Season tickets for the seven-game 2026 home campaign will go on sale on Tuesday, February 3.

NEW ORDERS: Tickets will go on sale online only to the public beginning at 5 p.m., next Tuesday, February 3, with a pick-your-own seat map with availability from last season's inventory. Phone and in-person orders will be available starting at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4.

SEASON TICKET RENEWALS: Fans who had season tickets last season have until the priority deadline of Friday, April 24, to keep their seat locations for next season.Season tickets continue to be the most affordable option for fans starting at just $35.71 per game. For the first time in three seasons, season ticket prices are increasing throughout the stadium. With a seven-game home schedule, the per-game price for most areas of the stadium is cheaper than the previous two years. 

Price increases support K-State Athletics in this new era of college athletics, helping cover the rising costs of goods and staffing and also reflect the overall increase in value in individual game tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KSUSeason tickets for the seven-game 2026 home campaign will go on sale on Tuesday, February 3.NEW ORDERS: Tickets will go on sale online only to the public beginning at 5 p.m., next Tuesday, February 3, with a pick-your-own seat map with availability from last season's inventory. Phone and in-person orders will be available starting at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4.SEASON TICKET RENEWALS: Fans who had season tickets last season have until the priority deadline of Friday, April 24, to keep their seat locations for next season.Season tickets continue to be the most affordable option for fans starting at just $35.71 per game. For the first time in three seasons, season ticket prices are increasing throughout the stadium. With a seven-game home schedule, the per-game price for most areas of the stadium is cheaper than the previous two years. Price increases support K-State Athletics in this new era of college athletics, helping cover the rising costs of goods and staffing and also reflect the overall increase in value in individual game tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State football tickets are about to go on sale

The Junction City High School varsity boys’ and girls’ wrestling teams will host a dual on Thursday night at the Blue Jay Event Center at Junction City High School. The dual will be against Salina South and will also serve as Senior Night for Junction City wrestlers.

Admission for the wrestling dual on Thursday is $7 for adults and $5 for students.
Junction City High School students will get in FREE with a valid JCHS student ID.

The varsity boys’ team will begin the dual at 5:00 p.m.

*An intermission will follow to recognize the JCHS seniors.

The varsity girls’ team will then compete at approximately 6:30 p.m. to conclude the dual.

Both Junction City and Salina South will have full lineups, resulting in 14 matches in each dual.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City High School varsity boys’ and girls’ wrestling teams will host a dual on Thursday night at the Blue Jay Event Center at Junction City High School. The dual will be against Salina South and will also serve as Senior Night for Junction City wrestlers.Admission for the wrestling dual on Thursday is $7 for adults and $5 for students.
Junction City High School students will get in FREE with a valid JCHS student ID.The varsity boys’ team will begin the dual at 5:00 p.m.*An intermission will follow to recognize the JCHS seniors.The varsity girls’ team will then compete at approximately 6:30 p.m. to conclude the dual.Both Junction City and Salina South will have full lineups, resulting in 14 matches in each dual.

Junction City boys and girls Wrestling set to host a Dual on Thursday night

On Tuesday night inside the Blue Jay Event Center at Junction City High School, the full program of Blue Jay basketball swept the Scots of Topeka Highland Park. The JCHS teams went 6-0, winning freshman through varsity games on both the boys’ and girls’ sides.

Girls recap – Junction City 53, Topeka HP 19

The Junction City Lady Jays won their second game of the season, handling the Scots from the opening tip. Junction City started the game on a 10-0 run, thanks to early baskets by sophomores Aniyah Henry-Rivers and Laniyah Warmack, along with Isabel Pruitt. Highland Park took a timeout with 5:13 to go in the first quarter, but the Lady Jays never let up. At the end of the first quarter, JCHS led 14-5.

The second quarter did not feature much scoring, and neither team was able to get going on the offensive end. Junction City led 22-8 at the half.

Third-quarter action is when the Lady Jays really hit their stride. Junction City sophomore Laniyah Warmack scored 15 of the 22 third-quarter points. Warmack converted many steals into layups and even connected on a corner three-pointer to cap off her excellent performance. The Lady Jays led 44-13 at the end of the third and had a continuously running clock in the fourth quarter over Highland Park.

Junction City won the game 53-19 and picked up their second win of the season, both of which have come on their home court.

Several players were involved in scoring the ball. Three players were in double digits; Laniyah Warmack had a career-high 24 points, while Aniyah Henry-Rivers and Isabel Pruitt both added 10 points.

*Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was Laniyah Warmack. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, she receives a free $20 meal coupon voucher from Blu Restaurant of Junction City, located at 602 N. Washington St.

Junction City moves to 2-12 on the year and will host Olathe East in girls-only action on Friday night at Junction City High School.

Boys recap – Junction City 76, Topeka HP 66

The Junction City Blue Jay boys basketball team got back in the win column Tuesday night, beating the Scots 76-66. The Blue Jays started the scoring with a corner three-pointer by senior Jett Thompson, and then JCHS kept that momentum going, jumping out to an early 10-1 lead. The Blue Jays were running up and down the floor and led by 14, 18-4, at the end of the first quarter.

In second-quarter action, Highland Park found their game as they began running up and down the floor and knocking down some three-pointers. For Junction City, Lovell Autry and Brody Boeckman led the way in scoring in the first half, and the Blue Jays held a 34-25 lead at the break.

Third-quarter action is when things tightened up. It was quite the show between #11 in white (Lovell Autry) and #11 in green (Jojo Kingcannon). Both players really took off in the third quarter, trading baskets and serving as true facilitators on the court. Junction City led 48-40 after a three-pointer in the corner by junior Khaliel Walker, but Highland Park quickly responded with a 9-2 run. The Blue Jays made two free throws to end the third quarter and led by four, 53-49, after three.

In the first three minutes of the fourth quarter, neither team could get a stop on the defensive end. Junction City led 62-60 before Jett Thompson hit a corner three-pointer, giving the Blue Jays a 65-60 lead. They were able to get a couple of stops down the stretch and held on to win 76-66.

Four players scored in double digits on Tuesday night for Junction City. Lovell Autry scored 26, Brody Boeckman scored 16, Jett Thompson added 13, and Jaycen Lanier finished with 10. A total of eight players scored for the Blue Jays. Topeka Highland Park was led in scoring by Kingcannon with 24 points.

*Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was Jett Thompson. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Jett receives a free $20 meal coupon voucher from Blu Restaurant of Junction City, located at 602 N. Washington St.

The Blue Jays move to 8-6 on the year with the win. They will play at Derby in boys-only action on Friday at 7:30 pm. As always, you can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostOn Tuesday night inside the Blue Jay Event Center at Junction City High School, the full program of Blue Jay basketball swept the Scots of Topeka Highland Park. The JCHS teams went 6-0, winning freshman through varsity games on both the boys’ and girls’ sides.Girls recap – Junction City 53, Topeka HP 19The Junction City Lady Jays won their second game of the season, handling the Scots from the opening tip. Junction City started the game on a 10-0 run, thanks to early baskets by sophomores Aniyah Henry-Rivers and Laniyah Warmack, along with Isabel Pruitt. Highland Park took a timeout with 5:13 to go in the first quarter, but the Lady Jays never let up. At the end of the first quarter, JCHS led 14-5.The second quarter did not feature much scoring, and neither team was able to get going on the offensive end. Junction City led 22-8 at the half.Third-quarter action is when the Lady Jays really hit their stride. Junction City sophomore Laniyah Warmack scored 15 of the 22 third-quarter points. Warmack converted many steals into layups and even connected on a corner three-pointer to cap off her excellent performance. The Lady Jays led 44-13 at the end of the third and had a continuously running clock in the fourth quarter over Highland Park.Junction City won the game 53-19 and picked up their second win of the season, both of which have come on their home court.Several players were involved in scoring the ball. Three players were in double digits; Laniyah Warmack had a career-high 24 points, while Aniyah Henry-Rivers and Isabel Pruitt both added 10 points.*Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was Laniyah Warmack. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, she receives a free $20 meal coupon voucher from Blu Restaurant of Junction City, located at 602 N. Washington St.Junction City moves to 2-12 on the year and will host Olathe East in girls-only action on Friday night at Junction City High School.Boys recap – Junction City 76, Topeka HP 66The Junction City Blue Jay boys basketball team got back in the win column Tuesday night, beating the Scots 76-66. The Blue Jays started the scoring with a corner three-pointer by senior Jett Thompson, and then JCHS kept that momentum going, jumping out to an early 10-1 lead. The Blue Jays were running up and down the floor and led by 14, 18-4, at the end of the first quarter.In second-quarter action, Highland Park found their game as they began running up and down the floor and knocking down some three-pointers. For Junction City, Lovell Autry and Brody Boeckman led the way in scoring in the first half, and the Blue Jays held a 34-25 lead at the break.Third-quarter action is when things tightened up. It was quite the show between #11 in white (Lovell Autry) and #11 in green (Jojo Kingcannon). Both players really took off in the third quarter, trading baskets and serving as true facilitators on the court. Junction City led 48-40 after a three-pointer in the corner by junior Khaliel Walker, but Highland Park quickly responded with a 9-2 run. The Blue Jays made two free throws to end the third quarter and led by four, 53-49, after three.In the first three minutes of the fourth quarter, neither team could get a stop on the defensive end. Junction City led 62-60 before Jett Thompson hit a corner three-pointer, giving the Blue Jays a 65-60 lead. They were able to get a couple of stops down the stretch and held on to win 76-66.Four players scored in double digits on Tuesday night for Junction City. Lovell Autry scored 26, Brody Boeckman scored 16, Jett Thompson added 13, and Jaycen Lanier finished with 10. A total of eight players scored for the Blue Jays. Topeka Highland Park was led in scoring by Kingcannon with 24 points.*Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was Jett Thompson. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Jett receives a free $20 meal coupon voucher from Blu Restaurant of Junction City, located at 602 N. Washington St.The Blue Jays move to 8-6 on the year with the win. They will play at Derby in boys-only action on Friday at 7:30 pm. As always, you can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK.

Junction City 🏀 sweeps Topeka Highland Park on Tuesday night

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) — Honor Huff scored 17 points and Treysen Eaglestaff scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds and West Virginia beat Kansas State 59-54 on Tuesday night.

Brenen Lorient scored 10 points for West Virginia (14-7, 5-3 Big 12), which has won three of four and six of its last nine games. It was the third fewest points scored this season for Kansas State.

P.J. Haggerty scored 16 points, David Castillo scored 15 points and Nate Johnson 13 for Kansas State (10-11, 1-7). The Wildcats have lost seven of their last eight.

West Virginia led 57-54 with 22 seconds left before the Jayhawks intentionally fouled Huff. He missed the front end of a one-and-one and Kansas State took possession.

Lorient blocked Haggerty's layup attempt with 14 seconds left. Kansas State maintained possession but Haggerty's 3-point attempt with 10 seconds left was off the mark.

Taj Manning fouled Huff and he made both foul shots with eight seconds left to seal the win.

Kansas State: Hosts No. 8 Iowa State on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769569866855.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) — Honor Huff scored 17 points and Treysen Eaglestaff scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds and West Virginia beat Kansas State 59-54 on Tuesday night.Brenen Lorient scored 10 points for West Virginia (14-7, 5-3 Big 12), which has won three of four and six of its last nine games. It was the third fewest points scored this season for Kansas State.P.J. Haggerty scored 16 points, David Castillo scored 15 points and Nate Johnson 13 for Kansas State (10-11, 1-7). The Wildcats have lost seven of their last eight.West Virginia led 57-54 with 22 seconds left before the Jayhawks intentionally fouled Huff. He missed the front end of a one-and-one and Kansas State took possession.Lorient blocked Haggerty's layup attempt with 14 seconds left. Kansas State maintained possession but Haggerty's 3-point attempt with 10 seconds left was off the mark.Taj Manning fouled Huff and he made both foul shots with eight seconds left to seal the win.<h2>Up Next</h2>Kansas State: Hosts No. 8 Iowa State on Sunday.West Virginia: Hosts Baylor on Saturday.

🏀 Huff, Eaglestaff help lift West Virginia past Kansas State

Junction City High school boys and girls host Topeka-Highland Park tonight inside the Blue Jay Event Center.&nbsp;

Girls tip-off is at 6:00 pm, and the boys will follow at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;

You can hear both games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio or <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

You can watch the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/YXGhHDBrbT0?si=7PdvyzbMdx1if1fL">girls livestream produced by BlueJayMedia produced here.&nbsp;</a>

You can watch the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/9EXIBWmAA8Y?si=tjfqghKK0Bvc-rsJ">boys livestream BlueJayMedia produced here.</a>

Junction City High school boys and girls host Topeka-Highland Park tonight inside the Blue Jay Event Center.&nbsp;Girls tip-off is at 6:00 pm, and the boys will follow at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;You can hear both games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio or <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>You can watch the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/YXGhHDBrbT0?si=7PdvyzbMdx1if1fL">girls livestream produced by BlueJayMedia produced here.&nbsp;</a>You can watch the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/9EXIBWmAA8Y?si=tjfqghKK0Bvc-rsJ">boys livestream BlueJayMedia produced here.</a>

🏀 WATCH / LISTEN LIVE: Junction City boys and girls host Topeka Highland Park. 

SEATTLE (AP) — Sam Darnold threw for three touchdowns, the Seahawks’ “Dark Side” defense came up with a critical fourth-down stop, and Seattle advanced to the Super Bowl, beating the Los Angeles Rams 31-27 in an electrifying NFC championship game on Sunday.

Led by second-year coach Mike Macdonald and Darnold — an eight-year veteran playing for his fifth team — the Seahawks (16-3) reached the fourth Super Bowl in franchise history and first in 11 years. Seattle lost that most recent appearance to New England, its opponent in two weeks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

With Los Angeles (14-6) facing fourth-and-4 at the Seattle 6, coach Sean McVay elected to go for it and Matthew Stafford’s pass was&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2015612455158976655" target="_blank">broken up in the end zone</a>&nbsp;by Devon Witherspoon. The Rams didn’t get the ball back until there were 25 seconds left, and Puka Nacua was tackled inbounds near midfield on the final play.

Stafford threw for 374 yards and three touchdowns, but the Rams were undone by critical errors, including a muffed punt by Xavier Smith in the third quarter. On the next play, Darnold connected with Jake Bobo for a 17-yard touchdown and a 24-13 lead.

Darnold, who flopped in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/seahawks-sam-darnold-bye-playoffs-489ae91973a720c23bdbadb54676785e">playoff debut last season</a>&nbsp;with the Minnesota Vikings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/seahawks-darnold-injury-74267fccc18bb171a3858acdb3f4e7e1">played through an oblique injury</a>&nbsp;and completed 25 of 36 passes for 346 yards with no turnovers. Jaxon Smith-Njigba had 153 yards receiving — the second-most in a playoff game in franchise history — and a touchdown on 10 catches.

“It’s amazing,” Darnold said. “To be able to do it with these guys in this locker room, though, with this coaching staff, that’s why it means the world to me.”

The Seahawks led 31-20 late in the third quarter on Darnold’s 13-yard TD pass to Cooper Kupp, but the Rams got back into the game when Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen was&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFLonFOX/status/2015606662904918099" target="_blank">flagged for taunting</a>&nbsp;after breaking up a pass to Nacua on third-and-12, giving Los Angeles a first down.

On the next play, Stafford threw at Woolen again, and Nacua beat him in the corner of the end zone for a 34-yard touchdown.

The Rams forced a punt on Seattle’s next possession and went on a 14-play, 84-yard drive that came up empty thanks to Witherspoon’s pass breakup.

Seattle stayed aggressive on its final possession, with Darnold throwing for three first downs to run out most of the clock.

Davante Adams and Kyren Williams had receiving TDs for the Rams, and Kenneth Walker III rushed for a score for the Seahawks.

Rams: WR Jordan Whittington (chest) left in the third quarter. Defensive end Kobie Turner (cramps) also exited in the third.

Seahawks: LB Drake Thomas (shoulder) left in the fourth quarter. FB Brady Russell (hand) was injured in the second half and did not return.

Rams: Stafford turns 38 next month and has to wonder if this was his last, best chance at a second Super Bowl title.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769399039128.png" alt="eattle Seahawks’ Dareke Young (83) celebrates after recovering a fumble by Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Xavier Smith during a punt return during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)" />
 <figcaption>eattle Seahawks’ Dareke Young (83) celebrates after recovering a fumble by Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Xavier Smith during a punt return during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — Sam Darnold threw for three touchdowns, the Seahawks’ “Dark Side” defense came up with a critical fourth-down stop, and Seattle advanced to the Super Bowl, beating the Los Angeles Rams 31-27 in an electrifying NFC championship game on Sunday.Led by second-year coach Mike Macdonald and Darnold — an eight-year veteran playing for his fifth team — the Seahawks (16-3) reached the fourth Super Bowl in franchise history and first in 11 years. Seattle lost that most recent appearance to New England, its opponent in two weeks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.With Los Angeles (14-6) facing fourth-and-4 at the Seattle 6, coach Sean McVay elected to go for it and Matthew Stafford’s pass was&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2015612455158976655" target="_blank">broken up in the end zone</a>&nbsp;by Devon Witherspoon. The Rams didn’t get the ball back until there were 25 seconds left, and Puka Nacua was tackled inbounds near midfield on the final play.Stafford threw for 374 yards and three touchdowns, but the Rams were undone by critical errors, including a muffed punt by Xavier Smith in the third quarter. On the next play, Darnold connected with Jake Bobo for a 17-yard touchdown and a 24-13 lead.Darnold, who flopped in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/seahawks-sam-darnold-bye-playoffs-489ae91973a720c23bdbadb54676785e">playoff debut last season</a>&nbsp;with the Minnesota Vikings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/seahawks-darnold-injury-74267fccc18bb171a3858acdb3f4e7e1">played through an oblique injury</a>&nbsp;and completed 25 of 36 passes for 346 yards with no turnovers. Jaxon Smith-Njigba had 153 yards receiving — the second-most in a playoff game in franchise history — and a touchdown on 10 catches.“It’s amazing,” Darnold said. “To be able to do it with these guys in this locker room, though, with this coaching staff, that’s why it means the world to me.”The Seahawks led 31-20 late in the third quarter on Darnold’s 13-yard TD pass to Cooper Kupp, but the Rams got back into the game when Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen was&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFLonFOX/status/2015606662904918099" target="_blank">flagged for taunting</a>&nbsp;after breaking up a pass to Nacua on third-and-12, giving Los Angeles a first down.On the next play, Stafford threw at Woolen again, and Nacua beat him in the corner of the end zone for a 34-yard touchdown.The Rams forced a punt on Seattle’s next possession and went on a 14-play, 84-yard drive that came up empty thanks to Witherspoon’s pass breakup.Seattle stayed aggressive on its final possession, with Darnold throwing for three first downs to run out most of the clock.Davante Adams and Kyren Williams had receiving TDs for the Rams, and Kenneth Walker III rushed for a score for the Seahawks.<h2>Injuries</h2>Rams: WR Jordan Whittington (chest) left in the third quarter. Defensive end Kobie Turner (cramps) also exited in the third.Seahawks: LB Drake Thomas (shoulder) left in the fourth quarter. FB Brady Russell (hand) was injured in the second half and did not return.<h2>Up next</h2>Rams: Stafford turns 38 next month and has to wonder if this was his last, best chance at a second Super Bowl title.

🏈 Sam Darnold and Seahawks advance to Super Bowl with thrilling win over Rams in NFC title game

DENVER (AP) — Drake Maye handled the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/patriots-broncos-afc-title-game-b1f16622fe4e7d14f4558e40ce5afe7a">sloppy, snowy conditions</a>&nbsp;better than the home team and he scored New England’s only touchdown on a 6-yard keeper, propelling the Patriots to their 12th Super Bowl with a 10-7 win over the Denver Broncos in the AFC championship game Sunday.

Maye threw for just 86 yards, but ran for 65 and iced the win with a 7-yard keeper on third-and-5 in the waning minutes to send the Patriots (17-3) to the Super Bowl in Mike Vrabel’s first year as coach.

The Patriots will play the winner of the NFC championship game between the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl on Feb. 8 in Santa Clara, California.

“I’m just proud of this team,” said the 23-year-old Maye, who’s the second-youngest starting quarterback to reach the Super Bowl, behind only Miami’s Dan Marino. “Don’t have many words. Just thankful for this team. Love each and every one of them. It took everybody.”

Christian Gonzalez intercepted Jarrett Stidham, starting in place of an injured Bo Nix, with 2:11 remaining for New England’s second takeaway. The first set up the Patriots with a short field and led to Maye’s touchdown scamper that tied it at 7 heading into halftime.

With Nix looking on from a suite following ankle surgery Tuesday in Alabama, Stidham made his first start in more than two years. His first completion since the 2023 regular-season finale was a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Broncos/status/2015518892354117789?s=20" target="_blank">52-yard dart</a>&nbsp;to Marvin Mims Jr. to the New England 7 that set up&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Broncos/status/2015519475064541595?s=20" target="_blank">Courtland Sutton’s 6-yard touchdown catch</a>.

That was Stidham’s highlight as he turned the ball over twice and finished 17 of 31 for 133 yards with the TD.

“I was super excited for the opportunity and just hate that we fell short,” Stidham said.

New England, which went 4-13 last year under Jerod Mayo, became the third team in the Super Bowl era to win a conference championship with 10 points or less. Buffalo beat Denver 10-7 in the 1991 AFC title game, and Los Angeles beat Tampa Bay 9-0 in the 1979 NFC championship game.

Vrabel, who won three Super Bowls as a playmaking linebacker for the Patriots, could become the first person in NFL history to also win as a head coach for the same franchise.

“I won’t win it. It’ll be the players that’ll win the game,” Vrabel said. “I promise you, it won’t be me that’ll win it, and I promise you that I’ll do everything I can, and our staff, to have them ready for the game.”

The Broncos (15-4) finished one step shy of fulfilling Sean Payton’s preseason prediction of a trip to Super Bowl 60, and he pointed the finger right at himself.

He said he regretted his call on fourth-and-1 from the New England 14 in the second quarter when a chip-shot field goal before the snow came in would have given Denver a double-digit lead. Stidham’s throw to running back R.J. Harvey was incomplete and the Broncos’ early momentum vanished.

“There’s always regrets,” Payton said. “Yeah, I mean, look, I felt like here we are, fourth-and-1. We felt close enough ... So, yeah, there’ll always be second thoughts.”

The Broncos were left clinging to a 7-0 lead that was short-lived. Elijah Ponder recovered&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Patriots/status/2015532622156636284?s=20" target="_blank">Stidham’s backward pass</a>&nbsp;at the Denver 12, setting up the tying touchdown two plays later.

“I thought I threw it forward and obviously the replay said differently,” Stidham said. “Probably should have just eaten the sack and let (Jeremy) Crawshaw punt the ball and flip the field.”

Both kickers missed two field goals in the frigid conditions with Denver’s Wil Lutz and New England’s Andy Borregales wide on long tries just before the snow came in at halftime. Lutz’s 45-yard attempt late in the fourth quarter was tipped by Leonard Taylor III.

The Patriots’ victory was their 40th in the playoffs, breaking a tie with the San Francisco 49ers for the most in NFL history.

It was sunny at kickoff with a temperature of 26 degrees, but by halftime the snowflakes began falling and grounds crews had to use snowblowers to mark the hashmarks and yard lines by the fourth quarter, when it was 16 degrees.

“It was a lot of fun out there,” Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II said. “Snow game, for the conference, to go to the Super Bowl — it doesn’t get any better than that. I felt like I was a little kid out there just playing in the snow.”

And the Patriots had the most fun of all.

“What an atmosphere out here,” said Maye, in his second NFL season. “Battle of the elements. Love this team. How about the defense? I love each and every one of them.”

The Patriots have allowed 26 points across three playoff games. The only team to allow fewer points over three playoff games before a Super Bowl appearance was the 2000 Ravens, who allowed just 16 points.

After gaining just 72 yards in the first half, the Patriots opened the second half in swirling snow with a 16-play, 64-yard drive that ate up 9 1/2 minutes and ended with a 23-yard field goal by Borregales that proved the difference.

Stidham, who was drafted by the Patriots in 2019, made his first start since the 2023 regular-season finale. The Broncos were the only team in the league that didn’t give their backup QB any snaps or handoffs the last two seasons.

The Patriots have averaged 18 points per game in the playoffs, the fewest by any team to make the Super Bowl since the 1979 Rams, who averaged 15.

“I’ll take an ugly win before I take a pretty loss,” Diggs said. “Nobody’s satisfied. Happy, but not complacent. We’re blessed to be where we are, but we know there’s more out there for us.”

Coming up just short of a trip to the Super Bowl will drive Denver, said Surtain, who suggested: “This is not the last time we’re going to be here. We’re going to just keep on building and getting better.”

Nix, who had 11 game-winning drives in his first two NFL seasons, got hurt on Denver’s final drive in overtime against Buffalo last week, and this title game will always be dogged in Denver by the what-ifs.

“It (stinks),” linebacker Alex Singleton said. “We’ll remember it for the rest of our lives.”

Patriots: LB Robert Spillane (ankle) left in the first quarter.

Broncos: WR Pat Bryant left with a hamstring injury in the second quarter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769427461444.jpeg" alt="New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) hands off against the Denver Broncos during the second half of the AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)" />
 <figcaption>New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) hands off against the Denver Broncos during the second half of the AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)</figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Drake Maye handled the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/patriots-broncos-afc-title-game-b1f16622fe4e7d14f4558e40ce5afe7a">sloppy, snowy conditions</a>&nbsp;better than the home team and he scored New England’s only touchdown on a 6-yard keeper, propelling the Patriots to their 12th Super Bowl with a 10-7 win over the Denver Broncos in the AFC championship game Sunday.Maye threw for just 86 yards, but ran for 65 and iced the win with a 7-yard keeper on third-and-5 in the waning minutes to send the Patriots (17-3) to the Super Bowl in Mike Vrabel’s first year as coach.The Patriots will play the winner of the NFC championship game between the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl on Feb. 8 in Santa Clara, California.“I’m just proud of this team,” said the 23-year-old Maye, who’s the second-youngest starting quarterback to reach the Super Bowl, behind only Miami’s Dan Marino. “Don’t have many words. Just thankful for this team. Love each and every one of them. It took everybody.”Christian Gonzalez intercepted Jarrett Stidham, starting in place of an injured Bo Nix, with 2:11 remaining for New England’s second takeaway. The first set up the Patriots with a short field and led to Maye’s touchdown scamper that tied it at 7 heading into halftime.With Nix looking on from a suite following ankle surgery Tuesday in Alabama, Stidham made his first start in more than two years. His first completion since the 2023 regular-season finale was a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Broncos/status/2015518892354117789?s=20" target="_blank">52-yard dart</a>&nbsp;to Marvin Mims Jr. to the New England 7 that set up&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Broncos/status/2015519475064541595?s=20" target="_blank">Courtland Sutton’s 6-yard touchdown catch</a>.That was Stidham’s highlight as he turned the ball over twice and finished 17 of 31 for 133 yards with the TD.“I was super excited for the opportunity and just hate that we fell short,” Stidham said.New England, which went 4-13 last year under Jerod Mayo, became the third team in the Super Bowl era to win a conference championship with 10 points or less. Buffalo beat Denver 10-7 in the 1991 AFC title game, and Los Angeles beat Tampa Bay 9-0 in the 1979 NFC championship game.Vrabel, who won three Super Bowls as a playmaking linebacker for the Patriots, could become the first person in NFL history to also win as a head coach for the same franchise.“I won’t win it. It’ll be the players that’ll win the game,” Vrabel said. “I promise you, it won’t be me that’ll win it, and I promise you that I’ll do everything I can, and our staff, to have them ready for the game.”The Broncos (15-4) finished one step shy of fulfilling Sean Payton’s preseason prediction of a trip to Super Bowl 60, and he pointed the finger right at himself.He said he regretted his call on fourth-and-1 from the New England 14 in the second quarter when a chip-shot field goal before the snow came in would have given Denver a double-digit lead. Stidham’s throw to running back R.J. Harvey was incomplete and the Broncos’ early momentum vanished.“There’s always regrets,” Payton said. “Yeah, I mean, look, I felt like here we are, fourth-and-1. We felt close enough ... So, yeah, there’ll always be second thoughts.”The Broncos were left clinging to a 7-0 lead that was short-lived. Elijah Ponder recovered&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Patriots/status/2015532622156636284?s=20" target="_blank">Stidham’s backward pass</a>&nbsp;at the Denver 12, setting up the tying touchdown two plays later.“I thought I threw it forward and obviously the replay said differently,” Stidham said. “Probably should have just eaten the sack and let (Jeremy) Crawshaw punt the ball and flip the field.”Both kickers missed two field goals in the frigid conditions with Denver’s Wil Lutz and New England’s Andy Borregales wide on long tries just before the snow came in at halftime. Lutz’s 45-yard attempt late in the fourth quarter was tipped by Leonard Taylor III.The Patriots’ victory was their 40th in the playoffs, breaking a tie with the San Francisco 49ers for the most in NFL history.It was sunny at kickoff with a temperature of 26 degrees, but by halftime the snowflakes began falling and grounds crews had to use snowblowers to mark the hashmarks and yard lines by the fourth quarter, when it was 16 degrees.“It was a lot of fun out there,” Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II said. “Snow game, for the conference, to go to the Super Bowl — it doesn’t get any better than that. I felt like I was a little kid out there just playing in the snow.”And the Patriots had the most fun of all.“What an atmosphere out here,” said Maye, in his second NFL season. “Battle of the elements. Love this team. How about the defense? I love each and every one of them.”The Patriots have allowed 26 points across three playoff games. The only team to allow fewer points over three playoff games before a Super Bowl appearance was the 2000 Ravens, who allowed just 16 points.After gaining just 72 yards in the first half, the Patriots opened the second half in swirling snow with a 16-play, 64-yard drive that ate up 9 1/2 minutes and ended with a 23-yard field goal by Borregales that proved the difference.Stidham, who was drafted by the Patriots in 2019, made his first start since the 2023 regular-season finale. The Broncos were the only team in the league that didn’t give their backup QB any snaps or handoffs the last two seasons.The Patriots have averaged 18 points per game in the playoffs, the fewest by any team to make the Super Bowl since the 1979 Rams, who averaged 15.“I’ll take an ugly win before I take a pretty loss,” Diggs said. “Nobody’s satisfied. Happy, but not complacent. We’re blessed to be where we are, but we know there’s more out there for us.”Coming up just short of a trip to the Super Bowl will drive Denver, said Surtain, who suggested: “This is not the last time we’re going to be here. We’re going to just keep on building and getting better.”Nix, who had 11 game-winning drives in his first two NFL seasons, got hurt on Denver’s final drive in overtime against Buffalo last week, and this title game will always be dogged in Denver by the what-ifs.“It (stinks),” linebacker Alex Singleton said. “We’ll remember it for the rest of our lives.”<h2>Injuries</h2>Patriots: LB Robert Spillane (ankle) left in the first quarter.Broncos: WR Pat Bryant left with a hamstring injury in the second quarter.—

🏈 Patriots punch ticket to 12th Super Bowl with gritty win over Broncos in snowy Denver

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 21 points and 10 rebounds, Elmarko Jackson added 19 points, and No. 19 Kansas overcame the absence of standout guard Darryn Peterson with a big finishing kick for an 86-62 win over Kansas State on Saturday night.

Melvin Council Jr. contributed 17 points and Bryson Tiller had 16 for the Jayhawks (15-5, 5-2 Big 12), who ended the game on a 27-7 run in the return to the sideline for coach Bill Self, who had missed their previous game because of a health-related issue.

Peterson, one of the nation's best freshmen, had been on a tear after finally overcoming a series of cramping issues. But the Jayhawks' high-scoring guard was sidelined against Kansas State after spraining his ankle in Tuesday night's win over Colorado.

P.J. Haggerty had 18 of his 23 points in the second half to lead the Wildcats (10-10, 1-6). Andrej Kostic added 12 points.

Kansas State was short-handed, too. Khamari McGriff and fellow forward Mobi Ikegwuruka have been out with injuries, while starting guard Abdi Bashir remains sidelined after undergoing surgery to repair a stress fracture in his foot.

Kostic was among those pressed into more minutes. And the freshman from Serbia delivered right away, hitting four 3-pointers in a span of about four minutes in the first half, helping to keep the Wildcats within 37-35 at the break.

Kansas was still clinging to a 59-55 lead after Haggerty's 3-pointer with 7:50 to go, but Bidunga proceeded to score seven points during a 15-3 run. It was highlighted by a rim-rattling ally-oop dunk by Bidunga that helped to put the game away.

The Jayhawks won their fourth straight game while snapping a three-game skid against Kansas State in Manhattan. They also have won 16 of the past 20 overall in the second-longest active rivalry played in Division I men's basketball.

Kansas plays No. 13 BYU at Allen Fieldhouse next Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769310979047.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 21 points and 10 rebounds, Elmarko Jackson added 19 points, and No. 19 Kansas overcame the absence of standout guard Darryn Peterson with a big finishing kick for an 86-62 win over Kansas State on Saturday night.Melvin Council Jr. contributed 17 points and Bryson Tiller had 16 for the Jayhawks (15-5, 5-2 Big 12), who ended the game on a 27-7 run in the return to the sideline for coach Bill Self, who had missed their previous game because of a health-related issue.Peterson, one of the nation's best freshmen, had been on a tear after finally overcoming a series of cramping issues. But the Jayhawks' high-scoring guard was sidelined against Kansas State after spraining his ankle in Tuesday night's win over Colorado.P.J. Haggerty had 18 of his 23 points in the second half to lead the Wildcats (10-10, 1-6). Andrej Kostic added 12 points.Kansas State was short-handed, too. Khamari McGriff and fellow forward Mobi Ikegwuruka have been out with injuries, while starting guard Abdi Bashir remains sidelined after undergoing surgery to repair a stress fracture in his foot.Kostic was among those pressed into more minutes. And the freshman from Serbia delivered right away, hitting four 3-pointers in a span of about four minutes in the first half, helping to keep the Wildcats within 37-35 at the break.Kansas was still clinging to a 59-55 lead after Haggerty's 3-pointer with 7:50 to go, but Bidunga proceeded to score seven points during a 15-3 run. It was highlighted by a rim-rattling ally-oop dunk by Bidunga that helped to put the game away.The Jayhawks won their fourth straight game while snapping a three-game skid against Kansas State in Manhattan. They also have won 16 of the past 20 overall in the second-longest active rivalry played in Division I men's basketball.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas plays No. 13 BYU at Allen Fieldhouse next Saturday.

🏀 Sunflower Showdown: KU finishes on 27-7 run to beat K- State 

Recap – Olathe South 57, Junction City 51

In the championship game of the 53rd annual Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament, the Olathe South Falcons beat the Junction City Blue Jays 57–51.

Olathe South won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City immediately followed with back-to-back baskets and led 4–2 early. The Falcons then went on a run for the rest of the first quarter and finished the period with a layup at the buzzer to lead 20–9 at the end of the first quarter.

In second-quarter action, both teams’ defenses settled in, and Olathe South led 29–19 at halftime.

The third quarter is when the Falcons took off. Olathe South started the quarter on a 9–2 run and jumped out to a 17-point lead at 38–21. The Blue Jays’ shots were not falling, and Olathe South was outrebounding Junction City on both ends of the floor. The Falcons held that 17-point lead and went up 42–25 at the end of three.

In the fourth quarter, Olathe South grew the lead to 20 points at 47–27 with six minutes to go. Junction City head coach Easton Burgardt called a timeout to try to rally the Blue Jays, who then trailed 51–32. The timeout worked. The Blue Jays went on a huge run thanks to full-court pressure and defense leading to offense. Junction City got several steals down the stretch and cut the lead to five, trailing 53–48 with 1:04 to go in the game. The Blue Jays played the foul game down the stretch, and the Falcons missed both free throws. Junction City had a chance to cut the deficit to one possession, but the Blue Jays could not convert, and Olathe South then made its next four free throws. The Falcons won 57–51 and captured their third mid-season tournament championship in Spring Hill. Junction City placed second in the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament for the second time.

Junction City’s Lovell Autry finished with 18 points, while Khaliel Walker added 12 points, the only two Blue Jays in double digits.

The Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was senior Jackson Hollie, who scored six points. Hollie played well on both ends of the floor and grabbed several rebounds for the Blue Jays. (For being the Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Jackson Hollie receives a $20 free meal coupon to Blu Restaurant, located at 602 N. Washington in Junction City.)

Junction City falls to 7–6 on the year and will host Topeka-Highland Park on Tuesday at the Blue Jay Event Center.

In the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament, Junction City had two players earn All-Tournament honors.

Senior Lovell Autry and junior Brody Boeckman were both selected to the All-Tournament Team. Autry scored in double digits in all three games, and Boeckman scored in double digits in two of the three games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769221615383.jpeg" alt="Junction City Boys basketball coach Easton Burgardt draws up a play in the Championship game at the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament." />
 <figcaption>Junction City Boys basketball coach Easton Burgardt draws up a play in the Championship game at the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostRecap – Olathe South 57, Junction City 51In the championship game of the 53rd annual Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament, the Olathe South Falcons beat the Junction City Blue Jays 57–51.Olathe South won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City immediately followed with back-to-back baskets and led 4–2 early. The Falcons then went on a run for the rest of the first quarter and finished the period with a layup at the buzzer to lead 20–9 at the end of the first quarter.In second-quarter action, both teams’ defenses settled in, and Olathe South led 29–19 at halftime.The third quarter is when the Falcons took off. Olathe South started the quarter on a 9–2 run and jumped out to a 17-point lead at 38–21. The Blue Jays’ shots were not falling, and Olathe South was outrebounding Junction City on both ends of the floor. The Falcons held that 17-point lead and went up 42–25 at the end of three.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769222837730.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>In the fourth quarter, Olathe South grew the lead to 20 points at 47–27 with six minutes to go. Junction City head coach Easton Burgardt called a timeout to try to rally the Blue Jays, who then trailed 51–32. The timeout worked. The Blue Jays went on a huge run thanks to full-court pressure and defense leading to offense. Junction City got several steals down the stretch and cut the lead to five, trailing 53–48 with 1:04 to go in the game. The Blue Jays played the foul game down the stretch, and the Falcons missed both free throws. Junction City had a chance to cut the deficit to one possession, but the Blue Jays could not convert, and Olathe South then made its next four free throws. The Falcons won 57–51 and captured their third mid-season tournament championship in Spring Hill. Junction City placed second in the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament for the second time.Junction City’s Lovell Autry finished with 18 points, while Khaliel Walker added 12 points, the only two Blue Jays in double digits.The Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was senior Jackson Hollie, who scored six points. Hollie played well on both ends of the floor and grabbed several rebounds for the Blue Jays. (For being the Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Jackson Hollie receives a $20 free meal coupon to Blu Restaurant, located at 602 N. Washington in Junction City.)Junction City falls to 7–6 on the year and will host Topeka-Highland Park on Tuesday at the Blue Jay Event Center.Mid-Season Tournament HonorsIn the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament, Junction City had two players earn All-Tournament honors.Senior Lovell Autry and junior Brody Boeckman were both selected to the All-Tournament Team. Autry scored in double digits in all three games, and Boeckman scored in double digits in two of the three games.

Blue Jays finish 2nd in Spring Hill Tournament, Two Players earn Honors

The Junction City Blue Jays are playing in the 53rd annual Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament Championship game today.&nbsp;

Junction City (7-5) vs Olathe South (7-6). Both teams went 2-0 in pool play. *The championship game will be played at 3:00 p.m.&nbsp;

You can hear the championship game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio. You can also <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">hear the game by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

Junction City is looking for their first Spring Hill Invitational Tournament championship. Olathe South has won two championships, including in 2024, when they beat the Blue Jays 64-55 in the championship game at Spring Hill High School.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays are playing in the 53rd annual Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament Championship game today.&nbsp;Junction City (7-5) vs Olathe South (7-6). Both teams went 2-0 in pool play. *The championship game will be played at 3:00 p.m.&nbsp;You can hear the championship game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio. You can also <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">hear the game by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>Junction City is looking for their first Spring Hill Invitational Tournament championship. Olathe South has won two championships, including in 2024, when they beat the Blue Jays 64-55 in the championship game at Spring Hill High School.&nbsp;

🏀 LISTEN LIVE: Junction City vs Olathe South in Mid-Season Tournament Championship Game

&nbsp;Recap: Junction City 54, Gardner-Edgerton 52 (OT)

The Junction City Blue Jays beat the Gardner-Edgerton Trailblazers 54–52 in overtime in the second game of pool play in the Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament.

The Blue Jays jumped out to an early 6–0 lead and forced an early timeout by the Trailblazers. JC led by five at the end of the first quarter, 11–6.

In the second quarter, Junction City struggled to find any offense for the first six minutes. Junction City led 15–11 with two minutes to go in the half when junior Khaliel Walker hit a contested shot and was fouled. He converted the three-point play.

JCHS ended the half on a high point. Junior big man Brody Boeckman caught the ball at the foul line, spun around, and dunked the ball with two hands. On the next possession, Walker hit a corner three-pointer as the first-half clock ran out, and the Blue Jays led 25–18 at the break.

In third-quarter action, Gardner-Edgerton made their comeback. They cut the deficit to two, trailing 30–28. Junction City then went on their own run and led by 10, their largest lead of the game, at 38–28. JC led 38–30 after three quarters.

In fourth-quarter action, the Trailblazers made a furious comeback and even led by one point with 1:30 to go in the game. JC tied the game at 44–44 and then had a chance to win the game in regulation but was unable to convert, and the game went into overtime.

Gardner-Edgerton led 47–46 in overtime, but senior Lovell Autry nailed a clutch three-pointer and converted his free throws at the line, and the Blue Jays won the game 54–52 in OT.

In the game, Autry finished with 15 points, Boeckman finished with 11, and Walker added 10.

Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was junior defensive standout Angel Allen. He scored three points in the game but played great on the defensive end all game long. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Angel Allen received a free $20 meal coupon from Blu Restaurant, located at 602 N. Washington St. in Junction City.

With the win, Junction City finished 2–0 in pool play and will play Olathe South in the Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament championship game on Friday. The game will tip off at 3:00 p.m. You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.

By Anthony GorgesJC Post&nbsp;Recap: Junction City 54, Gardner-Edgerton 52 (OT)The Junction City Blue Jays beat the Gardner-Edgerton Trailblazers 54–52 in overtime in the second game of pool play in the Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament.The Blue Jays jumped out to an early 6–0 lead and forced an early timeout by the Trailblazers. JC led by five at the end of the first quarter, 11–6.In the second quarter, Junction City struggled to find any offense for the first six minutes. Junction City led 15–11 with two minutes to go in the half when junior Khaliel Walker hit a contested shot and was fouled. He converted the three-point play.JCHS ended the half on a high point. Junior big man Brody Boeckman caught the ball at the foul line, spun around, and dunked the ball with two hands. On the next possession, Walker hit a corner three-pointer as the first-half clock ran out, and the Blue Jays led 25–18 at the break.In third-quarter action, Gardner-Edgerton made their comeback. They cut the deficit to two, trailing 30–28. Junction City then went on their own run and led by 10, their largest lead of the game, at 38–28. JC led 38–30 after three quarters.In fourth-quarter action, the Trailblazers made a furious comeback and even led by one point with 1:30 to go in the game. JC tied the game at 44–44 and then had a chance to win the game in regulation but was unable to convert, and the game went into overtime.Gardner-Edgerton led 47–46 in overtime, but senior Lovell Autry nailed a clutch three-pointer and converted his free throws at the line, and the Blue Jays won the game 54–52 in OT.In the game, Autry finished with 15 points, Boeckman finished with 11, and Walker added 10.Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was junior defensive standout Angel Allen. He scored three points in the game but played great on the defensive end all game long. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Angel Allen received a free $20 meal coupon from Blu Restaurant, located at 602 N. Washington St. in Junction City.With the win, Junction City finished 2–0 in pool play and will play Olathe South in the Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament championship game on Friday. The game will tip off at 3:00 p.m. You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.

🏀 Blue Jays advance to Championship game in Spring Hill Invitational Tournament

Round Two of the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament - Junction City (6-5) vs Gardner-Edgerton (3-9) at Spring Hill High School.&nbsp;

You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio. You can also <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">listen live by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

Round Two of the Spring Hill Invitational Tournament - Junction City (6-5) vs Gardner-Edgerton (3-9) at Spring Hill High School.&nbsp;Tip-off at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio. You can also <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">listen live by clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

🏀 LISTEN LIVE: Junction City vs Gardner-Edgerton in Spring Hill Tournament 

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A seven-game home schedule, which includes five home contests in the first six games of the season, highlights Kansas State’s 2026 football schedule that was announced Wednesday by K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference.

The&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;era of K-State football opens with three-straight non-conference games inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium beginning on September 5, when the Wildcats host Nicholls. K-State then welcomes Washington State on September 12 for the first-ever meeting between the Wildcats and Cougars on the gridiron, while it closes non-conference play by hosting Tulane on September 19.

For the 22nd time in the 31-year history of the Big 12 – including the seventh time in the last nine years – K-State will begin conference play with a true road game when the Wildcats travel northeast to face Cincinnati on September 26. It will be K-State’s first visit to The Queen City since a 23-21 last-second victory in 1995.

Following its lone bye of the 2026 season, K-State returns for two-straight home games against Houston (October 10) and Kansas (October 17). The Wildcats are looking to win their second-consecutive home game over the Cougars, while they will be in search of their 18th-straight win over the Jayhawks.

The Wildcats’ only stretch with consecutive road games in 2026 closes out the month of October when they travel to face Arizona State on October 24 and Colorado on October 31. K-State plays at Arizona State for the sixth time ever but the first since 1989, while the Wildcats will play inside what is now known as Mountain America Stadium for the first time since a 31-14 victory over Michigan in the 2013 Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl. K-State returns to Boulder after a thrilling 31-28 win two years ago, and the Wildcats are playing on Halloween for the 17th time in program history and first since 2020.

<a>The month of November trades home and away games over the final four weeks of the season beginning with a contest against Oklahoma State on November 7 inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Last season, K-State became the first road team to win a game in the series with the Cowboys since 2020, and the series is tied, 19-19, in Manhattan.</a>

K-State hits the road for the penultimate time in 2026 when it plays at TCU on November 14. The Wildcats have won three-straight games over the Horned Frogs and six of the last seven dating back to 2019.

Kansas State’s Senior Day contest will be staged on November 21 when the Wildcats face Arizona. It is the third-straight year K-State has played U of A – with the home team winning the previous two contests – but this will be the first time the programs will meet as conference foes after a pair of previously scheduled non-conference games in 2024 and 2025.

The Wildcats conclude the 2026 regular season at Iowa State on November 28. K-State will be in search of their second win in Ames in the last five tries, while it is the third time in the last five trips to Iowa State that the game against the Cyclones serves as the regular-season finale.

The 2026 Big 12 Championship game will be held on Friday, December 4 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Information regarding season tickets for the 2026 football season will be announced next week.

<a>2026 K-STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (Dates Subject to Change)</a>

SEPTEMBER 5&nbsp;NICHOLLS&nbsp;MANHATTAN

SEPTEMBER 12&nbsp;WASHINGTON STATE&nbsp;MANHATTAN

SEPTEMBER 19&nbsp;TULANE&nbsp;MANHATTAN

OCTOBER 10&nbsp;HOUSTON*&nbsp;MANHATTAN

OCTOBER 17&nbsp;KANSAS*&nbsp;MANHATTAN

NOVEMBER 7&nbsp;OKLAHOMA STATE*&nbsp;MANHATTAN

NOVEMBER 21&nbsp;ARIZONA*&nbsp;MANHATTAN

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769013329831.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A seven-game home schedule, which includes five home contests in the first six games of the season, highlights Kansas State’s 2026 football schedule that was announced Wednesday by K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference.The&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;era of K-State football opens with three-straight non-conference games inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium beginning on September 5, when the Wildcats host Nicholls. K-State then welcomes Washington State on September 12 for the first-ever meeting between the Wildcats and Cougars on the gridiron, while it closes non-conference play by hosting Tulane on September 19.For the 22nd time in the 31-year history of the Big 12 – including the seventh time in the last nine years – K-State will begin conference play with a true road game when the Wildcats travel northeast to face Cincinnati on September 26. It will be K-State’s first visit to The Queen City since a 23-21 last-second victory in 1995.Following its lone bye of the 2026 season, K-State returns for two-straight home games against Houston (October 10) and Kansas (October 17). The Wildcats are looking to win their second-consecutive home game over the Cougars, while they will be in search of their 18th-straight win over the Jayhawks.The Wildcats’ only stretch with consecutive road games in 2026 closes out the month of October when they travel to face Arizona State on October 24 and Colorado on October 31. K-State plays at Arizona State for the sixth time ever but the first since 1989, while the Wildcats will play inside what is now known as Mountain America Stadium for the first time since a 31-14 victory over Michigan in the 2013 Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl. K-State returns to Boulder after a thrilling 31-28 win two years ago, and the Wildcats are playing on Halloween for the 17th time in program history and first since 2020.<a>The month of November trades home and away games over the final four weeks of the season beginning with a contest against Oklahoma State on November 7 inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Last season, K-State became the first road team to win a game in the series with the Cowboys since 2020, and the series is tied, 19-19, in Manhattan.</a>K-State hits the road for the penultimate time in 2026 when it plays at TCU on November 14. The Wildcats have won three-straight games over the Horned Frogs and six of the last seven dating back to 2019.Kansas State’s Senior Day contest will be staged on November 21 when the Wildcats face Arizona. It is the third-straight year K-State has played U of A – with the home team winning the previous two contests – but this will be the first time the programs will meet as conference foes after a pair of previously scheduled non-conference games in 2024 and 2025.The Wildcats conclude the 2026 regular season at Iowa State on November 28. K-State will be in search of their second win in Ames in the last five tries, while it is the third time in the last five trips to Iowa State that the game against the Cyclones serves as the regular-season finale.The 2026 Big 12 Championship game will be held on Friday, December 4 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.Information regarding season tickets for the 2026 football season will be announced next week.<a>2026 K-STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (Dates Subject to Change)</a>SEPTEMBER 5&nbsp;NICHOLLS&nbsp;MANHATTANSEPTEMBER 12&nbsp;WASHINGTON STATE&nbsp;MANHATTANSEPTEMBER 19&nbsp;TULANE&nbsp;MANHATTANSeptember 26 at Cincinnati*OCTOBER 10&nbsp;HOUSTON*&nbsp;MANHATTANOCTOBER 17&nbsp;KANSAS*&nbsp;MANHATTANOctober 24 at Arizona State*October 31 at Colorado*NOVEMBER 7&nbsp;OKLAHOMA STATE*&nbsp;MANHATTANNovember 14 at TCU* Fort Worth, TexasNOVEMBER 21&nbsp;ARIZONA*&nbsp;MANHATTANNovember 28 at Iowa State* Ames, Iowa

K-State, Big 12 announce 2026 football schedule

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Melvin Council Jr. scored 10 of his 18 points over the final 5:07 and No. 19 Kansas held off Colorado 75-69 on Tuesday night with assistant coach Jacque Vaughn leading the Jayhawks as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-self-kansas-hospital-health-b7707fa99739d475426a5f9b8c5def64">Bill Self</a>&nbsp;recovers from a precautionary trip to the hospital.

The Jayhawks (14-5, 4-2 Big 12) led 60-59 with 5:50 to play, but clamped down on defense. They kept Colorado scoreless for a three-minute stretch to pull away. Council was the offensive catalyst, putting an exclamation point on the game with an emphatic dunk.

Self did not make the trip after going to the hospital on Monday because he was not feeling well. He was released after receiving IV fluids. Self has missed several games in recent seasons due to heart issues.

Vaughn, who was brought on board last May, paced the sideline as the acting coach. He earned the win for Self, who's now 22-1 in his career against Colorado (12-7, 2-4).

Council had back-to-back layups that gave Kansas some separation after Colorado had a chance to take the lead. On one of his layups, Council stole the ball away from the inbounder while still out of bounds. It wasn’t called, which drew the ire of the crowd after a replay.

Tre White had 17 points 15 rebounds for Kansas for his fifth double-double this season. Darryn Peterson finished with 16 points, including a banked-in 3-pointer with 2:09 left. He hobbled to the bench in the second half after appearing to turn his left ankle, but returned.

The Jayhawks were coming off a big week, beating then-No. 2 Iowa State and Baylor to move back into the rankings.

Isaiah Johnson led Colorado with 19, while Barrington Hargress added 17. Colorado has dropped four in a row.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768994579162.jpeg" alt="Kansas guard Melvin Council Jr., left, looks to pass the ball as Colorado guard Isaiah Johnson, back right, and forward Bangot Dak defend in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas guard Melvin Council Jr., left, looks to pass the ball as Colorado guard Isaiah Johnson, back right, and forward Bangot Dak defend in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)</figcaption>
 </figure>BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Melvin Council Jr. scored 10 of his 18 points over the final 5:07 and No. 19 Kansas held off Colorado 75-69 on Tuesday night with assistant coach Jacque Vaughn leading the Jayhawks as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-self-kansas-hospital-health-b7707fa99739d475426a5f9b8c5def64">Bill Self</a>&nbsp;recovers from a precautionary trip to the hospital.The Jayhawks (14-5, 4-2 Big 12) led 60-59 with 5:50 to play, but clamped down on defense. They kept Colorado scoreless for a three-minute stretch to pull away. Council was the offensive catalyst, putting an exclamation point on the game with an emphatic dunk.Self did not make the trip after going to the hospital on Monday because he was not feeling well. He was released after receiving IV fluids. Self has missed several games in recent seasons due to heart issues.Vaughn, who was brought on board last May, paced the sideline as the acting coach. He earned the win for Self, who's now 22-1 in his career against Colorado (12-7, 2-4).Council had back-to-back layups that gave Kansas some separation after Colorado had a chance to take the lead. On one of his layups, Council stole the ball away from the inbounder while still out of bounds. It wasn’t called, which drew the ire of the crowd after a replay.Tre White had 17 points 15 rebounds for Kansas for his fifth double-double this season. Darryn Peterson finished with 16 points, including a banked-in 3-pointer with 2:09 left. He hobbled to the bench in the second half after appearing to turn his left ankle, but returned.The Jayhawks were coming off a big week, beating then-No. 2 Iowa State and Baylor to move back into the rankings.Isaiah Johnson led Colorado with 19, while Barrington Hargress added 17. Colorado has dropped four in a row.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: At Kansas State on Saturday.Colorado: Hosts UCF on Saturday.

🏀 Kansas beats Colorado with Bill Self missing from the bench

MANHATTAN, Kansas (AP) — PJ Haggerty poured in 34 points and gave Kansas State the lead in the final minute in an 81-78 win over Utah on Tuesday.

Haggerty’s jump shot with 39 seconds left gave the Wildcats (10-9, 1-5 Big 12) a two-point lead that they held onto for their first Big 12 win of the season. He was 15 of 29 to go with eight rebounds and two steals. David Castillo had 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Nate Johnson added 17 points, five rebounds and six assists.

Haggerty entered the game fourth in the country with 22.8 points per game, and as the first Wildcat to score in double figures over the first 18 games since Jacob Pullen in 2009-10. It’s his 14th game this season with 21 points or more. He scored 28 in the second half.

Terrence Brown had 33 points for the Utes (9-10, 1-5), shooting 14 of 24 with four steals. Seydou Traore scored 15 to go with six rebounds. Don McHenry added 15 points and six rebounds, but the career 80% free throw shooter went 2 of 5 at the stripe, costing the Utes in the final seconds.

Starting from the 5:32 mark, Haggerty and Brown each scored eight points, and were the only players to score until McHenry drew a foul with 11 seconds remaining. With a chance to tie the game at the line, he made 1 of 2 attempts.

Johnson made a pair of free throws on the other end, and Brown's game-tying 3-point attempt caromed off the rim as the buzzer sounded.

The Wildcats entered with a five-game losing streak, including two to top-10 opponents in No. 1 Arizona and then-No. 10 BYU.

The Utes will travel to Provo to face No. 13 BYU on Saturday.

The Wildcats host in-state rival, No. 19 Kansas on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768993063056.png" alt="K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kansas (AP) — PJ Haggerty poured in 34 points and gave Kansas State the lead in the final minute in an 81-78 win over Utah on Tuesday.Haggerty’s jump shot with 39 seconds left gave the Wildcats (10-9, 1-5 Big 12) a two-point lead that they held onto for their first Big 12 win of the season. He was 15 of 29 to go with eight rebounds and two steals. David Castillo had 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Nate Johnson added 17 points, five rebounds and six assists.Haggerty entered the game fourth in the country with 22.8 points per game, and as the first Wildcat to score in double figures over the first 18 games since Jacob Pullen in 2009-10. It’s his 14th game this season with 21 points or more. He scored 28 in the second half.Terrence Brown had 33 points for the Utes (9-10, 1-5), shooting 14 of 24 with four steals. Seydou Traore scored 15 to go with six rebounds. Don McHenry added 15 points and six rebounds, but the career 80% free throw shooter went 2 of 5 at the stripe, costing the Utes in the final seconds.Starting from the 5:32 mark, Haggerty and Brown each scored eight points, and were the only players to score until McHenry drew a foul with 11 seconds remaining. With a chance to tie the game at the line, he made 1 of 2 attempts.Johnson made a pair of free throws on the other end, and Brown's game-tying 3-point attempt caromed off the rim as the buzzer sounded.The Wildcats entered with a five-game losing streak, including two to top-10 opponents in No. 1 Arizona and then-No. 10 BYU.<h2>Up next</h2>The Utes will travel to Provo to face No. 13 BYU on Saturday.The Wildcats host in-state rival, No. 19 Kansas on Saturday.

🏀 Haggerty scores 34 as Kansas State holds off Utah

Recap - Junction City 77, Sumner Academy 53

Junction City and Sumner Academy tipped off the 53rd Annual Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament on Tuesday night. The Blue Jays won the opening tip, took an early lead, and never looked back.

Junction City senior Brody Boeckman scored the first six points of the game, all within four feet of the rim, as the Blue Jays cruised to a 77–53 victory in their first game of pool play. JC led 19–8 after the first quarter and expanded that advantage to an 18-point halftime lead at 41–23.

Throughout the game, Blue Jay head coach Easton Burgardt rotated through two different platoons of players. Junction City opened the second half on a 14–4 run to push the lead to 28 points at 55–27. Sumner Academy was never able to recover. JCHS led 63–35 at the end of the third quarter and went on to secure the 77–53 win.

The Blue Jays had four players score in double figures: Lovell Autry with 18 points, Khaliel Walker with 15 points, Brody Boeckman with 14 points, and Jaycen Lanier with 10 points. 

*Lanier led the charge throughout the second half, and the 10 points marked a career high for the junior. He was named our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Jaycen Lanier receives a $20 free meal voucher from Blu Restaurant in Junction City, located at 602 North Washington Street.

With the win, Junction City improves to 6–5 on the season and 1–0 in pool play at the Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament. The Blue Jays return to action Thursday at the mid-season tournament at 5:00 p.m. when they take on Gardner-Edgerton. As always, the game can be heard on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.

By Anthony Gorges
JC PostRecap - Junction City 77, Sumner Academy 53Junction City and Sumner Academy tipped off the 53rd Annual Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament on Tuesday night. The Blue Jays won the opening tip, took an early lead, and never looked back.Junction City senior Brody Boeckman scored the first six points of the game, all within four feet of the rim, as the Blue Jays cruised to a 77–53 victory in their first game of pool play. JC led 19–8 after the first quarter and expanded that advantage to an 18-point halftime lead at 41–23.Throughout the game, Blue Jay head coach Easton Burgardt rotated through two different platoons of players. Junction City opened the second half on a 14–4 run to push the lead to 28 points at 55–27. Sumner Academy was never able to recover. JCHS led 63–35 at the end of the third quarter and went on to secure the 77–53 win.The Blue Jays had four players score in double figures: Lovell Autry with 18 points, Khaliel Walker with 15 points, Brody Boeckman with 14 points, and Jaycen Lanier with 10 points. *Lanier led the charge throughout the second half, and the 10 points marked a career high for the junior. He was named our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game. For being our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Jaycen Lanier receives a $20 free meal voucher from Blu Restaurant in Junction City, located at 602 North Washington Street.With the win, Junction City improves to 6–5 on the season and 1–0 in pool play at the Spring Hill Invitational Basketball Tournament. The Blue Jays return to action Thursday at the mid-season tournament at 5:00 p.m. when they take on Gardner-Edgerton. As always, the game can be heard on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.

🏀 Junction City Blue Jays win first-round game at Spring Hill Tournament

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Fernando Mendoza lowered his pads into a defender, spun in a full circle, used his hand to keep his balance,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/espn/status/2013456653866201453">then launched himself horizontally</a>&nbsp;and reached the ball over the goal line — an Indiana touchdown and a ready-made poster pic for a title run straight from the movies.

The Heisman Trophy winner’s touchdown Monday night put an exclamation point on a 27-21 win over Miami that closed out an undefeated season and brought an improbable — maybe impossible? — national championship to a program that had known nothing but losing and indifference for almost 140 years.

“Let me tell you: We won the national championship at Indiana University. It can be done,” said coach Curt Cignetti, who took over a program with a nation-leading 713 losses and turned it into the game's biggest winner in the span of two years.

Cignetti, the 64-year-old coaching lifer, started it. Mendoza helped get the Hoosiers over the line. He finished with 186 yards passing, but it was that tackle-breaking, sprawled-out 12-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-4 with 9:18 left that defined this game — and the Hoosiers' season.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Fernando Mendoza lowered his pads into a defender, spun in a full circle, used his hand to keep his balance,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/espn/status/2013456653866201453">then launched himself horizontally</a>&nbsp;and reached the ball over the goal line — an Indiana touchdown and a ready-made poster pic for a title run straight from the movies.Maybe they’ll call it “Hoosiers.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768906574424.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Heisman Trophy winner’s touchdown Monday night put an exclamation point on a 27-21 win over Miami that closed out an undefeated season and brought an improbable — maybe impossible? — national championship to a program that had known nothing but losing and indifference for almost 140 years.“Let me tell you: We won the national championship at Indiana University. It can be done,” said coach Curt Cignetti, who took over a program with a nation-leading 713 losses and turned it into the game's biggest winner in the span of two years.Cignetti, the 64-year-old coaching lifer, started it. Mendoza helped get the Hoosiers over the line. He finished with 186 yards passing, but it was that tackle-breaking, sprawled-out 12-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-4 with 9:18 left that defined this game — and the Hoosiers' season.Indiana would not be denied.“I had to go airborne,” said Mendoza, who had his lip split and his arm bloodied by a ferocious Miami defense that sacked him three times and hit him many more. “I would die for my team.”Mendoza's TD gave Indiana a 24-14 lead — barely enough breathing room to hold off a frenzied charge by the hard-hitting Hurricanes — a team that barely made the College Football Playoff and barely showed up in the first half of the final before coming to life behind 112 yards and two scores from Mark Fletcher.“They're the best thing that happened to the University of Miami in 25 years,” said coach Mario Cristobal, who was part of the title run that put this colorful program on the map in the 1980s and '90s.The CFP trophy now heads to the most unlikely of places: Bloomington, Indiana — home of the college that famously boasts the most living alumni (805,000), including billionaire Mark Cuban and several thousand of his closest friends who packed Miami's home stadium and turned a title-game ticket into a $4,000-or-more splurge.“It's way up there, that's for damn sure,” Cuban said when asked where this ranked among the out-of-nowhere success stories he helped bankroll on his reality show “Shark Tank.”Indiana finished 16-0 — using the extra games afforded by the expanded 12-team playoff to match a perfect-season win total last compiled by Yale in 1894. President Donald Trump was in the stands for what he said “turned out to be a great game” after a slow start — Indiana led 10-0 at half.In a fitting bit of symmetry, this undefeated title comes 50 years after Bob Knight’s basketball team went 32-0 to win it all in that state’s favorite sport.That hasn’t happened since, and there’s already some thought that college football — in its evolving, money-soaked, name-image-likeness era — might not see a team like this again, either.Players like Mendoza — a transfer from Cal who grew up just a few miles away from Miami’s campus, “The U” — certainly don’t come around often.Two fourth-down gambles by Cignetti in the fourth quarter, after Fletcher’s second touchdown carved the Hurricanes' deficit to three, put the QB in position to shine.The first was a 19-yard-completion to Charlie Becker on a back-shoulder fade those guys have been perfecting all season. Four plays later came a decision and play that wins championships.Cignetti sent his kicker out on fourth-and-4 from the 12, but quickly called his second timeout. The team huddled on the field and the coach drew up a quarterback draw, hoping the Hurricanes would be in a defense they had shown before.“We rolled the dice and said, ‘They’re going to be in it again and they were,’” Cignetti said. “We blocked it well, he broke a tackle or two and got in the end zone.”Mendoza's play could very well join John Elway's “helicopter” run in Super Bowl 32 as one of the greatest examples of a quarterback willing to put everything on the line to win it all. Mendoza might soon have something else in common with Elway: This game did little to diminish his projection as the first pick in the upcoming NFL draft.“Everyone on the team, including my coach, makes fun of my running style,” Mendoza said. “But it’s fourth down, so you’ve got to put it all on the line. Every player, if they had that opportunity, they’d put their body on the line, too.”For Miami, it was a very close call.A team listed 18th in the first CFP rankings moved to 10th and sneaked into the playoff, bringing as many questions about the process as the selection itself.The Hurricanes proved they belonged all the way. Fletcher was a one-man force, hitting triple digits for the third time in four playoff games and turning a moribund offense into something much more.His first touchdown run was a 57-yard burst through the right side that pulled Miami within 10-7 early in the third quarter.But after forcing an Indiana punt deep into Miami territory, Hoosiers lineman Mikail Kamara slid past the ’Canes’ protectors and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CFBPlayoff/status/2013450145979867387">blocked the kick</a>. Isaiah Jones recovered to make it 17-7. Miami was in comeback mode the rest of the way.It ended as a one-score game, and the ’Canes — the visiting team playing on their home field — moved into Indiana territory before Carson Beck’s heave got picked off by Jamari Sharpe, a Miami native who made sure the only miracle in this season would be Indiana’s.How big a miracle?This was a program that was so bad that coach Lee Corso stopped a game in 1976 to take a picture of a scoreboard when it read “Indiana 7, Ohio State 6.” Indiana lost 47-7.There were hundreds of losses in front of half-empty stadiums between then and now.But those days are over. The Hoosiers — yes, the Hoosiers — are national champions.“I know nobody thought it was possible,” Cignetti said. “It probably is one of the greatest sports stories of all time.”

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