despite that, the Wildcats held on for their third win in four games.&nbsp; Kansas State, a 19 1/2-point favorite according to , didn't care about the margin of victory. Klieman lost his previous three trips to Oklahoma State as the Wildcats' coach.Kansas State did not score until eight minutes into the second quarter. The Wildcats got a first down by penalty after it appeared the Cowboys stopped them on a fourth-and-1, and Jayce Brown caught a 34-yard touchdown pass from Johnson on the next play. The extra point put Kansas State up 7-6 — a score that held up at halftime.&nbsp; Oklahoma State got two 47 yard field goals from Logan Ward for their points, one in the first quarter and the other in the second.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hit &#39;em on the slant<a href="https://twitter.com/avery2johnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@avery2johnson</a> ➡️ <a href="https://twitter.com/jaycebrownn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaycebrownn</a> <a href="https://t.co/fQ2qIrpg2x">pic.twitter.com/fQ2qIrpg2x</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1989760216544764009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>An interception by Oklahoma State's Parker Robertson early in the third quarter set the Cowboys up deep in Kansas State territory. But Flores fumbled when stripped by Cody Stufflebean, and Kansas State's Zashon Rich recovered to preserve Kansas State's lead.Kansas State's Joe Jackson ran 15 yards for a touchdown on a fourth-and-1 play to put the Wildcats up 14-6 in the fourth quarter. The Wildcats converted two fourth downs on the drive.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Splits the seas <a href="https://twitter.com/Joeboy_3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Joeboy_3</a> <a href="https://t.co/c8krYnEHAy">pic.twitter.com/c8krYnEHAy</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1989788491669209493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Avery Johnson passed for 177 yards on 15 of 28 passing with a touchdown and an interception while Jackson added 69 yards rushing and a touchdown for the Wildcats who need one more win to become bowl eligible.&nbsp; Brown caught three passes for 82 yards and a score to lead the receiversNext, Kansas State (5-5, 4-3 Big 12) visits Utah on Saturday.&nbsp; Kickoff time is to be determined.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

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