PHOENIX (AP) — Pavin Smith and pinch-hitter Jordan Luplow homered in a five-run sixth inning to help the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Kansas City Royals 8-6. Daulton Varsho and David Peralta also homered for the Diamondbacks, who have won five of their last six and have 15 homers in that stretch, including seven in a 10-6 victory against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field last Friday. Rookie MJ Melendez homered and drove in three runs for Kansas City, which has lost six in a row and eight of 10.

PHOENIX (AP) — Pavin Smith and pinch-hitter Jordan Luplow homered in a five-run sixth inning to help the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Kansas City Royals 8-6. Daulton Varsho and David Peralta also homered for the Diamondbacks, who have won five of their last six and have 15 homers in that stretch, including seven in a 10-6 victory against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field last Friday. Rookie MJ Melendez homered and drove in three runs for Kansas City, which has lost six in a row and eight of 10.

Big sixth inning leads Arizona past Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gio Urshela hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning to complete Minnesota’s comeback from a six-run deficit, lifting the Twins over the Kansas City Royals 7-6. Down 6-0, the Twins scored five times in the eighth, capped by Kyle Garlick’s two-run homer. Jorge Polanco drew a leadoff walk from Josh Staumont in the ninth, Max Kepler doubled and Gary Sanchez tied it with his second sacrifice fly in two innings. With two outs, Urshela singled for the lead.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gio Urshela hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning to complete Minnesota’s comeback from a six-run deficit, lifting the Twins over the Kansas City Royals 7-6. Down 6-0, the Twins scored five times in the eighth, capped by Kyle Garlick’s two-run homer. Jorge Polanco drew a leadoff walk from Josh Staumont in the ninth, Max Kepler doubled and Gary Sanchez tied it with his second sacrifice fly in two innings. With two outs, Urshela singled for the lead.

Royals lose six run lead and the ballgame

By TYLER HENRY JC Post contributor

The Salina Liberty waltzed into Sioux City and handed the last undefeated team in the CIF their first loss on Saturday defeating the Bandits 39-30.

With this big bounce-back win the Liberty have clinched one of this year’s six playoff berths at 5-3 while Sioux City stays atop the standings at 7-1.

The top two scoring defenses in the league came to play in the first half as neither team would find the scoreboard through the first quarter, and Salina preserved their shutout through the intermission.

Sioux City battled but the Liberty remained in control from wire to wire, taking the lead on a second-quarter field goal from Jimmy Allen and never looking back.

Following two lackluster performances under center, Vincent Espinoza was replaced by Javin Kilgo, who became the fourth different QB to start a game for the Liberty this season.

After taking a half to get to grips, Kilgo put on a show, completing 14-18 for 152 yards and tossing three touchdowns without a pick including two to Demarius Washington to put Salina on top 29-6.

Washington quickly established himself as a go-to receiver for Kilgo, hauling in half of his completions for 115 yards to go along with the pair of touchdowns.

The Liberty defense did their part all throughout forcing two critical turnovers including a fumble recovery in the end zone by Anthony Love for a big early touchdown.

Sioux City outscored Salina 24-10 to close out the game but it was far too little far too late as the Liberty secured the series split with their long-time rival.

It was also a triumphant return for the former Special Teams Player of the Year Jimmy Allen as the kicker tacked on eight points including two field big goals in the nine-point victory.

The Liberty will return to Salina next week for their final home game of the 2022 season hosting the 0-8 Topeka Tropics while the Bandits travel to Billings for a battle of the current top-two teams.

By TYLER HENRY JC Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618021366432.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Liberty waltzed into Sioux City and handed the last undefeated team in the CIF their first loss on Saturday defeating the Bandits 39-30.With this big bounce-back win the Liberty have clinched one of this year’s six playoff berths at 5-3 while Sioux City stays atop the standings at 7-1.The top two scoring defenses in the league came to play in the first half as neither team would find the scoreboard through the first quarter, and Salina preserved their shutout through the intermission.Sioux City battled but the Liberty remained in control from wire to wire, taking the lead on a second-quarter field goal from Jimmy Allen and never looking back.Following two lackluster performances under center, Vincent Espinoza was replaced by Javin Kilgo, who became the fourth different QB to start a game for the Liberty this season.After taking a half to get to grips, Kilgo put on a show, completing 14-18 for 152 yards and tossing three touchdowns without a pick including two to Demarius Washington to put Salina on top 29-6.Washington quickly established himself as a go-to receiver for Kilgo, hauling in half of his completions for 115 yards to go along with the pair of touchdowns.The Liberty defense did their part all throughout forcing two critical turnovers including a fumble recovery in the end zone by Anthony Love for a big early touchdown.Sioux City outscored Salina 24-10 to close out the game but it was far too little far too late as the Liberty secured the series split with their long-time rival.It was also a triumphant return for the former Special Teams Player of the Year Jimmy Allen as the kicker tacked on eight points including two field big goals in the nine-point victory.The Liberty will return to Salina next week for their final home game of the 2022 season hosting the 0-8 Topeka Tropics while the Bandits travel to Billings for a battle of the current top-two teams.

Kilgo dazzles in debut as Liberty hand Bandits first loss

With just three games remaining on the regular-season calendar the Salina Liberty will head north for a Saturday rematch against the Sioux City Bandits.

The Bandits lead the CIF as the only undefeated team left standing at 7-0 while Salina comes in at 4-3, fresh off a tough loss to the Omaha Beef.

“I thought that was a great defensive ballgame,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Our offense didn’t play as well as it needed to across the board and that was our worst offensive output since I’ve been here. That was an eye-opener and we’ll be looking to shake things up and maybe bring some new people in. We know what we need to do moving forward.”

Any future Salina success will hinge on new quarterback Vincent Espinoza, who still has the full confidence of the coaching staff despite a few recent lackluster performances.

“I think he's is settling in nicely,” O’Neal said. “This is his first real live-action with the indoor game and we’ve put a lot on him but he’s been about where we hoped he would be. He has to be better but we have to be better around him to fix this offense.”

The Liberty will need to look sharp this week against a Bandits team that boasts the top scoring offense (51.1 ppg) and the second-best scoring defense (31 ppga) in the CIF.

“They have a very physical defense and they’ve got Dajon Emory who’s one of the top three defensive linemen in this league,” he said. “Offensively quarterback Lorenzo Brown sat out last week but he should be ready to go and he’s a front runner for MVP in my opinion as a dual-threat who’s won five national titles.”

Despite missing a game Brown remains third in the league in almost every passing category, completing 60% of his passes for just shy of 800 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just two interceptions.

“We have to make plays when we have opportunities,” O’Neal said. “We can’t drop interceptions or miss chances to strip a ball and we have to be sound up front and in our linebacker core to stop the run.”

While the Salina offense has struggled at times this season, the defense has remained as steady as ever and enters this week as the most dominant in the league, holding opponents to just 26 points per game on average.

“I’ve been impressed with how our defense has stood by our offense in practices and in games despite the low output,” he said. “They could easily be pointing the finger but we haven’t had that at all and that togetherness has been great to see.”

Kickoff between the Liberty and Bandits is set for 7:05 pm in Sioux City and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

By TYLER HENRY JC Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>With just three games remaining on the regular-season calendar the Salina Liberty will head north for a Saturday rematch against the Sioux City Bandits.The Bandits lead the CIF as the only undefeated team left standing at 7-0 while Salina comes in at 4-3, fresh off a tough loss to the Omaha Beef.“I thought that was a great defensive ballgame,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Our offense didn’t play as well as it needed to across the board and that was our worst offensive output since I’ve been here. That was an eye-opener and we’ll be looking to shake things up and maybe bring some new people in. We know what we need to do moving forward.”Any future Salina success will hinge on new quarterback Vincent Espinoza, who still has the full confidence of the coaching staff despite a few recent lackluster performances.“I think he's is settling in nicely,” O’Neal said. “This is his first real live-action with the indoor game and we’ve put a lot on him but he’s been about where we hoped he would be. He has to be better but we have to be better around him to fix this offense.”The Liberty will need to look sharp this week against a Bandits team that boasts the top scoring offense (51.1 ppg) and the second-best scoring defense (31 ppga) in the CIF.“They have a very physical defense and they’ve got Dajon Emory who’s one of the top three defensive linemen in this league,” he said. “Offensively quarterback Lorenzo Brown sat out last week but he should be ready to go and he’s a front runner for MVP in my opinion as a dual-threat who’s won five national titles.”Despite missing a game Brown remains third in the league in almost every passing category, completing 60% of his passes for just shy of 800 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just two interceptions.“We have to make plays when we have opportunities,” O’Neal said. “We can’t drop interceptions or miss chances to strip a ball and we have to be sound up front and in our linebacker core to stop the run.”While the Salina offense has struggled at times this season, the defense has remained as steady as ever and enters this week as the most dominant in the league, holding opponents to just 26 points per game on average.“I’ve been impressed with how our defense has stood by our offense in practices and in games despite the low output,” he said. “They could easily be pointing the finger but we haven’t had that at all and that togetherness has been great to see.”Kickoff between the Liberty and Bandits is set for 7:05 pm in Sioux City and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

Top-two defenses collide as Liberty travel to Sioux City

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas State men’s basketball team will play host to longtime rival Nebraska in the Wildcat Classic on Saturday, December 17 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.

Tickets will be available for season ticket holders to purchase during the renewal process starting Monday, June 6. Tickets for the general public and K-State students will go on sale later this fall.

Tickets for season ticket holders are priced at $150 for courtside, $40 for lower-level sides, $25 for lower-level corners and $15 for lower-level ends and upper-level sides at the T-Mobile Center.

The game will be the second in a 3-game series between the former conference foes after the Wildcats earned a 67-58 win over the Cornhuskers at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska on December 19, 2021. The schools were supposed to open the series at the T-Mobile Center on December 19, 2020, but it was pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The final game is scheduled for Bramlage Coliseum during the 2023-24 season.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas State men’s basketball team will play host to longtime rival Nebraska in the Wildcat Classic on Saturday, December 17 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.Tickets will be available for season ticket holders to purchase during the renewal process starting Monday, June 6. Tickets for the general public and K-State students will go on sale later this fall.Tickets for season ticket holders are priced at $150 for courtside, $40 for lower-level sides, $25 for lower-level corners and $15 for lower-level ends and upper-level sides at the T-Mobile Center.The game will be the second in a 3-game series between the former conference foes after the Wildcats earned a 67-58 win over the Cornhuskers at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska on December 19, 2021. The schools were supposed to open the series at the T-Mobile Center on December 19, 2020, but it was pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The final game is scheduled for Bramlage Coliseum during the 2023-24 season.

K-State men's basketball will play Nebraska in Kansas City next December 

Fourteen Junction City Blue Jay and Lady Jay track and field athletes will compete in the State Track Meet at Cessna Stadium in Wichita next Friday and Saturday, May 27th and 28th.

Junction City finished fourth in the boys competition and sixth in girls competition at a Class 6A Regional Meet in Topeka on Thursday, where the top four finishers in events qualified for state.

Highlights for the Blue Jay boys included:

--Tyler Atkins finishing first in the 800 meters in 1:58.53, second in the 3200 meters 9:58.31 and second in the 1600 meters in&nbsp; 4:31.68

--Ethan Agudzi-Addo third in the 300 meter hurdles 42.52 and third in the high jump 6"

-- Josiah Delva, fourth 400 meter dash, 52.29

--4 x 400 relay team third, Josiah Delva, Anthony Kemp, Jayden Reutzel, Malijah Byers 3:28.02

--Keghan McConnell second shotput 48 and second discus 156'

-- Highlights for the Lady Jays included:

--Lorna Rae Pierce third 3200 meter run 11:47.63

--Nhubia Coney third 100 meter dash 12.33, third 400 meter dash 59.93, third 26.34200 meter dash&nbsp;

--Brynna York fourth 1600 meter run 5:38.92

--4 x 100 relay third 50.66 Patience Okemba, Nhubia Coney, Shamiyah Joyner, Jayda Harris

--Jayda Harris second triple jump 33'8.75"

Fourteen Junction City Blue Jay and Lady Jay track and field athletes will compete in the State Track Meet at Cessna Stadium in Wichita next Friday and Saturday, May 27th and 28th.Junction City finished fourth in the boys competition and sixth in girls competition at a Class 6A Regional Meet in Topeka on Thursday, where the top four finishers in events qualified for state.Highlights for the Blue Jay boys included:--Tyler Atkins finishing first in the 800 meters in 1:58.53, second in the 3200 meters 9:58.31 and second in the 1600 meters in&nbsp; 4:31.68--Ethan Agudzi-Addo third in the 300 meter hurdles 42.52 and third in the high jump 6"-- Josiah Delva, fourth 400 meter dash, 52.29--4 x 400 relay team third, Josiah Delva, Anthony Kemp, Jayden Reutzel, Malijah Byers 3:28.02--Keghan McConnell second shotput 48 and second discus 156'--Randall Banks second long jump 21'8"The Blue Jays scored 72 team points.-- Highlights for the Lady Jays included:--Lorna Rae Pierce third 3200 meter run 11:47.63--Nhubia Coney third 100 meter dash 12.33, third 400 meter dash 59.93, third 26.34200 meter dash&nbsp;--Brynna York fourth 1600 meter run 5:38.92--4 x 100 relay third 50.66 Patience Okemba, Nhubia Coney, Shamiyah Joyner, Jayda Harris--Jayda Harris second triple jump 33'8.75"The Lady Jays scored 48 team points.

JCHS qualifies 14 athletes for the State Track Meet

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Luis Robert homered and drove in four runs as the Chicago White Sox rallied past the Kansas City Royals 7-4 to win the five-game series. Robert delivered a pair of RBI singles before hitting a two-run homer into the left field stands in the eighth. His sixth home run of the season capped Chicago’s sixth come-from-behind win. Pinch-hitter Adam Engel gave the White Sox their first lead with an RBI single in the seventh off Gabe Speier that broke a 4-all tie. Tim Anderson had two hits, two walks and two RBIs, recording his 10th multi-hit outing in his last 18 games for the White Sox. Chicago took three of five from the Royals, when the White Sox also won three of five.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Luis Robert homered and drove in four runs as the Chicago White Sox rallied past the Kansas City Royals 7-4 to win the five-game series. Robert delivered a pair of RBI singles before hitting a two-run homer into the left field stands in the eighth. His sixth home run of the season capped Chicago’s sixth come-from-behind win. Pinch-hitter Adam Engel gave the White Sox their first lead with an RBI single in the seventh off Gabe Speier that broke a 4-all tie. Tim Anderson had two hits, two walks and two RBIs, recording his 10th multi-hit outing in his last 18 games for the White Sox. Chicago took three of five from the Royals, when the White Sox also won three of five.

Royals lose final game of the series to the White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez homered and fellow rookie Emmanuel Rivera hit a go-ahead triple to lead the Kansas City Royals over the Chicago White Sox 6-2. Witt, Melendez and Rivera each had two hits. Rivera’s sinking liner escaped a diving Adam Engel for a triple that drove in Melendez with the tiebreaking run in the sixth. In his return from the COVID-19-related injured list, Giolito labored early, needing 54 pitches to complete the first two innings, allowing four hits and two walks. After Witt’s leadoff homer in the third, Giolito struck out six of the next seven batters and permitted only a pair of singles before being lifted after five innings.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez homered and fellow rookie Emmanuel Rivera hit a go-ahead triple to lead the Kansas City Royals over the Chicago White Sox 6-2. Witt, Melendez and Rivera each had two hits. Rivera’s sinking liner escaped a diving Adam Engel for a triple that drove in Melendez with the tiebreaking run in the sixth. In his return from the COVID-19-related injured list, Giolito labored early, needing 54 pitches to complete the first two innings, allowing four hits and two walks. After Witt’s leadoff homer in the third, Giolito struck out six of the next seven batters and permitted only a pair of singles before being lifted after five innings.

Royals get home runs to help defeat the White Sox

Junction City fell to Lawrence Free State 1-0 in the first round of their Class 6A Regional Baseball Tournament in Lawrence Wednesday. The Blue Jays end the season 8-13 while Lawrence Free State improved to 14-7.

Blue Jay coach James Denton said the Firebirds scored the only run of the game in the sixth inning via a walk, a single, and an attempt by Junction City to turn a double play on an infield ground ball where the baseball ended up going into right field. That left the bases loaded for Free State, who then went on to score the winning run in that sixth inning.&nbsp;

Denton credited Blue Jay pitcher Jordan Kell for an outstanding effort, noting he really competed strong. He also told the team after the game that they "were awesome. I was so proud of them." He credited the Blue Jays for competing hard for seven innings, noting he felt that Junction City won the energy battle in the contest. Lawrence Free State was the top seed going into the regional.

According to Blue Jay Athletics twitter in softball Junction City lost to Garden City 8-0 in the first round of their Class 6A Regional Tournament in Garden City. The Lady Jays finished the season 6-15 while Garden City improved to 17-4.

Junction City fell to Lawrence Free State 1-0 in the first round of their Class 6A Regional Baseball Tournament in Lawrence Wednesday. The Blue Jays end the season 8-13 while Lawrence Free State improved to 14-7.Blue Jay coach James Denton said the Firebirds scored the only run of the game in the sixth inning via a walk, a single, and an attempt by Junction City to turn a double play on an infield ground ball where the baseball ended up going into right field. That left the bases loaded for Free State, who then went on to score the winning run in that sixth inning.&nbsp;Denton credited Blue Jay pitcher Jordan Kell for an outstanding effort, noting he really competed strong. He also told the team after the game that they "were awesome. I was so proud of them." He credited the Blue Jays for competing hard for seven innings, noting he felt that Junction City won the energy battle in the contest. Lawrence Free State was the top seed going into the regional.According to Blue Jay Athletics twitter in softball Junction City lost to Garden City 8-0 in the first round of their Class 6A Regional Tournament in Garden City. The Lady Jays finished the season 6-15 while Garden City improved to 17-4.

Seasons end for JCHS baseball and softball teams

There will be K-8th grade boys and girls basketball camp June 9-10 at the Bradley Gym at the Saint Xavier School. The hours will be 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Email to cama@saintxrams.org to reserve spots or sign up in the St. Xavier School office. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Saint Xavier. The deadline is June 6th.

There will be K-8th grade boys and girls basketball camp June 9-10 at the Bradley Gym at the Saint Xavier School. The hours will be 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.Email to cama@saintxrams.org to reserve spots or sign up in the St. Xavier School office. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Saint Xavier. The deadline is June 6th.

Saint Xavier will host basketball camp

Director Men's Basketball Communications - K-State

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State will travel to historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Wednesday, November 30 to take on the Butler Bulldogs as part of the fourth edition of the Big 12/BIG EAST Battle, the two conferences announced on Wednesday (May 18).

The 10 matchups were jointly determined by the two conferences and will be played on various campuses starting on Tuesday, November 29 and running through Sunday, December 4. Since Butler is the home team, the game will be broadcast on one of FOX Sports’ platforms. Specific television information and game time will be released later.

This will be just the second meeting between the programs and the first since Butler knocked off K-State, 63-56, in the NCAA West Regional Final in Salt Lake City to advance to the 2010 Final Four. It will be the first-ever visit to venerable Hinkle Fieldhouse, which is one of the oldest college basketball arenas still in use opening in 1928.

By Tom Gilbert&nbsp;Director Men's Basketball Communications - K-StateMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State will travel to historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Wednesday, November 30 to take on the Butler Bulldogs as part of the fourth edition of the Big 12/BIG EAST Battle, the two conferences announced on Wednesday (May 18).The 10 matchups were jointly determined by the two conferences and will be played on various campuses starting on Tuesday, November 29 and running through Sunday, December 4. Since Butler is the home team, the game will be broadcast on one of FOX Sports’ platforms. Specific television information and game time will be released later.This will be just the second meeting between the programs and the first since Butler knocked off K-State, 63-56, in the NCAA West Regional Final in Salt Lake City to advance to the 2010 Final Four. It will be the first-ever visit to venerable Hinkle Fieldhouse, which is one of the oldest college basketball arenas still in use opening in 1928.

K-State to Visit Butler in Big 12/BIG EAST Battle

Assistant Athletics Director for Communications

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;An exclusive fraternity of K-State Football greats will grow by six members later this year, as K-State Athletics has announced the Ring of Honor Class of 2022.

The class, which will be officially inducted the weekend of the season opener against South Dakota, includes linebacker&nbsp;Arthur Brown&nbsp;(2011-12), running back&nbsp;Larry Brown&nbsp;(1967-68), defensive end&nbsp;Darren Howard&nbsp;(1996-99), quarterback&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;(2009-12), wide receiver&nbsp;Tyler Lockett&nbsp;(2011-14) and quarterback&nbsp;Ell Roberson&nbsp;(2000-03).

“Each of these men hold a special place in the history of our program, and it will be an honor to be a part of their induction into our Ring of Honor,” head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;said. “Their hard work and achievements on the field are well-documented, and we are excited to welcome them back to Manhattan for a special induction weekend.”

The Class of 2022 accumulated 31 total All-America citations during their careers, including 11 first-team honors. They have combined to reside in the top 10 of K-State game, single-season or career records on 209 occasions, which includes 48 total school records. The group also includes four Big 12 Champions with Roberson leading the Wildcats to a 35-7 win over No. 1 Oklahoma in the 2003 Big 12 Championship game, while Arthur Brown, Klein and Lockett were members of the 2012 Big 12 Championship team.

“As with past classes, I am truly honored to have coached five of these special young men who continue to represent Kansas State University in a special manner,”&nbsp;Bill Snyder&nbsp;said. “They are men of character, great leaders, talented football players and great representatives of their highly successful football program and the 16 Goals for Success.”

K-State’s Ring of Honor will now include 20 individuals, and this is the fourth class since the establishment of the honor in 2002, joining the 2008 and 2015 classes. Recognition into the Ring of Honor includes a permanent display of each individual’s name on the façade of Bill Snyder Family Stadium, the ring display just inside Gate B on the West Stadium Center concourse and inside the main lobby of the Vanier Family Football Complex.

“This is a tremendous group of players and young men,” Athletics Director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;said. “I would like to thank Coach Snyder and Coach Klieman for their involvement in the selection of these new inductees, but more importantly, each individual for all they have done for Kansas State football, our athletics program and our university. It will be a memorable weekend to celebrate their accomplishments.”

The six-member Class of 2022 will join 2002 honorees&nbsp;Lynn Dickey&nbsp;(QB – 1968-70),&nbsp;Steve Grogan&nbsp;(QB – 1972-74),&nbsp;Jaime Mendez&nbsp;(DB – 1990-93),&nbsp;Sean Snyder&nbsp;(P – 1991-92),&nbsp;Gary Spani&nbsp;(LB – 1974-77) and&nbsp;Veryl Switzer&nbsp;(RB – 1951-53); Class of 2008 members&nbsp;David Allen&nbsp;(RB/PR – 1997-2000),&nbsp;Martin Gramatica&nbsp;(PK – 1994-98),&nbsp;Terence Newman&nbsp;(DB – 1999-2002) and&nbsp;Mark Simoneau&nbsp;(LB – 1996-99); and Class of 2015 inductees&nbsp;Michael Bishop&nbsp;(QB – 1997-98),&nbsp;Jordy Nelson&nbsp;(WR – 2005-07),&nbsp;Clarence Scott&nbsp;(DB – 1968-70) and&nbsp;Darren Sproles&nbsp;(RB – 2000-04).

By Ryan LackeyAssistant Athletics Director for CommunicationsMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;An exclusive fraternity of K-State Football greats will grow by six members later this year, as K-State Athletics has announced the Ring of Honor Class of 2022.The class, which will be officially inducted the weekend of the season opener against South Dakota, includes linebacker&nbsp;Arthur Brown&nbsp;(2011-12), running back&nbsp;Larry Brown&nbsp;(1967-68), defensive end&nbsp;Darren Howard&nbsp;(1996-99), quarterback&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;(2009-12), wide receiver&nbsp;Tyler Lockett&nbsp;(2011-14) and quarterback&nbsp;Ell Roberson&nbsp;(2000-03).“Each of these men hold a special place in the history of our program, and it will be an honor to be a part of their induction into our Ring of Honor,” head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;said. “Their hard work and achievements on the field are well-documented, and we are excited to welcome them back to Manhattan for a special induction weekend.”The Class of 2022 accumulated 31 total All-America citations during their careers, including 11 first-team honors. They have combined to reside in the top 10 of K-State game, single-season or career records on 209 occasions, which includes 48 total school records. The group also includes four Big 12 Champions with Roberson leading the Wildcats to a 35-7 win over No. 1 Oklahoma in the 2003 Big 12 Championship game, while Arthur Brown, Klein and Lockett were members of the 2012 Big 12 Championship team.“As with past classes, I am truly honored to have coached five of these special young men who continue to represent Kansas State University in a special manner,”&nbsp;Bill Snyder&nbsp;said. “They are men of character, great leaders, talented football players and great representatives of their highly successful football program and the 16 Goals for Success.”K-State’s Ring of Honor will now include 20 individuals, and this is the fourth class since the establishment of the honor in 2002, joining the 2008 and 2015 classes. Recognition into the Ring of Honor includes a permanent display of each individual’s name on the façade of Bill Snyder Family Stadium, the ring display just inside Gate B on the West Stadium Center concourse and inside the main lobby of the Vanier Family Football Complex.“This is a tremendous group of players and young men,” Athletics Director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;said. “I would like to thank Coach Snyder and Coach Klieman for their involvement in the selection of these new inductees, but more importantly, each individual for all they have done for Kansas State football, our athletics program and our university. It will be a memorable weekend to celebrate their accomplishments.”The six-member Class of 2022 will join 2002 honorees&nbsp;Lynn Dickey&nbsp;(QB – 1968-70),&nbsp;Steve Grogan&nbsp;(QB – 1972-74),&nbsp;Jaime Mendez&nbsp;(DB – 1990-93),&nbsp;Sean Snyder&nbsp;(P – 1991-92),&nbsp;Gary Spani&nbsp;(LB – 1974-77) and&nbsp;Veryl Switzer&nbsp;(RB – 1951-53); Class of 2008 members&nbsp;David Allen&nbsp;(RB/PR – 1997-2000),&nbsp;Martin Gramatica&nbsp;(PK – 1994-98),&nbsp;Terence Newman&nbsp;(DB – 1999-2002) and&nbsp;Mark Simoneau&nbsp;(LB – 1996-99); and Class of 2015 inductees&nbsp;Michael Bishop&nbsp;(QB – 1997-98),&nbsp;Jordy Nelson&nbsp;(WR – 2005-07),&nbsp;Clarence Scott&nbsp;(DB – 1968-70) and&nbsp;Darren Sproles&nbsp;(RB – 2000-04).

K-State unveils six-member Ring of Honor Class of 22

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer outdueled Davis Martin as the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 2-1 in the second game of a doubleheader. The White Sox won the first game 3-0. Singer (1-0) had his best outing since last September 5, when he threw seven shutout innings against the White Sox. He struck out a career high nine batters and didn’t walk anyone. He allowed just four hits in seven innings. Josh Staumont earned his third save in five chances. Davis Martin (0-1) made his debut and was equally impressive. He allowed just one run on five hits in five innings, walking one and striking out seven.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer outdueled Davis Martin as the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 2-1 in the second game of a doubleheader. The White Sox won the first game 3-0. Singer (1-0) had his best outing since last September 5, when he threw seven shutout innings against the White Sox. He struck out a career high nine batters and didn’t walk anyone. He allowed just four hits in seven innings. Josh Staumont earned his third save in five chances. Davis Martin (0-1) made his debut and was equally impressive. He allowed just one run on five hits in five innings, walking one and striking out seven.

Royals and White Sox split doubleheader

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jose Abreu hit a two-run double in a three-run fifth inning, Dylan Cease pitched scoreless ball into the sixth, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 in the first game of a doubleheader. Cease wrangled out of trouble throughout, allowing runners in every inning. He gave up seven hits in 5 2/3 innings, with nine strikeouts — several in clutch situations. The Royals struck out 14 times overall, went 0-for-12 with runners in scoring position and stranded 12 runners. They have lost seven of 10. Kansas City’s Salvador Perez left the game in the seventh with a left thumb sprain.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jose Abreu hit a two-run double in a three-run fifth inning, Dylan Cease pitched scoreless ball into the sixth, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 in the first game of a doubleheader. Cease wrangled out of trouble throughout, allowing runners in every inning. He gave up seven hits in 5 2/3 innings, with nine strikeouts — several in clutch situations. The Royals struck out 14 times overall, went 0-for-12 with runners in scoring position and stranded 12 runners. They have lost seven of 10. Kansas City’s Salvador Perez left the game in the seventh with a left thumb sprain.

White Sox top Royals in game one of doubleheader

You can hear the Kansas City Royals doubleheader against the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday from Kauffman Stadium on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM.

The broadcast for the first game begins at 12:30 p.m. and for the second game at 5:30 p.m.

You can hear the Kansas City Royals doubleheader against the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday from Kauffman Stadium on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM.The broadcast for the first game begins at 12:30 p.m. and for the second game at 5:30 p.m.

Listen to the Royals doubleheader on Tuesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have fired hitting coach Terry Bradshaw and promoted Alex Zumwalt in a shakeup of the coaching staff that they hope will wake up one of the worst offenses in the majors. The Royals have scored 118 runs through their first 32 games, better only than the Tigers, Orioles and White Sox. Their 21 home runs trail only the Tigers and Red Sox for the worst total in the big leagues. Keoni DeRenne will remain the assistant hitting coach and Mike Tosar the special assignment hitting coach.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have fired hitting coach Terry Bradshaw and promoted Alex Zumwalt in a shakeup of the coaching staff that they hope will wake up one of the worst offenses in the majors. The Royals have scored 118 runs through their first 32 games, better only than the Tigers, Orioles and White Sox. Their 21 home runs trail only the Tigers and Red Sox for the worst total in the big leagues. Keoni DeRenne will remain the assistant hitting coach and Mike Tosar the special assignment hitting coach.

Royals fire their hitting coach

DENVER (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a go-ahead, two-run single in the ninth inning and the Kansas City Royals recovered from blowing a six-run lead to beat the Colorado Rockies 8-7. Bobby Witt Jr., Whit Merrifield and Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals, who took two of three from Colorado. The Rockies overcame a 6-0 deficit by scoring seven times in the seventh. Andrew Benintendi drew a leadoff walk from Rockies closer Daniel Bard in the ninth and Ryan O’Hearn singled. A wild pitch and a one-out walk to Michael A. Taylor loaded the bases for Perez, who laced a single to left field.

DENVER (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a go-ahead, two-run single in the ninth inning and the Kansas City Royals recovered from blowing a six-run lead to beat the Colorado Rockies 8-7. Bobby Witt Jr., Whit Merrifield and Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals, who took two of three from Colorado. The Rockies overcame a 6-0 deficit by scoring seven times in the seventh. Andrew Benintendi drew a leadoff walk from Rockies closer Daniel Bard in the ninth and Ryan O’Hearn singled. A wild pitch and a one-out walk to Michael A. Taylor loaded the bases for Perez, who laced a single to left field.

Royals get late hit to defeat the Rockies

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas State men’s basketball players&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ismael (Ish) Massoud&nbsp;met with the media on Friday afternoon (May 13) to discuss the transition to new head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;and his coaching staff, spring workouts with just two players and a look ahead to the 2022-23 season.

Nowell is coming off a stellar season in 2021-22, in which, the transfer earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention and Big 12 All-Defensive Team honors after placing in the league’s top-15 in scoring (12th/12.4 ppg.) and top-5 in assists (2nd/5.0 apg.), steals (1st/2.2 spg.) and assist-to-turnover ratio (2nd/1.97). In addition to leading the Wildcats in assists and steals, he was second in 3-point field goals (43) and free throws (68) and third in scoring, double-digit scoring games (19) and 20-point games (3). He also posted three double-doubles (points/assists), which are the most such double-doubles in school history for both a career and a single season.

Massoud was one of just two Wildcats to see action in all 31 games in 2021-22, starting 18. He had a strong ending to the season, averaging 10.7 points on 45.5 percent (10-of-22) shooting and 4.0 rebounds per game in the last 3 games, including 13 points vs. West Virginia in the Big 12 Championship. He scored in double figures in 11 games, including 5 times in Big 12 play, with a season-high 17 points vs. Green Bay on Dec. 12. For the season, he averaged 6.8 points on 36.3 percent (70-of-193) shooting, including 33.3 percent (36-of-108) from 3-point range, to go with 2.8 rebounds and 0.7 steals in 24.3 minutes per game.

Nowell and Massoud completed semester exams on Friday (May 13) and will now have a few weeks off before the summer session begins on Monday, June 6.

MARKQUIS NOWELL, RISING SENIOR GUARD

On the strangeness of spring workouts with just two players...

“We still found ways to get better. All you need is a coaching staff, and you&nbsp;are still getting better each and every day. It doesn't matter how many people are here, we still stick (to the same routine) until you know our normal routine. We are just playing the waiting game and eventually we'll have enough pieces to where we can do some team activities, but the grind doesn’t stop. We’re still working, still doing everything that we need to do.”

On his involvement with recruiting….

“This is actually my choice. I wanted to be involved in recruitment (process) because I wanted to play along guys that I can trust, who could trust me right away, so it's been a fun process. It's been a good process. We got a couple of guys out of the portal like me and Ish, along some high school guys. It's been fun to get to know other players and how they think. It has been fun just being a part of how we build the process.”

On what it has been like to go from where you were a year ago to this year…

“It has been a fun challenge. But you know, my vision is not what God's vision is. So, whatever He wants to happen will happen. And that's how I live my day on a daily basis. Whatever I expected coming into this year, He didn't have planned for me, so it's going to eventually work itself out. We'll have the guys that we need to win. I trust Coach Tang and I trust everybody on the coaching staff, so you know, I have high hopes.”

On what the last few months have been like with Coach Tang…

“It's been a lot of fun. We've got a group of coaches who are genuine and hard working. They are probably one of the hardest working coaching staffs that I've been around. And, you know, they just made me feel at home. Nothing really changed for me. We just continue to keep working, continuing to keep helping each other to build this program back up. It's been a fun journey. It hasn't been devastating or depressing. It's been it's been a fun one.”

On what he has learned so far from Coach Tang…

“He has a winning mindset. The first couple of days I picked up a couple of his quotes but his mindset to certain things is just remarkable. I remember we were in the weight room working out and he came in and told us when we break the huddle instead of saying ‘1-2-3’ we are going to say ‘3-2-1’. I was thinking why is he saying that? He was like because we were never going be number three in anything, we want to be number one in everything we do and that really stuck with me. I'm like this guy really wants to win.”

On what a typical day has been of late…

“It's been finals week. It's been crazy. I got all my finals done (today). But now I can just wake up, come in, talk to the coaches see what they're doing, workout, go do some weight training and do treatment. I will stick to that routine each and every day from now on.”

On seeing nine teammates enter the transfer portal…

“I kind of expected it (with the coaching transition). It wasn't much of a reaction. It was more of how we can move forward. I knew I was going to stay. And I knew Ish was going to stay. So, I knew we had to do everything in our power to focus on what's in front of us. And that was only reaction.”

On where Coach Tang wants to see improvement from him next season…

“He just preaches consistency, winning the day, winning each and every drill, just continue to keep being me. And that's what I love about him the most because he preaches to be you and wherever you are, to be you and win the day. And over a long span of time, then you'll see the results.”

On what his role is during official visits…

“There is no specific role (with the recruits). We just go out to eat with them and have fun. We talk about certain experiences we share. We take them to the gym to workout and just be around them, show them love. Show them as much love as we can and make them feel at home. We don't try to convince anybody. But we just try to be ourselves and let them know what they can expect if they come here.”

On what you have found from the interactions with the incoming recruits…

“I noticed that everybody that has committed have the same mindset as me and that is to get better each and every day and that's a huge part of what this team is trying to rebuild and do. You know, we got guys like Cam Carter, who sat out much of the season last year and he just wants to come in and work. Jerrell Colbert, the same thing he sat out and wants to come in and work. All these guys just want to come in and get better. Leaders need to set their egos aside and just work and that's a huge part of where we need to be right now.”

On memorable quotes from Coach Tang so far…

“I can’t think of one at the moment. But has been a lot. He has a lot of gems. He has a lot of quotes. He is just a very good person.”

On comparing the pressure of finals week to the pressure of the last minute on the basketball floor…

“Finals week is tough. You want to make sure you do everything you can, just like you do at the end of a game. But I’m in a good position. I had a couple of papers to write and a couple of tests, but I’m glad that I’m done (for the semester) and now I can just focus on basketball.”

“Just getting some players here. That's probably priority number one and then just focusing on my health and adding little things to my game. Just trying to get better each and every day. As much as I can appreciate it.”

On the difference between Coach Weber and Coach Tang…

“That’s a hard one to answer. Obviously, I haven’t been around Coach Tang that long. But they’re very similar. They both want to win; they want to represent K-State Basketball in a first-class way and have a strong culture. I can’t imagine coaches that work as hard as they do. They both are very good people, and they want to help you outside of basketball and want to help others in the K-State community. I can’t find much of a difference.”

On what it means to be one of the pieces Coach Tang is building around…

“They would have had to do a lot to take me off this team. Because I was trying to stay. I know he was evaluating the team and trying to see who wanted to stay here. So, I’m honored that he wanted me to be a part of rebuilding this team. And I’m happy that he wanted Ish to stay as well because we are a tremendous combo. It’s been a crazy journey so far. I just have to keep working and getting better.”

On Nijel Pack deciding to transfer…

“I kind of knew is up in the air. I didn't know if he would stay or if he would leave. But once he entered the transfer portal, I knew he was not coming back. I knew he wanted to see other options. I'm super, super proud of him. And the decision he made, there is no love lost between me and him or between anybody that's on his team (that decided to transfer). At the end of the day, it was a business decision. You got to look at it that way. And you know, he's happy, we're happy. All we got to do is keep moving forward.”

On his relationship with the rest of the coaching staff…

“The coaching staff is just great. They are a bunch of masterminds that know basketball. Coach (Kevin) Sutton), we call him Mr. Miyagi because he is a very, very good trainer who knows what he is doing. Coach Jareem (Dowling), he knows what he is doing. He really knows how to recruit. Coach (Marco) Borne. I could go down the list, they are a bunch of great coaches. From top to bottom, they have all added value in their own way. So, I really liked them. I really enjoyed it. I’m really excited for the year. I think it’s going to be great.”

On if there is one signee you most excited to play with…

“I like all the guys, but I would say I’m excited to play with Nae’Qwan (Tomlin) because we come from similar backgrounds. We are both from New York. He really plays with that passion and joy and love for the game.”

ISH MASSOUD, RISING JUNIOR FORWARD

On his first impressions of Coach Tang…

“Like they say, your first impression is what’s really important and Coach had a strong first impression. From the moment he got here, he spoke to me about what we’re going to try and do as a program. He and the staff have done nothing but show us love and tell us how much they value us. I appreciate what he’s been trying to do with K-State basketball.”

On what the strangest thing about only having two guys around the complex every day…

“The gym has been a little emptier than has been (in the past). But Markquis and I are always in the gym. So, we are used to being in there by ourselves. I wouldn’t say it's strange. There's just not that many people to talk to other than ourselves.”

On being one of only two players with a new coaching staff…

“If anyone's familiar with my situation, my college career so far, you know that this is nothing new to me. I have been through this situation before (at Wake Forest). So myself, I try to evaluate what I can do to make the most challenging situation I'm given. I feel I'm optimistic about what the future holds especially because Markquis decided to stay as well. That's my brother. I’m pretty confident in my abilities as well as Markquis and I know what we are trying to do next year. I have faith in the coaches, so I’m optimistic (about the future).”

“It means a lot especially of where Coach came from and the pedigree in terms of the players he's coached. And obviously the program he's been a part of, so he's not just keeping us to be nice. It’s the reason Markquis and I wanted to stay because we will be better off here. It just shows that he sees something in both of us.”

On his relationship with Markquis Nowell…

“Markquis and I have a crazy relationship. It's almost like every other day where we find old pictures or videos, a person on the same course. So, we have a long history already and are pretty close. Every day, it is just he and I and the coaching staff, so that bond has only grown tighter.”

On if he has any fun Coach Tang stories yet…

“Not sure if it’s a funny story, but I kept seeing this car up at the training facility and I’m like ‘whose BMW is that?’ because that car is fire. (laughter). Then I found out that it was Coach’s. It was one of the things he bought for himself when he got the job. And I’m like that car is fire.”

On what he has been able to accomplish this spring with just two players…

“In a way it has been a big benefit for me because the coaches can focus their attention on just me and Markquis other than just recruiting new players. So, it has been big for our development. We can get better and learn to do better for next season. That’s something I really appreciate and value because it’s just more reps for me and more reps for Markquis.”

On if he and Markquis have found a way to scrimmage…

“I think we played one time when people were still on the roster. But since then, I’ve just been working on my game, trying to kill the gym three, four time

Nowell, Massoud Discuss New Coaching Staff, Look Forward to 2022-23 Season

After falling behind Omaha for a second time this season the Salina Liberty once again battled back but this time, came up just short in the fourth quarter falling to the Beef 14-11.

Salina falls to 4-3 on the season, dropping to fifth place in the CIF standings while the Beef move up to third at 5-3.

As expected both defenses came to play combining to allow fewer than 300 yards of total offense with each team finding the end zone just once throughout the contest.

Omaha would get their lone touchdown first as Deshawn Jones punched in a three-yard score on the ground to put the Beef on top 6-0 early in the first quarter.

Each team had more opportunities to strike but Andrew Jackson and Vincent Espinoza traded picks at the tail end of the first to keep any potential points off the board.

From there, the two teams traded just a field goal apiece and went to the locker room with Omaha ahead 9-3.

Out of the break, the defensive dominance continued as the two once again traded interceptions to start the half.

The Beef were able to scrap together two field goals and a safety in the second half to take a critical two-possession lead into the back end of the fourth quarter.

Salina would finally find paydirt as Espinoza connected with Anthony Love in the red zone and a two-point conversion made it 14-11 in the final minute, but it proved to be too little too late.

The Liberty will be back in action on Saturday, May 21 when they travel to Sioux City for a revenge game against the Bandits.

By TYLER HENRY JC Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Salina Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Salina Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>After falling behind Omaha for a second time this season the Salina Liberty once again battled back but this time, came up just short in the fourth quarter falling to the Beef 14-11.Salina falls to 4-3 on the season, dropping to fifth place in the CIF standings while the Beef move up to third at 5-3.As expected both defenses came to play combining to allow fewer than 300 yards of total offense with each team finding the end zone just once throughout the contest.Omaha would get their lone touchdown first as Deshawn Jones punched in a three-yard score on the ground to put the Beef on top 6-0 early in the first quarter.Each team had more opportunities to strike but Andrew Jackson and Vincent Espinoza traded picks at the tail end of the first to keep any potential points off the board.From there, the two teams traded just a field goal apiece and went to the locker room with Omaha ahead 9-3.Out of the break, the defensive dominance continued as the two once again traded interceptions to start the half.The Beef were able to scrap together two field goals and a safety in the second half to take a critical two-possession lead into the back end of the fourth quarter.Salina would finally find paydirt as Espinoza connected with Anthony Love in the red zone and a two-point conversion made it 14-11 in the final minute, but it proved to be too little too late.The Liberty will be back in action on Saturday, May 21 when they travel to Sioux City for a revenge game against the Bandits.

Liberty drop defensive duel with Omaha

Postseason play in high school baseball and softball begin this next week.

In baseball Junction City ( 8-12 ) will play at Lawrence Free State ( 13-7 ) on Wednesday. The other half of the bracket finds Wichita West ( 11-7 ) playing Dodge City ( 8-12 ) in the tournament at Lawrence Free State. The championship game will be played after the two semifinal round contests.

In softball Junction City ( 6-14 ) will play at Garden City ( 16-4 ) on Wednesday while in that regional the other half of the bracket will pit Wichita Northwest ( 15-5 ) against Wichita North ( 7-13 ). The tournament championship game will also be played on Wednesday in Garden City.

Postseason play in high school baseball and softball begin this next week.In baseball Junction City ( 8-12 ) will play at Lawrence Free State ( 13-7 ) on Wednesday. The other half of the bracket finds Wichita West ( 11-7 ) playing Dodge City ( 8-12 ) in the tournament at Lawrence Free State. The championship game will be played after the two semifinal round contests.In softball Junction City ( 6-14 ) will play at Garden City ( 16-4 ) on Wednesday while in that regional the other half of the bracket will pit Wichita Northwest ( 15-5 ) against Wichita North ( 7-13 ). The tournament championship game will also be played on Wednesday in Garden City.

KSHSAA releases baseball and softball regional pairings

With just four games to play in the regular season, the 4-2 Salina Liberty will begin a long road stretch with a Saturday evening showdown against the Omaha Beef.

Salina took the first meeting between the two back in March as the team pulled out a fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the reigning champs 36-31.

“Most of these games come down to who makes more plays in the fourth quarter and in the first meeting with Omaha we got the big play when it mattered most to win it,” Salina Head Coach Heron O’Neal said.

The Liberty have been heating up at the right time, handing the Billings Outlaws their second loss of the season last week to advance to 4-2, vaulting themselves into third place in the CIF in the process.

“That was a great win in front of a great crowd,” O’Neal said. “Our defense and special teams played phenomenally and our offense woke up in the fourth quarter. It was great but we’re on to Omaha now.”

This iteration of the Beef will look much different from the one Salina faced in week two, and may look a lot more like the team they fell to in last year's CIF Championship game.

“Omaha got some big pieces back from last year’s team that they didn’t have on the roster the first time we played them,” he said. “This game will be a little bit different and we’ll have to make some adjustments.” The Liberty will have a few new faces to throw at Omaha themselves as rookie quarterback Vincent Espinoza prepares to make his third-ever CIF start hoping to remain undefeated in his Liberty career.

While Salina has won both games with Espinoza under center, ball protection and downfield vision will be paramount in a high-stakes game like this.

“We haven’t protected the football well in these last few games and we have to cut down on our turnovers and make better decisions,” O’Neal said. “With that being said we have to be willing to take our shots, we’ve left a lot of points on the board these last few weeks.”

On the other side the Liberty defense, which ranks best in the league allowing just 28 points per game, will once again be tasked with slowing quarterback Andrew Jackson. Jackson sits atop the league averaging 173 passing yards per game with a top-two touchdown tally of 22 this season.

“It all starts with finding ways to contain Jackson,” he said. “He was the offensive player of the year last year for a reason and we’ll have to play mistake play football while remaining aggressive on him.”

While Salina’s playoff hopes should be in good shape, the team remains laser-focused on taking things one game at a time and will have plenty of motivation to try and sweep the Beef in front of a rowdy Omaha crowd on Saturday.

Kickoff between the Liberty and Beef is set for 7:05 PM in Omaha and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

By TYLER HENRY JC Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617409785202.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>With just four games to play in the regular season, the 4-2 Salina Liberty will begin a long road stretch with a Saturday evening showdown against the Omaha Beef.Salina took the first meeting between the two back in March as the team pulled out a fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the reigning champs 36-31.“Most of these games come down to who makes more plays in the fourth quarter and in the first meeting with Omaha we got the big play when it mattered most to win it,” Salina Head Coach Heron O’Neal said.The Liberty have been heating up at the right time, handing the Billings Outlaws their second loss of the season last week to advance to 4-2, vaulting themselves into third place in the CIF in the process.“That was a great win in front of a great crowd,” O’Neal said. “Our defense and special teams played phenomenally and our offense woke up in the fourth quarter. It was great but we’re on to Omaha now.”This iteration of the Beef will look much different from the one Salina faced in week two, and may look a lot more like the team they fell to in last year's CIF Championship game.“Omaha got some big pieces back from last year’s team that they didn’t have on the roster the first time we played them,” he said. “This game will be a little bit different and we’ll have to make some adjustments.” The Liberty will have a few new faces to throw at Omaha themselves as rookie quarterback Vincent Espinoza prepares to make his third-ever CIF start hoping to remain undefeated in his Liberty career.While Salina has won both games with Espinoza under center, ball protection and downfield vision will be paramount in a high-stakes game like this.“We haven’t protected the football well in these last few games and we have to cut down on our turnovers and make better decisions,” O’Neal said. “With that being said we have to be willing to take our shots, we’ve left a lot of points on the board these last few weeks.”On the other side the Liberty defense, which ranks best in the league allowing just 28 points per game, will once again be tasked with slowing quarterback Andrew Jackson. Jackson sits atop the league averaging 173 passing yards per game with a top-two touchdown tally of 22 this season.“It all starts with finding ways to contain Jackson,” he said. “He was the offensive player of the year last year for a reason and we’ll have to play mistake play football while remaining aggressive on him.”While Salina’s playoff hopes should be in good shape, the team remains laser-focused on taking things one game at a time and will have plenty of motivation to try and sweep the Beef in front of a rowdy Omaha crowd on Saturday.Kickoff between the Liberty and Beef is set for 7:05 PM in Omaha and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

Fresh faces headline rematch between Liberty and Beef

DENVER (AP) — Andrew Benintendi hit a two-run homer and an RBI triple, Hunter Dozier had his first career five-hit game and the Kansas City Royals broke out of their offensive funk in a 14-10 victory over the bumbling Colorado Rockies. Ryan O’Hearn also homered, Michael A. Taylor had three hits and drove in two, and Bobby Witt Jr. delivered a two-run triple for the Royals, who entered the night with the second fewest runs in the majors. Brendan Rodgers hit a two-run homer, doubled twice and drove in four, and Sam Hilliard homered for the Rockies in their fifth straight loss.

DENVER (AP) — Andrew Benintendi hit a two-run homer and an RBI triple, Hunter Dozier had his first career five-hit game and the Kansas City Royals broke out of their offensive funk in a 14-10 victory over the bumbling Colorado Rockies. Ryan O’Hearn also homered, Michael A. Taylor had three hits and drove in two, and Bobby Witt Jr. delivered a two-run triple for the Royals, who entered the night with the second fewest runs in the majors. Brendan Rodgers hit a two-run homer, doubled twice and drove in four, and Sam Hilliard homered for the Rockies in their fifth straight loss.

Royals break out the offense

Despite a 2-2 start, several early-season suspensions, and the loss of both reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Tyrie Adams and MVP Tracy Brooks, the Salina Liberty look like strong contenders again as the team heads into the final four games of their season.

When at full strength, the Liberty are a perfect 4-0 with big wins over two title rivals in Omaha and Billings, sitting in a tie for third going into the final month of the season at 4-2.

“We’ve faced a lot of adversity this year, some self-inflicted and some not, but I’ve been really proud of our guys for how they’ve handled that adversity,” Salina HC Heron O’Neal said. “We’ve shown a lot of resolve and that all starts with our ownership group, our coaching staff, and our players who have stepped up when we’ve needed them.”

The Liberty returned a ton of talent from last year’s 9-1 squad, and that veteran leadership has been an anchor for the team throughout some of this year's storms.

By TYLER HENRY JC Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Salina Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Salina Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite a 2-2 start, several early-season suspensions, and the loss of both reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Tyrie Adams and MVP Tracy Brooks, the Salina Liberty look like strong contenders again as the team heads into the final four games of their season.When at full strength, the Liberty are a perfect 4-0 with big wins over two title rivals in Omaha and Billings, sitting in a tie for third going into the final month of the season at 4-2.“We’ve faced a lot of adversity this year, some self-inflicted and some not, but I’ve been really proud of our guys for how they’ve handled that adversity,” Salina HC Heron O’Neal said. “We’ve shown a lot of resolve and that all starts with our ownership group, our coaching staff, and our players who have stepped up when we’ve needed them.”The Liberty returned a ton of talent from last year’s 9-1 squad, and that veteran leadership has been an anchor for the team throughout some of this year's storms.“It’s definitely crucial to have people like K-Hop and Travis Taylor to anchor your defense and to have guys like Kelvin McCoy on offense,” O’Neal said. “Those are the guys that understand the way we do things and they’ve helped some of the younger guys to add their own leadership to this team.”Among the newcomers on offense, Salina has gotten a big boost from Aleki Tapa on the O-Line, as well as Tre Griffin and Tristan Gould who stepped up big in Tracy Brooks’ absence.“Our running backs outside of Tracy didn’t come in with a lot of hype but Tre has been top two in the league in every big stat category and Tristan has given us that power run game and has been big on special teams,” he said.Salina also had to fill a hole left by quarterback Tyrie Adams, who signed a CFL contract with the Ottowa Redblacks, becoming the third member of the Liberty and the 64th player in the 17-year career of Heron O’Neal to sign at the next level.“I’m so happy for Tyrie,” O’Neal said. “This is one of the biggest reasons I’m here. My philosophy is to win games but it’s also to get these kids opportunities to play at the next level. This is part of the Salina Liberty way.”In Adams’ stead, Salina has turned to rookie QB Vincent Espinoza who has looked sharp in his first two CIF starts, helping lead the team to two wins to begin his Liberty career.While the offense has gotten the job done this season, it has once again been the defense that the Liberty hang their hat on as Salina boasts one of the most formidable groups in the league.The Liberty allow the fewest points per game in the CIF (28) and are top three in the league in interceptions, fumbles recovered, sacks, and yards allowed both on the ground and through the air.Much of that success can be attributed to the aforementioned leadership of Kendrick Harper and Travis Taylor, but the team has also gotten big production from Tron Folsom and Dewayne Autrey as the Salina secondary has tallied twelve picks already.This year's playoff format will see the top six teams in the CIF make the postseason with the top two earning byes.Going into the final four games Sioux City leads the way at 6-0 followed by 5-2 Southwest Kansas, 4-2 Salina and Billings, and 4-3 Omaha.The Liberty will face a road gauntlet down the stretch with trips to Omaha on the 14th, Sioux City on the 21st, and SW Kansas on June 4th with one final home game coming against Topeka on May 28th.