Over the weekend, Hannah Micheel represented the Junction City Lady Jay tennis team at the 6A state tennis tournament held at the CBAC in Olathe. 

On Friday, Micheel started out her day with a 6-0, 6-1 win over Katie Rouse from Dodge City.  She then competed against Lindsay Ruder from Olathe West, but lost 6-4, 6-3 to drop into the backside of the bracket.

Micheel then won her next two matches over Anja Meier from Haysville Campus 8-4 and Ilah Hull from Shawnee Mission East 8-2 to qualify for the Day 2 medal rounds.

On Saturday, Micheel started out losing her first match to Cami Lee from Lawrence Free State.  She then bounced back to defeat Mia Huettenmueller from Olathe East 8-1 and then won vs Prisha Dalal, from Blue Valley North, 8-6 to earn the 9th place medal. 

Overall, Micheel went 5-2 over the two day tournament, helping Junction City finish in 13th place with 6 points.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760966709959.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Matt MicheelJCHS Tennis CoachOver the weekend, Hannah Micheel represented the Junction City Lady Jay tennis team at the 6A state tennis tournament held at the CBAC in Olathe. On Friday, Micheel started out her day with a 6-0, 6-1 win over Katie Rouse from Dodge City. She then competed against Lindsay Ruder from Olathe West, but lost 6-4, 6-3 to drop into the backside of the bracket.Micheel then won her next two matches over Anja Meier from Haysville Campus 8-4 and Ilah Hull from Shawnee Mission East 8-2 to qualify for the Day 2 medal rounds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760966801228.jpeg" alt="Hannah Micheel represents the Junction City Lady Jay Tennis team by placing Ninth at State Tennis in Olathe.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hannah Micheel represents the Junction City Lady Jay Tennis team by placing Ninth at State Tennis in Olathe.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, Micheel started out losing her first match to Cami Lee from Lawrence Free State. She then bounced back to defeat Mia Huettenmueller from Olathe East 8-1 and then won vs Prisha Dalal, from Blue Valley North, 8-6 to earn the 9th place medal. Overall, Micheel went 5-2 over the two day tournament, helping Junction City finish in 13th place with 6 points.

Lady Jay Tennis Player, Hannah Micheel, places 9th at State Tennis

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and its television partners announced on Monday that the game time and television designation for Kansas State’s November 1 Harley Day contest against Texas Tech has been held for a six-day selection. The game time and broadcast will be announced either late Saturday night or Sunday morning.

The Wildcats lead the all-time series over the Red Raiders, 15-9, thanks to wins in each of the last eight meetings and 12 of the last 13 contests. K-State earned a 38-21 victory at Texas Tech in 2023 as the teams did not meet last season. In the last game in Manhattan, the Wildcats picked up a 37-28 victory in 2022.

Tickets to the game against Texas Tech can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and its television partners announced on Monday that the game time and television designation for Kansas State’s November 1 Harley Day contest against Texas Tech has been held for a six-day selection. The game time and broadcast will be announced either late Saturday night or Sunday morning.The Wildcats lead the all-time series over the Red Raiders, 15-9, thanks to wins in each of the last eight meetings and 12 of the last 13 contests. K-State earned a 38-21 victory at Texas Tech in 2023 as the teams did not meet last season. In the last game in Manhattan, the Wildcats picked up a 37-28 victory in 2022.Tickets to the game against Texas Tech can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

K-State’s Game vs. Texas Tech Held for Six-Day Selection

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs so thoroughly dominated the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday that they probably didn't need Rashee Rice, who had come back from a torn ACL and a six-game suspension to give them yet another dynamic weapon.

The rest of the season? Well, the Chiefs think Rice may be the last piece they need to chase another championship.

“We have a lot of weapons. We have a lot of guys and they all love each other, and they want each other to succeed,” said quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who threw for 286 yards and three touchdowns — two of them to Rice — in a 31-0 victory so lopsided that the two-time league MVP got to spend the entire fourth quarter watching it from the bench.

“We want to be better than what we are now,” Mahomes said, “but this was a good step in the right direction.”

Rice finished with seven catches for 42 yards in his first game&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-rashee-rice-9475202aa5efade7b9a9be140e2c798c">since Week 4 last season,</a>&nbsp;when he tore up his knee in a collision with Mahomes. Rice made it back from the injury in time to participate in the offseason and training camp, then was suspended before the start of the season for his role in a high-speed car crash on a Dallas highway in March 2024.

Rice's return sparked an offense that scored on its first five possessions against Las Vegas and finished with 434 yards in all.

“I think it's a glimpse of what's possible,” Rice said, “and what's to come.”

It didn't help ailing Las Vegas to play most of the game&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/las-vegas-raiders-kansas-city-chiefs-36d67adf45a07ee045b9e377dae23b07">without star pass rusher Maxx Crosby</a>, who left late in the first half with a knee injury. The Raiders also lost defensive tackle Adam Butler to a back injury during the game.

The Chiefs (4-3) were nearly as good on defense, though, holding the Raiders to three first downs and 96 yards while beating them for the 10th time in the last 11 matchups. Geno Smith finished 10 of 16 for 67 yards, while Ashton Jeanty, one of the NFL's top rookies, carried just six times for 21 yards.

It was the fourth and most lopsided shutout by Kansas City in its 133-game history against the Raiders.

“This was a game I didn't see coming,” Raiders coach Pete Carroll said. “We prepared really well. We were tuned in. I couldn't imagine the guys that weren't able to play in this game would have been that much of a factor.”

In truth, the Chiefs had started to hum the past couple of weeks, including in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis-5ebcfaffabfb346389fc4fe5bd53e019">a 30-17 rout of the Lions</a>&nbsp;last week. And with Rice, it looked like the high-flying attack that Mahomes made famous with Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill so many years ago.

Rice had a pair of catches on their opening drive, including a 2-yard touchdown reception to finish off the 92-yard march. He had two more on the next drive, an 84-yard trek that Marquise Brown finished with a TD catch. And Rice capped the Chiefs' big first half with a 3-yard touchdown reception with 10 seconds left to make it 21-0 at the break.

“I think you saw the trust that Pat has in him,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid. “The energy he brings is infectious.”

The lopsided nature of the first half was staggering.

The Chiefs had a 21-2 advantage in first downs. They had a 275-51 edge in yards, and that includes six meaningless yards that Jeanty gained on the final run of the half. And the Chiefs became the first team since at least 2000 to start a game with three TD drives of at least 80 yards, allowing them to consume nearly 21 minutes of the first half.

Oh, and the Chiefs got to receive the second-half kickoff.

They proceeded to march 65 yards for another touchdown, this time with Isiah Pacheco doing the honors on the ground to finish it off. And after another three-and-out by the Raiders, a 66-yard march produced a field goal that made it 31-0.

Mahomes and several starters took a seat by the end of the third quarter, allowing Gardner Minshew to finish the rout.

“Very seldom do you have a fourth quarter where you don't throw the ball. It doesn't happen very often,” Reid said.

The only question remaining was whether the Raiders would make it back across midfield again. They made it for two offensive plays on the first drive of the game, when a holding call on Jackson Powers-Johnson led to them eventually punting.

“They're a terrific team,” Carroll said. “They did everything like they do. And the played really well in all phases, and they kept us totally at bay. We couldn't make a first down and couldn't get off the field. They just did like they do.”

Las Vegas: WR Jakobi Meyers (knee) and TE Brock Bowers (knee) were inactive. Crosby and Butler only added to the problems.

Kansas City: LT Josh Simmons was inactive due to personal reasons. LG Trey Smith left with a back injury, DT Omar-Norman Lott hurt his knee and RT Jawaan Taylor banged up his shoulder.

The Raiders are off next week before facing Jacksonville on Nov. 2.

The Chiefs play Washington next Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760955663755.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) is pushed out of bounds by Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Devin White (45) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) is pushed out of bounds by Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Devin White (45) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs so thoroughly dominated the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday that they probably didn't need Rashee Rice, who had come back from a torn ACL and a six-game suspension to give them yet another dynamic weapon.The rest of the season? Well, the Chiefs think Rice may be the last piece they need to chase another championship.“We have a lot of weapons. We have a lot of guys and they all love each other, and they want each other to succeed,” said quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who threw for 286 yards and three touchdowns — two of them to Rice — in a 31-0 victory so lopsided that the two-time league MVP got to spend the entire fourth quarter watching it from the bench.“We want to be better than what we are now,” Mahomes said, “but this was a good step in the right direction.”Rice finished with seven catches for 42 yards in his first game&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-rashee-rice-9475202aa5efade7b9a9be140e2c798c">since Week 4 last season,</a>&nbsp;when he tore up his knee in a collision with Mahomes. Rice made it back from the injury in time to participate in the offseason and training camp, then was suspended before the start of the season for his role in a high-speed car crash on a Dallas highway in March 2024.Rice's return sparked an offense that scored on its first five possessions against Las Vegas and finished with 434 yards in all.“I think it's a glimpse of what's possible,” Rice said, “and what's to come.”It didn't help ailing Las Vegas to play most of the game&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/las-vegas-raiders-kansas-city-chiefs-36d67adf45a07ee045b9e377dae23b07">without star pass rusher Maxx Crosby</a>, who left late in the first half with a knee injury. The Raiders also lost defensive tackle Adam Butler to a back injury during the game.The Chiefs (4-3) were nearly as good on defense, though, holding the Raiders to three first downs and 96 yards while beating them for the 10th time in the last 11 matchups. Geno Smith finished 10 of 16 for 67 yards, while Ashton Jeanty, one of the NFL's top rookies, carried just six times for 21 yards.It was the fourth and most lopsided shutout by Kansas City in its 133-game history against the Raiders.“This was a game I didn't see coming,” Raiders coach Pete Carroll said. “We prepared really well. We were tuned in. I couldn't imagine the guys that weren't able to play in this game would have been that much of a factor.”In truth, the Chiefs had started to hum the past couple of weeks, including in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis-5ebcfaffabfb346389fc4fe5bd53e019">a 30-17 rout of the Lions</a>&nbsp;last week. And with Rice, it looked like the high-flying attack that Mahomes made famous with Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill so many years ago.Rice had a pair of catches on their opening drive, including a 2-yard touchdown reception to finish off the 92-yard march. He had two more on the next drive, an 84-yard trek that Marquise Brown finished with a TD catch. And Rice capped the Chiefs' big first half with a 3-yard touchdown reception with 10 seconds left to make it 21-0 at the break.“I think you saw the trust that Pat has in him,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid. “The energy he brings is infectious.”The lopsided nature of the first half was staggering.The Chiefs had a 21-2 advantage in first downs. They had a 275-51 edge in yards, and that includes six meaningless yards that Jeanty gained on the final run of the half. And the Chiefs became the first team since at least 2000 to start a game with three TD drives of at least 80 yards, allowing them to consume nearly 21 minutes of the first half.Oh, and the Chiefs got to receive the second-half kickoff.They proceeded to march 65 yards for another touchdown, this time with Isiah Pacheco doing the honors on the ground to finish it off. And after another three-and-out by the Raiders, a 66-yard march produced a field goal that made it 31-0.Mahomes and several starters took a seat by the end of the third quarter, allowing Gardner Minshew to finish the rout.“Very seldom do you have a fourth quarter where you don't throw the ball. It doesn't happen very often,” Reid said.The only question remaining was whether the Raiders would make it back across midfield again. They made it for two offensive plays on the first drive of the game, when a holding call on Jackson Powers-Johnson led to them eventually punting.The answer: They did not come close.“They're a terrific team,” Carroll said. “They did everything like they do. And the played really well in all phases, and they kept us totally at bay. We couldn't make a first down and couldn't get off the field. They just did like they do.”<h2>Injuries</h2>Las Vegas: WR Jakobi Meyers (knee) and TE Brock Bowers (knee) were inactive. Crosby and Butler only added to the problems.Kansas City: LT Josh Simmons was inactive due to personal reasons. LG Trey Smith left with a back injury, DT Omar-Norman Lott hurt his knee and RT Jawaan Taylor banged up his shoulder.<h2>Up Next</h2>The Raiders are off next week before facing Jacksonville on Nov. 2.The Chiefs play Washington next Monday night.

 🏈 Rashee Rice returns with 2 TDs as Chiefs rout the Raiders

On homecoming night, in front of a packed crowd at Blue Jay Stadium, the Junction City Blue Jays beat the Washburn Rural Junior Blues 35-20 on Friday night.

The Junction City offense took the field to begin the game on Friday night, looking to build off its 44-point performance in week six at Topeka High. The Blue Jays wasted no time and got into a rhythm right away, running and throwing the ball. JC took five and a half minutes off the clock on the opening drive of the game and scored on a four-yard jet sweep play to senior Lovell Autry. (The Blue Jays actually got in the wildcat formation for this play, with junior linebacker Khaliel Walker taking the snap and giving it off to Autry, who scored when he ran from left to right into the end zone.) JC led 7-0 after the opening drive.

Washburn Rural, like they always do, responded with a nice drive of their own. After picking up a quick first down to begin their drive, running back Jayden Baum broke free from the Blue Jay defense and scored on a 51-yard run to tie the game at 7-7 with 5:08 to go in the first quarter. 7-7 was the score at the end of the first quarter.

On the first play of the second quarter, on third-and-four from the Junior Blue five-yard line, senior quarterback Conrad Gomez hit senior receiver Lovell Autry in the end zone for his second touchdown of the game. JC took a 14-7 lead into halftime.

To begin the second half, Washburn Rural had a backup quarterback in the game after their starter, John Hoytal, was carted off the field on a stretcher late in the first half. Credit to the Junior Blues and backup QB Gavin Vantuyl, who scored on a 31-yard quarterback keeper on a run-pass-option (RPO) play early in the third quarter.

Then, the game changed. For the first time this season, the special teams unit for Junction City put a touchdown on the board.

Tied at 14 with 8:56 to go in the third, Washburn Rural kicked it deep, and Kingston Timms caught the punt at his own five-yard line. Timms returned the ball up the sideline, cut back into the middle of the field, and they did not catch him. A 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown put the Blue Jays back in front by a touchdown, and JC led 21-14 with 8:43 to go in the third quarter.

The Blue Jays tacked on two more touchdowns in the third quarter, one a pass from Gomez to junior Brody Boeckman, and the other a wildcat rushing touchdown by junior Khaliel Walker. JC led 35-14 at the end of the third quarter.

Washburn Rural added a touchdown with four minutes to go in the game, but the extra point was blocked, and JCHS held on to win 35-20.

With the win, the Blue Jays improve to 5-2 on the year and host Emporia next Friday night for senior night. (If Junction City wins, they will win the Centennial League outright.)

Washburn Rural falls to 5-2 and hosts Manhattan next Friday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760770696190.jpeg" alt="Blue Jay Captains for the Homecoming game. #3 Conrad Gomez, #8 Khaliel Walker, #2 Lovell Autry, and #28 Trevon Briley." />
 <figcaption>Blue Jay Captains for the Homecoming game. #3 Conrad Gomez, #8 Khaliel Walker, #2 Lovell Autry, and #28 Trevon Briley.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostOn homecoming night, in front of a packed crowd at Blue Jay Stadium, the Junction City Blue Jays beat the Washburn Rural Junior Blues 35-20 on Friday night.The Junction City offense took the field to begin the game on Friday night, looking to build off its 44-point performance in week six at Topeka High. The Blue Jays wasted no time and got into a rhythm right away, running and throwing the ball. JC took five and a half minutes off the clock on the opening drive of the game and scored on a four-yard jet sweep play to senior Lovell Autry. (The Blue Jays actually got in the wildcat formation for this play, with junior linebacker Khaliel Walker taking the snap and giving it off to Autry, who scored when he ran from left to right into the end zone.) JC led 7-0 after the opening drive.Washburn Rural, like they always do, responded with a nice drive of their own. After picking up a quick first down to begin their drive, running back Jayden Baum broke free from the Blue Jay defense and scored on a 51-yard run to tie the game at 7-7 with 5:08 to go in the first quarter. 7-7 was the score at the end of the first quarter.On the first play of the second quarter, on third-and-four from the Junior Blue five-yard line, senior quarterback Conrad Gomez hit senior receiver Lovell Autry in the end zone for his second touchdown of the game. JC took a 14-7 lead into halftime.To begin the second half, Washburn Rural had a backup quarterback in the game after their starter, John Hoytal, was carted off the field on a stretcher late in the first half. Credit to the Junior Blues and backup QB Gavin Vantuyl, who scored on a 31-yard quarterback keeper on a run-pass-option (RPO) play early in the third quarter.Then, the game changed. For the first time this season, the special teams unit for Junction City put a touchdown on the board.Tied at 14 with 8:56 to go in the third, Washburn Rural kicked it deep, and Kingston Timms caught the punt at his own five-yard line. Timms returned the ball up the sideline, cut back into the middle of the field, and they did not catch him. A 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown put the Blue Jays back in front by a touchdown, and JC led 21-14 with 8:43 to go in the third quarter.The Blue Jays tacked on two more touchdowns in the third quarter, one a pass from Gomez to junior Brody Boeckman, and the other a wildcat rushing touchdown by junior Khaliel Walker. JC led 35-14 at the end of the third quarter.Washburn Rural added a touchdown with four minutes to go in the game, but the extra point was blocked, and JCHS held on to win 35-20.With the win, the Blue Jays improve to 5-2 on the year and host Emporia next Friday night for senior night. (If Junction City wins, they will win the Centennial League outright.)Washburn Rural falls to 5-2 and hosts Manhattan next Friday night.

Blue Jays Beat Washburn Rural, Clinch at Least a Share of the Centennial League Title

Tonight is the Homecoming game at Junction City High School! 

The Junction City Blue Jays (4-2) welcome in the Washburn Rural Junior Blues (5-1) into Blue Jay Stadium.&nbsp;

You can Listen Live on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio or <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">by clicking here.</a>

You can<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/cUED28aTwWI?si=iWOVmolSdojN1N3m"> Watch Live here&nbsp;on YouTube.</a>

Pregame show begins at 6:30 p.m., and kickoff will be at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The crowing of homecoming royalty will be done at halftime. 

**The winner of tonight's game will win at least a share of the Centennial League Title.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760742397723.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Tonight is the Homecoming game at Junction City High School! The Junction City Blue Jays (4-2) welcome in the Washburn Rural Junior Blues (5-1) into Blue Jay Stadium.&nbsp;You can Listen Live on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio or <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">by clicking here.</a>You can<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/cUED28aTwWI?si=iWOVmolSdojN1N3m"> Watch Live here&nbsp;on YouTube.</a>Pregame show begins at 6:30 p.m., and kickoff will be at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;The crowing of homecoming royalty will be done at halftime. **The winner of tonight's game will win at least a share of the Centennial League Title.&nbsp;

WATCH/LISTEN LIVE: Junction City Football vs. Washburn Rural

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and TNT Sports announced on Monday that the Dillons Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas in Lawrence on October 25 will kick at 11 a.m. and be shown on TNT with a simulcast on truTV and HBO MAX.

Kansas leads the all-time series, 64-53-5 – including a 37-23-2 mark in Lawrence – but the Wildcats have won each of the last 16 meetings, including each of the last eight inside Memorial Stadium.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and TNT Sports announced on Monday that the Dillons Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas in Lawrence on October 25 will kick at 11 a.m. and be shown on TNT with a simulcast on truTV and HBO MAX.Kansas leads the all-time series, 64-53-5 – including a 37-23-2 mark in Lawrence – but the Wildcats have won each of the last 16 meetings, including each of the last eight inside Memorial Stadium..

 Dillons Sunflower Showdown Set for Morning Kick

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Following his two-interception performance in Kansas State’s 41-28 Homecoming victory over TCU, senior linebacker&nbsp;Des Purnell&nbsp;has been named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week, the conference office announced on Monday.

It is the first-ever conference weekly award for Purnell and the first for a Wildcat defender since Kobe Savage earned the nod after the Texas Tech contest in 2023.

A native of Topeka, Kansas, Purnell came away with eight tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, a sack and two pass breakups in addition to his two picks. On back-to-back plays in the third quarter, Purnell recorded an eight-yard sack before picking off a pass and returning it 25 yards for a touchdown. It was K-State’s first pick-6 since current San Francisco 49er Marques Sigle returned an interception 43 yards for a score last year at West Virginia.

Purnell had another interception in the fourth quarter, one he returned 21 yards that led to a K-State field goal to make it a three-score game.

Following an off week, Kansas State travels to Lawrence to take on Kansas on October 25. The Dillons Sunflower Showdown is slated for an 11 a.m., kick and will be shown on TNT with a simulcast on truTV and HBO MAX. The Wildcats are back at home on November 1 when they take on Texas Tech. Tickets for that contest can be purchased at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Following his two-interception performance in Kansas State’s 41-28 Homecoming victory over TCU, senior linebacker&nbsp;Des Purnell&nbsp;has been named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week, the conference office announced on Monday.It is the first-ever conference weekly award for Purnell and the first for a Wildcat defender since Kobe Savage earned the nod after the Texas Tech contest in 2023.A native of Topeka, Kansas, Purnell came away with eight tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, a sack and two pass breakups in addition to his two picks. On back-to-back plays in the third quarter, Purnell recorded an eight-yard sack before picking off a pass and returning it 25 yards for a touchdown. It was K-State’s first pick-6 since current San Francisco 49er Marques Sigle returned an interception 43 yards for a score last year at West Virginia.Purnell had another interception in the fourth quarter, one he returned 21 yards that led to a K-State field goal to make it a three-score game.Following an off week, Kansas State travels to Lawrence to take on Kansas on October 25. The Dillons Sunflower Showdown is slated for an 11 a.m., kick and will be shown on TNT with a simulcast on truTV and HBO MAX. The Wildcats are back at home on November 1 when they take on Texas Tech. Tickets for that contest can be purchased at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

 K-State’s Purnell Named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week

The Lady Jay tennis team competed in the 6A Regional Tennis tournament this past Friday.&nbsp; The tournament was hosted by Wichita Southeast at the Riverside Tennis Complex in Wichita.

Leading the way for the Lady Jays was Hannah Micheel.&nbsp; She finished as the singles regional runner up going 3-1 on the day.&nbsp; Zoey Micheel won her first match over Manhattan 6-4, 6-1 before losing her next two rounds. In doubles, Emma Young and Maddi Sederlin won their first match 6-0, 6-0 over Wichita Heights before dropping their next two matches.&nbsp; The other doubles team of Hannah Huddleston and Addi Sederlin dropped their lone match of the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Overall, Junction City finished in 3rd&nbsp;place.&nbsp; Washburn Rural won the regional title.&nbsp; Hannah Micheel will represent the Lady Jay tennis team at the 6A State Tennis Tournament Friday and Saturday, October 17-18 in Olathe.&nbsp; Matches will begin at 10 am and will be held at the College Boulevard Activity Center.&nbsp;

The Lady Jay tennis team competed in the 6A Regional Tennis tournament this past Friday.&nbsp; The tournament was hosted by Wichita Southeast at the Riverside Tennis Complex in Wichita.Leading the way for the Lady Jays was Hannah Micheel.&nbsp; She finished as the singles regional runner up going 3-1 on the day.&nbsp; Zoey Micheel won her first match over Manhattan 6-4, 6-1 before losing her next two rounds. In doubles, Emma Young and Maddi Sederlin won their first match 6-0, 6-0 over Wichita Heights before dropping their next two matches.&nbsp; The other doubles team of Hannah Huddleston and Addi Sederlin dropped their lone match of the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;Overall, Junction City finished in 3rd&nbsp;place.&nbsp; Washburn Rural won the regional title.&nbsp; Hannah Micheel will represent the Lady Jay tennis team at the 6A State Tennis Tournament Friday and Saturday, October 17-18 in Olathe.&nbsp; Matches will begin at 10 am and will be held at the College Boulevard Activity Center.&nbsp;

Lady Jay Regional Tennis update

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs knew they were going to have a fight on their hands when the Detroit Lions, riding a four-game winning streak and a whole bunch of momentum, rolled into Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday night.

They probably didn't expect their dominant performance to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lions-chiefs-fight-brian-branch-e1f8f03a80052ad16856673846b2791c">end with an actual fistfight</a>.

Mahomes threw for 257 yards and three touchdowns, scrambled for another score, and led Kansas City to a 30-17 victory that was so comprehensive that Lions safety Brian Branch boiled over at its conclusion. Branch delivered a right hook to Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster as the teams were coming together at midfield, touching off a brief melee among players.

“It is what it is,” Mahomes said. “You just kind of move on. We won the football game.”

Marquise Brown had two touchdown receptions and Xavier Worthy had another for the Chiefs (3-3), who played a near-flawless game — no penalties, no turnovers — one week after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis-1bf025fe0f083690f71bc75f47417202">a mistake-strewn, last-second loss</a>&nbsp;at Jacksonville.

Kansas City also managed to hold in check the NFL's highest-scoring offense to snap Detroit's winning streak.

“We just didn't make the plays we needed to make,” said Lions coach Dan Campbell, who began his postgame briefing by saying that Branch's cheap shot was “inexcusable and not going to be accepted here," and that he had apologized to the Chiefs for it.

“We were able to do some good things in phases at times but not enough for a team like that with the pedigrees they have,” Campbell continued. “We were not able to compliment each other and we were not able to make it a game, really. We weren't.”

Jared Goff finished with 203 yards passing for the Lions (4-2), though he did connect with Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta for scores. Amon-Ra St. Brown was held to 45 yards receiving and Jahmyr Gibbs needed 17 carries to gain just 65 yards.

Detroit was intent on trying to grind down the Chiefs' defense and keep their potent offense off the field.

The Lions did a good job on the opening drive, too. They ran 15 plays over a 9:39 span, chewing up so much clock that Mahomes looked downright bored on the sideline. And it looked as if it would pay off when David Montgomery took a direct snap and threw to Goff, who powered into the end zone from a yard out for a touchdown.

But the officials came together to discuss the play, and even though nobody had thrown a flag, they eventually said Goff was not set — an illegal motion penalty. After a delay of game, the Lions had to settle for Jake Bates' chip-shot field goal.

“I've got to do a little research on exactly what went wrong,” Goff said.

Kansas City wasted no time answering, marching 70 yards in eight plays. Mahomes hit three receivers on the drive, and Worthy hauled in a 6-yard touchdown pass on fourth-and-goal to give the Chiefs the lead.

The back-and-forth continued throughout the first half: The Lions went the other way with Williams grabbing a 22-yard pass to give them the lead back, and the Chiefs answered with Mahomes scoring on a keeper for a 13-10 edge at halftime.

“It was important to get that lead back and get the momentum and get the crowd going,” Mahomes said.

The banged-up Lions defense, missing cornerbacks D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold and Avonte Maddox, couldn't slow down the Chiefs, who are finding their offensive mojo again just in time to get suspended wide receiver Rashee Rice back next week.

They roared downfield on the opening drive of the second half, this time with Marquise Brown hauling in the touchdown catch to extend the lead. And when the Lions finally answered behind a flurry of passes to St. Brown and a nifty toss to LaPorta in the end zone, Kansas City rolled right back downfield as Marquise Brown pulled in another touchdown reception for a 27-17 lead.

Detroit proceeded to go three-and-out, and the Chiefs put the game away from there.

“I'm disappointing, you know? I'm disappointed, because it's been a long time ago since you were watching someone kneel it three times in front of you, and it's not even close,” Campbell said. “We got worked pretty good. So yeah, it's disappointing.”

The Chiefs played&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-detroit-lions-e5f1f4336f1f82195304345e8a892b7b">without left tackle Josh Simmons,</a>&nbsp;their first-round pick, who had a personal issue that kept him from making it back to Kansas City for the game. Jaylon Moore played well in his place against Aidan Hutchinson and the Detroit pass rush.

Mahomes has 302 career touchdown passes, including the postseason, becoming the quickest player in NFL history to reach the 300 mark. He accomplished the feat in 139 games, eight faster than Aaron Rodgers, to the delight of a crowd that included Taylor Swift — the fiancee of tight end Travis Kelce — and WNBA star Caitlin Clark.

Lions: CB Terrion Arnold (shoulder) and LT Taylor Decker (shoulder) were inactive.

Chiefs: CB Nohl Williams was evaluated for a concussion and cleared in the first half.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760320332355.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs knew they were going to have a fight on their hands when the Detroit Lions, riding a four-game winning streak and a whole bunch of momentum, rolled into Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday night.They probably didn't expect their dominant performance to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lions-chiefs-fight-brian-branch-e1f8f03a80052ad16856673846b2791c">end with an actual fistfight</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A little post game hands never hurt nobody!<a href="https://t.co/W0A0tal25f">pic.twitter.com/W0A0tal25f</a>&mdash; Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) <a href="https://twitter.com/barstoolsports/status/1977572824664715455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Mahomes threw for 257 yards and three touchdowns, scrambled for another score, and led Kansas City to a 30-17 victory that was so comprehensive that Lions safety Brian Branch boiled over at its conclusion. Branch delivered a right hook to Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster as the teams were coming together at midfield, touching off a brief melee among players.“It is what it is,” Mahomes said. “You just kind of move on. We won the football game.”Did they ever.Marquise Brown had two touchdown receptions and Xavier Worthy had another for the Chiefs (3-3), who played a near-flawless game — no penalties, no turnovers — one week after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis-1bf025fe0f083690f71bc75f47417202">a mistake-strewn, last-second loss</a>&nbsp;at Jacksonville.Kansas City also managed to hold in check the NFL's highest-scoring offense to snap Detroit's winning streak.“We just didn't make the plays we needed to make,” said Lions coach Dan Campbell, who began his postgame briefing by saying that Branch's cheap shot was “inexcusable and not going to be accepted here," and that he had apologized to the Chiefs for it.“We were able to do some good things in phases at times but not enough for a team like that with the pedigrees they have,” Campbell continued. “We were not able to compliment each other and we were not able to make it a game, really. We weren't.”Jared Goff finished with 203 yards passing for the Lions (4-2), though he did connect with Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta for scores. Amon-Ra St. Brown was held to 45 yards receiving and Jahmyr Gibbs needed 17 carries to gain just 65 yards.Detroit was intent on trying to grind down the Chiefs' defense and keep their potent offense off the field.The Lions did a good job on the opening drive, too. They ran 15 plays over a 9:39 span, chewing up so much clock that Mahomes looked downright bored on the sideline. And it looked as if it would pay off when David Montgomery took a direct snap and threw to Goff, who powered into the end zone from a yard out for a touchdown.But the officials came together to discuss the play, and even though nobody had thrown a flag, they eventually said Goff was not set — an illegal motion penalty. After a delay of game, the Lions had to settle for Jake Bates' chip-shot field goal.“I've got to do a little research on exactly what went wrong,” Goff said.Kansas City wasted no time answering, marching 70 yards in eight plays. Mahomes hit three receivers on the drive, and Worthy hauled in a 6-yard touchdown pass on fourth-and-goal to give the Chiefs the lead.The back-and-forth continued throughout the first half: The Lions went the other way with Williams grabbing a 22-yard pass to give them the lead back, and the Chiefs answered with Mahomes scoring on a keeper for a 13-10 edge at halftime.“It was important to get that lead back and get the momentum and get the crowd going,” Mahomes said.The banged-up Lions defense, missing cornerbacks D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold and Avonte Maddox, couldn't slow down the Chiefs, who are finding their offensive mojo again just in time to get suspended wide receiver Rashee Rice back next week.They roared downfield on the opening drive of the second half, this time with Marquise Brown hauling in the touchdown catch to extend the lead. And when the Lions finally answered behind a flurry of passes to St. Brown and a nifty toss to LaPorta in the end zone, Kansas City rolled right back downfield as Marquise Brown pulled in another touchdown reception for a 27-17 lead.Detroit proceeded to go three-and-out, and the Chiefs put the game away from there.“I'm disappointing, you know? I'm disappointed, because it's been a long time ago since you were watching someone kneel it three times in front of you, and it's not even close,” Campbell said. “We got worked pretty good. So yeah, it's disappointing.”<h2>Missing Simmons</h2>The Chiefs played&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-detroit-lions-e5f1f4336f1f82195304345e8a892b7b">without left tackle Josh Simmons,</a>&nbsp;their first-round pick, who had a personal issue that kept him from making it back to Kansas City for the game. Jaylon Moore played well in his place against Aidan Hutchinson and the Detroit pass rush.<h2>More on Mahomes</h2>Mahomes has 302 career touchdown passes, including the postseason, becoming the quickest player in NFL history to reach the 300 mark. He accomplished the feat in 139 games, eight faster than Aaron Rodgers, to the delight of a crowd that included Taylor Swift — the fiancee of tight end Travis Kelce — and WNBA star Caitlin Clark.<h2>Injuries</h2>Lions: CB Terrion Arnold (shoulder) and LT Taylor Decker (shoulder) were inactive.Chiefs: CB Nohl Williams was evaluated for a concussion and cleared in the first half.<h2>Up next</h2>Lions: Host Tampa Bay next Monday night.Chiefs: Host Las Vegas next Sunday.

🏈 Mahomes leads the Chiefs to victory over Lions, and a fistfight erupts at the finish

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Cameron Dickey ran for a career-high 263 yards and two long touchdowns, Will Hammond scored twice after replacing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-tech-behren-morton-injury-1c7e3fb079b539e0a158fbc690d0d37c">injured quarterback Behren Morton</a>&nbsp;and No. 9 Texas Tech beat Kansas 42-17 on Saturday night.

Dickey sprinted 71 yards on the first offensive play for the Red Raiders and added a 55-yard TD run early in the fourth quarter. With co-lead back J'Koby Williams slowed by an injury, Dickey had 21 carries, another career best.

Texas Tech (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) had 372 yards rushing and recovered from a malaise after Morton's injury in the school's first game as an AP top 10 team since 2013.

“We felt like we could run the football against the these guys,” coach Joey McGuire said. “Those two guys feed off each other. J’Koby’s a little banged up, and Cam got the majority of the load and offensive line really played well tonight in the run game.”

A 21-0 Texas Tech lead was down to four points at the break when the Jayhawks (4-3, 2-2) scored on three of their first four possessions after Morton appeared to injure his lower right leg on a sack in the second quarter. He didn't return.

Hammond threw an interception and the Red Raiders punted on his other three possessions before halftime. But the redshirt freshman ran 20 yards for a touchdown on the first drive of the second half.

Dickey's second long TD put Texas Tech up 35-17, and Hammond's 10-yard run finished the scoring. Hammond had 61 yards rushing.

It's the third time Hammond has come on with Morton not returning this season. Morton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-tech-behren-morton-injury-13a9ea7986c7bce290c62d0cce241947">hyperextended his right knee</a>&nbsp;in a 67-7 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the season opener and was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-tech-behren-morton-utah-ded4ee663707dff8a8f086842cd111e6">sidelined in a 34-10 win over Utah</a>&nbsp;after taking a hard hit to the head.

Jalon Daniels threw for 228 yards and two touchdowns for Kansas, which dropped to 1-12 in Lubbock and has lost 24 of 26 meetings with the Red Raiders.

“Our margin of error against a top 10 team is going to be pretty small, and we’ve got to play a lot more sound,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “We had trouble blocking them all second half, especially. That’s a really good defensive front. I think it showed up tonight no doubt.”

Kansas: The Jayhawks had all the momentum with the way they finished the first half after Morton's injury. They couldn't sustain it. Kansas punted on its five possessions after the break.

Texas Tech: The Red Raiders gave up some big pass plays to help Kansas get back in the game, but still sacked Daniels eight times. David Bailey had three of them. Texas Tech had a ninth sack on backup Cole Ballard in the final seconds.

Kansas: Off next week before getting rival Kansas State at home Oct. 25.

Texas Tech: At No. 21 Arizona State, the defending Big 12 champion, next Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760237877148.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Cameron Dickey ran for a career-high 263 yards and two long touchdowns, Will Hammond scored twice after replacing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-tech-behren-morton-injury-1c7e3fb079b539e0a158fbc690d0d37c">injured quarterback Behren Morton</a>&nbsp;and No. 9 Texas Tech beat Kansas 42-17 on Saturday night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760244942714.jpeg" alt="Texas Tech running back Cameron Dickey (8) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Annie Rice)" />
 <figcaption>Texas Tech running back Cameron Dickey (8) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Annie Rice)</figcaption>
 </figure>Dickey sprinted 71 yards on the first offensive play for the Red Raiders and added a 55-yard TD run early in the fourth quarter. With co-lead back J'Koby Williams slowed by an injury, Dickey had 21 carries, another career best.Texas Tech (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) had 372 yards rushing and recovered from a malaise after Morton's injury in the school's first game as an AP top 10 team since 2013.“We felt like we could run the football against the these guys,” coach Joey McGuire said. “Those two guys feed off each other. J’Koby’s a little banged up, and Cam got the majority of the load and offensive line really played well tonight in the run game.”A 21-0 Texas Tech lead was down to four points at the break when the Jayhawks (4-3, 2-2) scored on three of their first four possessions after Morton appeared to injure his lower right leg on a sack in the second quarter. He didn't return.Hammond threw an interception and the Red Raiders punted on his other three possessions before halftime. But the redshirt freshman ran 20 yards for a touchdown on the first drive of the second half.Dickey's second long TD put Texas Tech up 35-17, and Hammond's 10-yard run finished the scoring. Hammond had 61 yards rushing.It's the third time Hammond has come on with Morton not returning this season. Morton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-tech-behren-morton-injury-13a9ea7986c7bce290c62d0cce241947">hyperextended his right knee</a>&nbsp;in a 67-7 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the season opener and was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-tech-behren-morton-utah-ded4ee663707dff8a8f086842cd111e6">sidelined in a 34-10 win over Utah</a>&nbsp;after taking a hard hit to the head.Jalon Daniels threw for 228 yards and two touchdowns for Kansas, which dropped to 1-12 in Lubbock and has lost 24 of 26 meetings with the Red Raiders.“Our margin of error against a top 10 team is going to be pretty small, and we’ve got to play a lot more sound,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “We had trouble blocking them all second half, especially. That’s a really good defensive front. I think it showed up tonight no doubt.”<h2>The takeaway</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks had all the momentum with the way they finished the first half after Morton's injury. They couldn't sustain it. Kansas punted on its five possessions after the break.Texas Tech: The Red Raiders gave up some big pass plays to help Kansas get back in the game, but still sacked Daniels eight times. David Bailey had three of them. Texas Tech had a ninth sack on backup Cole Ballard in the final seconds.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: Off next week before getting rival Kansas State at home Oct. 25.Texas Tech: At No. 21 Arizona State, the defending Big 12 champion, next Saturday.

🏈 Dickey runs for 263 yards as No. 9 Texas Tech beats Kansas

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw three touchdown passes — two to Garrett Oakley — and Kansas State added two defensive touchdowns to defeat TCU 41-28 Saturday afternoon. Des Purnell had two interceptions, including a pick-6, for the Wildcats.

“I thought we played well in all three phases at times,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “There’s always going to be things that we’ve got to get better at. But we came out with energy, with urgency. We came out with physicality, and did some really good things.”

Johnson finished 16-of-26 passing for 196 yards for Kansas State (3-4, 2-2 Big 12).

Josh Hoover was 26-of-47 passing for 376 yards and three touchdowns for TCU (4-2, 1-2 Big 12).

“We didn't do a very good job of going out and playing well enough to win,” TCU coach Sonny Dykes said. “It was just kind of a disaster in so many ways.”

K-State took a two-score lead early in the third quarter with its second defensive touchdown of the game. Purnell picked off Hoover and raced 25 yards for the score.

“It kind of feels like high school days all over again with the ball in my hand,” Purnell said. “But that was all set up by the rest of the guys around me.”

Johnson then found Garrett Oakley for his second touchdown, this time from 17 yards out, to give the Wildcats a 28-7 lead with 3:57 left in the third quarter. With that touchdown, Oakley became the all-time leader in touchdown catches among K-State tight ends.

“Avery made really nice throws today,” Oakley said. “I thought he had a really good game, so I’m happy for him as well.

"If you would have told me that (I would be the career leader in touchdowns) when I first got here, I don’t think I’d ever believe you. But this is a process organization, just coming to work every day. I put my head down, going to work is kind of what brought me to this moment.”

TCU used a seven-play, 75-yard drive in just 1:51 to draw within 28-14 late in the fourth quarter. Hoover found Chase Curtis on a 2-yard touchdown on fourth down.

But Johnson found Jarend Bradley for a 12-yard touchdown to give K-State a 35-14 lead.

“I didn’t see us as an underdog going into today’s game, and I don’t see us as a 3-4 team now,” Johnson said. “We just had an unfortunate turn of events early in the year. We didn’t play as well as we wanted to play. Last week at Baylor, things don’t go our way. And you might have one or two of those a year where things don’t go your way, but you win and play well in the other ones to make up for it.”

Hoover connected with Eric McAlister for an 85-yard touchdown, but Purnell's second interception in TCU territory set up a Luis Rodriguez field goal.

TCU got on the scoreboard with a 12-play, 93-yard drive late in the first half. Jeremy Payne went around the left end for a 1-yard touchdown.

Kansas State answered with a 32-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to Oakley, capping a six-play, 75-yard drive to even the score.

On TCU's second play of the ensuing possession, Hoover's pass to Ed Small was ruled a backward pass. It was recovered by Wesley Fair at the TCU 15-yard line. Fair ran it in for a touchdown, giving K-State a 14-7 lead at the half.

TCU: The Horned Frogs waited too long to find their offense. They started each half with anemic offense before getting long drives started.

Kansas State: The Wildcats were opportunistic, scoring twice on defense and holding TCU to 1 of 4 on fourth down.

TCU returns home next Saturday for a morning game against Baylor, while Kansas State has a bye before its “Sunflower Showdown” game at Kansas Oct. 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760231044814.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw three touchdown passes — two to Garrett Oakley — and Kansas State added two defensive touchdowns to defeat TCU 41-28 Saturday afternoon. Des Purnell had two interceptions, including a pick-6, for the Wildcats.“I thought we played well in all three phases at times,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “There’s always going to be things that we’ve got to get better at. But we came out with energy, with urgency. We came out with physicality, and did some really good things.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760244748579.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson looks to pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against TCU, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson looks to pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against TCU, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson finished 16-of-26 passing for 196 yards for Kansas State (3-4, 2-2 Big 12).Josh Hoover was 26-of-47 passing for 376 yards and three touchdowns for TCU (4-2, 1-2 Big 12).“We didn't do a very good job of going out and playing well enough to win,” TCU coach Sonny Dykes said. “It was just kind of a disaster in so many ways.”K-State took a two-score lead early in the third quarter with its second defensive touchdown of the game. Purnell picked off Hoover and raced 25 yards for the score.“It kind of feels like high school days all over again with the ball in my hand,” Purnell said. “But that was all set up by the rest of the guys around me.”Johnson then found Garrett Oakley for his second touchdown, this time from 17 yards out, to give the Wildcats a 28-7 lead with 3:57 left in the third quarter. With that touchdown, Oakley became the all-time leader in touchdown catches among K-State tight ends.“Avery made really nice throws today,” Oakley said. “I thought he had a really good game, so I’m happy for him as well."If you would have told me that (I would be the career leader in touchdowns) when I first got here, I don’t think I’d ever believe you. But this is a process organization, just coming to work every day. I put my head down, going to work is kind of what brought me to this moment.”TCU used a seven-play, 75-yard drive in just 1:51 to draw within 28-14 late in the fourth quarter. Hoover found Chase Curtis on a 2-yard touchdown on fourth down.But Johnson found Jarend Bradley for a 12-yard touchdown to give K-State a 35-14 lead.“I didn’t see us as an underdog going into today’s game, and I don’t see us as a 3-4 team now,” Johnson said. “We just had an unfortunate turn of events early in the year. We didn’t play as well as we wanted to play. Last week at Baylor, things don’t go our way. And you might have one or two of those a year where things don’t go your way, but you win and play well in the other ones to make up for it.”Hoover connected with Eric McAlister for an 85-yard touchdown, but Purnell's second interception in TCU territory set up a Luis Rodriguez field goal.TCU got on the scoreboard with a 12-play, 93-yard drive late in the first half. Jeremy Payne went around the left end for a 1-yard touchdown.Kansas State answered with a 32-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to Oakley, capping a six-play, 75-yard drive to even the score.On TCU's second play of the ensuing possession, Hoover's pass to Ed Small was ruled a backward pass. It was recovered by Wesley Fair at the TCU 15-yard line. Fair ran it in for a touchdown, giving K-State a 14-7 lead at the half.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>TCU: The Horned Frogs waited too long to find their offense. They started each half with anemic offense before getting long drives started.Kansas State: The Wildcats were opportunistic, scoring twice on defense and holding TCU to 1 of 4 on fourth down.<h2>Up Next</h2>TCU returns home next Saturday for a morning game against Baylor, while Kansas State has a bye before its “Sunflower Showdown” game at Kansas Oct. 25.

🏈Avery Johnson's 3 TD passes, 2 defensive scores lift K-State over TCU 

The Junction City Blue Jays got back in the winning column on Friday night, handing the Trojans of Topeka High a 44-6 loss at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.

Junction City got the ball to start the game and picked up two first downs before they turned the ball over. Due to injuries and some reconfiguration on the offensive line, there was miscommunication between the center and the quarterback. It was an errant snap that Topeka High recovered in plus territory.
The Trojans quickly went three-and-out and decided to go for it on fourth and ten. Junction City junior nose guard Trevon Briley sacked the quarterback, and the Blue Jays regained possession.


On the first play of the ensuing drive, Junction City senior quarterback Conrad Gomez hit junior wide receiver Brody Boeckman down the sideline for a 63-yard touchdown connection to give the Blue Jays a 7-0 lead. That was the score at the end of the first quarter.


Both defenses settled in, and it became a sloppy first half, with both sides flagged for several penalties. In the second quarter, Junction City senior Sean Powell intercepted the ball in the end zone on a deep pass by the Trojans’ quarterback, Zane Smith. The Blue Jays took advantage of the turnover and scored on a one-yard quarterback sneak by Gomez. The PAT was no good, and it was 13-0 JC.

After forcing a punt near midfield, the Blue Jays had a special teams miscue. Senior punt returner Lovell Autry picked up the punt inside the ten-yard line, got spun around, fumbled the ball, and Topeka junior Courtney Sanders picked it up and ran it in for a touchdown. The PAT was blocked, and it was 13-6 in favor of the Blue Jays.
Junction City added a 22-yard field goal before half by kicker Ethan Butler and JC&nbsp;led 16-6 at the half.

The second half was much better for Junction City all the way around. The Blue Jays converted on third and sixteen on a great scramble and pass by Gomez to senior tight end Ayden Martin. A few plays later, Gomez hit Autry down the sideline for a 50-yard touchdown, and JC led 23-6.

The Blue Jays added three more scores: a one-yard touchdown run by junior running back Josiah Totive, another QB sneak touchdown by Gomez, and a 22-yard interception return for a touchdown by linebacker Toby Johnson.
Junction City held on to win 44-6 and improved to 4-2 on the season.
The Blue Jay defense did not give up a touchdown in a game for the second time this season. It is the third time this season they've held a team to under ten points.

Junction City (4-2) hosts Washburn Rural (5-1) next Friday night for the homecoming game.

Our player of the game, announced on our 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio broadcast, was defensive lineman Jackson Hollie. (Blu Restaurant in Junction City is our player of the game sponsor.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760163320683.jpeg" alt="#53 Caleb Schlieman makes a tackle against the Topeka High Trojans on Friday night at Hummer Sports Park. The Blue Jay defense did not allow a touchdown in the game.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>#53 Caleb Schlieman makes a tackle against the Topeka High Trojans on Friday night at Hummer Sports Park. The Blue Jay defense did not allow a touchdown in the game.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays got back in the winning column on Friday night, handing the Trojans of Topeka High a 44-6 loss at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.Junction City got the ball to start the game and picked up two first downs before they turned the ball over. Due to injuries and some reconfiguration on the offensive line, there was miscommunication between the center and the quarterback. It was an errant snap that Topeka High recovered in plus territory.
The Trojans quickly went three-and-out and decided to go for it on fourth and ten. Junction City junior nose guard Trevon Briley sacked the quarterback, and the Blue Jays regained possession.
On the first play of the ensuing drive, Junction City senior quarterback Conrad Gomez hit junior wide receiver Brody Boeckman down the sideline for a 63-yard touchdown connection to give the Blue Jays a 7-0 lead. That was the score at the end of the first quarter.
Both defenses settled in, and it became a sloppy first half, with both sides flagged for several penalties. In the second quarter, Junction City senior Sean Powell intercepted the ball in the end zone on a deep pass by the Trojans’ quarterback, Zane Smith. The Blue Jays took advantage of the turnover and scored on a one-yard quarterback sneak by Gomez. The PAT was no good, and it was 13-0 JC.After forcing a punt near midfield, the Blue Jays had a special teams miscue. Senior punt returner Lovell Autry picked up the punt inside the ten-yard line, got spun around, fumbled the ball, and Topeka junior Courtney Sanders picked it up and ran it in for a touchdown. The PAT was blocked, and it was 13-6 in favor of the Blue Jays.
Junction City added a 22-yard field goal before half by kicker Ethan Butler and JC&nbsp;led 16-6 at the half.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760163602763.jpeg" alt="#28 Trevon Briley blocks the PAT in the first half of the game against Topeka High." />
 <figcaption>#28 Trevon Briley blocks the PAT in the first half of the game against Topeka High.</figcaption>
 </figure>The second half was much better for Junction City all the way around. The Blue Jays converted on third and sixteen on a great scramble and pass by Gomez to senior tight end Ayden Martin. A few plays later, Gomez hit Autry down the sideline for a 50-yard touchdown, and JC led 23-6.The Blue Jays added three more scores: a one-yard touchdown run by junior running back Josiah Totive, another QB sneak touchdown by Gomez, and a 22-yard interception return for a touchdown by linebacker Toby Johnson.
Junction City held on to win 44-6 and improved to 4-2 on the season.
The Blue Jay defense did not give up a touchdown in a game for the second time this season. It is the third time this season they've held a team to under ten points.Junction City (4-2) hosts Washburn Rural (5-1) next Friday night for the homecoming game.Our player of the game, announced on our 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio broadcast, was defensive lineman Jackson Hollie. (Blu Restaurant in Junction City is our player of the game sponsor.)**Photos courtesy of Callie Jones.

Blue Jays Rout Topeka High, Defense Dominates Again

High School Football Week Six is here!&nbsp;

Listen Live: Junction City Blue Jays (3-2) at Topeka High Trojans (3-2). The game is being played at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.

Listen Live 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>

The Blue Jays have won seven straight over the Trojans.&nbsp;

High School Football Week Six is here!&nbsp;Listen Live: Junction City Blue Jays (3-2) at Topeka High Trojans (3-2). The game is being played at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.Listen Live 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>The Blue Jays have won seven straight over the Trojans.&nbsp;

LISTEN LIVE: Week 6 Junction City Blue Jays at Topeka High Trojans

The Lady Jay tennis team recently competed in the Centennial League Varsity Tennis tournament hosted by Manhattan at the Blue Jay Tennis Complex in Junction City. 

Leading the way for the Lady Jays was Hannah Micheel.  She finished 3rd in the singles bracket going 3-1 on the day.  Zoey Micheel finished in 7th place as the other singles entry for the Lady Jays going 2-2.

In doubles, Emma Young and Maddi Sederlin were the high finishers earning 6th place.  The other doubles team of Hannah Huddleston and Addi Sederlin  went 2-2 and finished in 10th place. 

Overall, Junction City finished in 4th place.  Emporia won the team title.  The Lady Jay tennis team next travels to Wichita on Friday, October 10th for the 6A Regional Tennis Tournament.  Matches will start at 10 am and be held at the Riverside Tennis Complex.

By Matt MicheelJCHS CoachThe Lady Jay tennis team recently competed in the Centennial League Varsity Tennis tournament hosted by Manhattan at the Blue Jay Tennis Complex in Junction City. Leading the way for the Lady Jays was Hannah Micheel. She finished 3rd in the singles bracket going 3-1 on the day. Zoey Micheel finished in 7th place as the other singles entry for the Lady Jays going 2-2.In doubles, Emma Young and Maddi Sederlin were the high finishers earning 6th place. The other doubles team of Hannah Huddleston and Addi Sederlin went 2-2 and finished in 10th place. Overall, Junction City finished in 4th place. Emporia won the team title. The Lady Jay tennis team next travels to Wichita on Friday, October 10th for the 6A Regional Tennis Tournament. Matches will start at 10 am and be held at the Riverside Tennis Complex.

Lady Jay tennis competes in league competition

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Trevor Lawrence tripped and fell to the ground, stumbled trying to get up, finally got back on his feet and then&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1975398203173577216">scrambled for a 1-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;with 23 seconds remaining — turning a comical miscue into an improbable score — and the Jacksonville Jaguars beat Kansas City 31-28 on Monday night.

“What a crazy, crazy finish,” said Lawrence, who was serenaded by teammates in the locker room to celebrate his 26th birthday.

The chaos ended with the Jaguars (4-1) snapping an eight-game losing streak to the Chiefs (2-3) and matching their win total from last season.

Patrick Mahomes, who drove the Chiefs into position to take a 28-24 lead with 1:45 to play, had a final chance with 16 seconds remaining. But he failed to muster much of a threat, and his final throw was incomplete, setting off a raucous celebration for the home team.

“We like to make things very interesting,” Jaguars coach Liam Coen said. “But the resiliency is really what I think this team has."

Lawrence ran for two touchdowns on the night and also threw for a score, helping balance a performance that included two turnovers.

He was perfect when it mattered most for the Jaguars. Lawrence dropped a precision pass to Brian Thomas Jr. for a 33-yard gain on the go-ahead drive and then hit Dyami Brown for another big gain. Chamarri Conner was flagged for pass interference against Thomas on the next play, setting up Lawrence's trip and score.

Right guard Patrick Mekari stepped on Lawrence's right foot as he took the snap, and the quarterback fell several yards into the backfield. His first thought was “throw it away.” But when he got to his feet, he saw a lane and took it. He broke a tackle and somehow found the end zone.

“It's a goofy finish, but what a tough moment for him,” Coen said. “He wasn't going to lose.”

It helped that several defenders, including Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, stopped on the play.

“We’ve got to finish that play," Jones said. "It was a fluke play for him to be able to break that many tackles. I put it on us as a defense. We’ve got to finish. We’ve got to bring him down right there.”

Lawrence completed 18 of 25 passes for 221 yards. He also ran for a team-high 54 yards.

Mahomes accounted for two touchdowns, and Kareem Hunt ran for two more scores for Kansas City, which had won 23 straight when leading by at least 14 points. The Chiefs took an early 14-0 lead, thanks in part to a fumble by Lawrence at the goal line.

Jacksonville's comeback got a huge boost from linebacker Devin Lloyd, the AFC defensive player of the month for September. Lloyd&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1975383731272548625">returned an interception 99 yards</a>&nbsp;for a touchdown in the third quarter. It was the longest interception return in the regular season by a linebacker in NFL history.

Lloyd stepped in front of Mahomes' pass intended for JuJu Smith-Schuster at the goal line and took off the other way for his league-leading fifth takeaway.

He juked Mahomes and Hunt, then got up to full speed along the Jaguars’ sideline. He picked up a block from Josh Hines-Allen and then held the ball tight as Tyquan Thornton tried to knock it loose at the 5-yard line.

“It's a big win," Lawrence said. "Obviously it's a good team. They've been a good team for a long time. They're hard to beat, they really are. ... At the end of the game, they're always in it and they always seem to make the plays.

“So it was cool for us to go take it and have to win it at the end, put together a good drive. And showing up a big stage does say something.”

Jaguars two-way standout Travis Hunter made two big-time plays, including the fourth-longest reception by a rookie this season. Hunter&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1975379665461387389">hauled in a 44-yarder</a>&nbsp;in the third quarter — and it was no easy catch.

The Heisman Trophy winner jumped and reached over Conner to snare the ball and then held on despite getting his legs wiped out by Bryan Cook. The Jaguars scored four plays later to tie the game at 14-all.

His catch-and-run in the second quarter was nearly as good. He took a short pass in the left flat and juked two defenders en route to a 12-yard gain.

Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy hobbled off the field in the third quarter after appearing to tweak an ankle but returned a few plays later. Worthy had been listed as questionable because he got off the team flight with a swollen ankle. Chiefs rookie LT Josh Simmons played despite being added to the injury report shortly before kickoff with an illness.

Jaguars TE Brenton Strange left the game in the first half with left hip injury and did not return. Jacksonville played without DE Travon Walker, who had surgery last Monday to repair an injured left wrist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759831677702.jpeg" alt="Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)" />
 <figcaption>Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Trevor Lawrence tripped and fell to the ground, stumbled trying to get up, finally got back on his feet and then&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1975398203173577216">scrambled for a 1-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;with 23 seconds remaining — turning a comical miscue into an improbable score — and the Jacksonville Jaguars beat Kansas City 31-28 on Monday night.“What a crazy, crazy finish,” said Lawrence, who was serenaded by teammates in the locker room to celebrate his 26th birthday.The chaos ended with the Jaguars (4-1) snapping an eight-game losing streak to the Chiefs (2-3) and matching their win total from last season.Patrick Mahomes, who drove the Chiefs into position to take a 28-24 lead with 1:45 to play, had a final chance with 16 seconds remaining. But he failed to muster much of a threat, and his final throw was incomplete, setting off a raucous celebration for the home team.“We like to make things very interesting,” Jaguars coach Liam Coen said. “But the resiliency is really what I think this team has."Lawrence ran for two touchdowns on the night and also threw for a score, helping balance a performance that included two turnovers.He was perfect when it mattered most for the Jaguars. Lawrence dropped a precision pass to Brian Thomas Jr. for a 33-yard gain on the go-ahead drive and then hit Dyami Brown for another big gain. Chamarri Conner was flagged for pass interference against Thomas on the next play, setting up Lawrence's trip and score.Right guard Patrick Mekari stepped on Lawrence's right foot as he took the snap, and the quarterback fell several yards into the backfield. His first thought was “throw it away.” But when he got to his feet, he saw a lane and took it. He broke a tackle and somehow found the end zone.“It's a goofy finish, but what a tough moment for him,” Coen said. “He wasn't going to lose.”It helped that several defenders, including Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, stopped on the play.“We’ve got to finish that play," Jones said. "It was a fluke play for him to be able to break that many tackles. I put it on us as a defense. We’ve got to finish. We’ve got to bring him down right there.”Lawrence completed 18 of 25 passes for 221 yards. He also ran for a team-high 54 yards.Mahomes accounted for two touchdowns, and Kareem Hunt ran for two more scores for Kansas City, which had won 23 straight when leading by at least 14 points. The Chiefs took an early 14-0 lead, thanks in part to a fumble by Lawrence at the goal line.Jacksonville's comeback got a huge boost from linebacker Devin Lloyd, the AFC defensive player of the month for September. Lloyd&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1975383731272548625">returned an interception 99 yards</a>&nbsp;for a touchdown in the third quarter. It was the longest interception return in the regular season by a linebacker in NFL history.Lloyd stepped in front of Mahomes' pass intended for JuJu Smith-Schuster at the goal line and took off the other way for his league-leading fifth takeaway.He juked Mahomes and Hunt, then got up to full speed along the Jaguars’ sideline. He picked up a block from Josh Hines-Allen and then held the ball tight as Tyquan Thornton tried to knock it loose at the 5-yard line.“It's a big win," Lawrence said. "Obviously it's a good team. They've been a good team for a long time. They're hard to beat, they really are. ... At the end of the game, they're always in it and they always seem to make the plays.“So it was cool for us to go take it and have to win it at the end, put together a good drive. And showing up a big stage does say something.”<h2>Travis Hunter makes a rookie splash</h2>Jaguars two-way standout Travis Hunter made two big-time plays, including the fourth-longest reception by a rookie this season. Hunter&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1975379665461387389">hauled in a 44-yarder</a>&nbsp;in the third quarter — and it was no easy catch.The Heisman Trophy winner jumped and reached over Conner to snare the ball and then held on despite getting his legs wiped out by Bryan Cook. The Jaguars scored four plays later to tie the game at 14-all.His catch-and-run in the second quarter was nearly as good. He took a short pass in the left flat and juked two defenders en route to a 12-yard gain.<h2>Key injuries</h2>Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy hobbled off the field in the third quarter after appearing to tweak an ankle but returned a few plays later. Worthy had been listed as questionable because he got off the team flight with a swollen ankle. Chiefs rookie LT Josh Simmons played despite being added to the injury report shortly before kickoff with an illness.Jaguars TE Brenton Strange left the game in the first half with left hip injury and did not return. Jacksonville played without DE Travon Walker, who had surgery last Monday to repair an injured left wrist.<h2>Up next</h2>The Chiefs host Detroit on Sunday night.The Jaguars host Seattle on Sunday.

 🏈 Trevor Lawrence's wild run lifts the Jaguars over the Chiefs

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Kansas' defense came up with two decisive plays near the goal line, setting up the Jayhawks' go-ahead touchdown with a strip sack and fumble recovery to stop UCF on three consecutive plays from the 1 with less than two minutes remaining to help Kansas beat the Knights 27-20 on Saturday night.

Kansas' Trey Lathan recovered a fumble at the 2 late in the third quarter off a strip sack from Jalen Dye, setting up the go-ahead 2-yard touchdown run from Leshon Williams. Lathan then tackled Cam Fancher on fourth-and-goal from the 1 with 1:47 to secure the victory.

“You are expecting to lose in that situation,” Lathan said. “But when you come out with a W, it’s a great feeling.”

Kansas (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) lost last week’s game to Cincinnati after a goal line battle, ending with a Bearcats' 2-yard touchdown run with 30 seconds remaining.

UCF drove to the Kansas 22 after getting the ball back, but four straight incompletions that included a pass breakup in the end zone by Austin Alexander, ended the Knights' final threat.

Kansas erased an early 14-0 lead from UCF (3-2, 0-2) after Myles Montgomery and the Knights ran all over the Jayhawks in the first half.

Jalon Daniels led the charge for Kansas, throwing for 235 yards on 18-for-26 passing. Williams rushed for 58 yards and three touchdowns for the Jayhawks.

“These guys are growing,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I think this can be a big one for them to gain some confidence.”

Montgomery rushed for 99 of his 110 yards in the first half, scoring two touchdowns to stake the Knights to an early lead.

UCF’s Tayven Jackson finished with 97 yards on 14-for-23 passing. He left the game after his turnover and came out of the locker room with his left arm in a sling. Coach Scott Frost said X-rays on his shoulder were negative.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759633370385.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Kansas' defense came up with two decisive plays near the goal line, setting up the Jayhawks' go-ahead touchdown with a strip sack and fumble recovery to stop UCF on three consecutive plays from the 1 with less than two minutes remaining to help Kansas beat the Knights 27-20 on Saturday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">KANSAS HOLDS. <a href="https://t.co/VMCa14Tca4">pic.twitter.com/VMCa14Tca4</a>&mdash; Kansas Football (@KU_Football) <a href="https://twitter.com/KU_Football/status/1974668305681301514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas' Trey Lathan recovered a fumble at the 2 late in the third quarter off a strip sack from Jalen Dye, setting up the go-ahead 2-yard touchdown run from Leshon Williams. Lathan then tackled Cam Fancher on fourth-and-goal from the 1 with 1:47 to secure the victory.“You are expecting to lose in that situation,” Lathan said. “But when you come out with a W, it’s a great feeling.”Kansas (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) lost last week’s game to Cincinnati after a goal line battle, ending with a Bearcats' 2-yard touchdown run with 30 seconds remaining.UCF drove to the Kansas 22 after getting the ball back, but four straight incompletions that included a pass breakup in the end zone by Austin Alexander, ended the Knights' final threat.Kansas erased an early 14-0 lead from UCF (3-2, 0-2) after Myles Montgomery and the Knights ran all over the Jayhawks in the first half.Jalon Daniels led the charge for Kansas, throwing for 235 yards on 18-for-26 passing. Williams rushed for 58 yards and three touchdowns for the Jayhawks.“These guys are growing,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I think this can be a big one for them to gain some confidence.”Montgomery rushed for 99 of his 110 yards in the first half, scoring two touchdowns to stake the Knights to an early lead.UCF’s Tayven Jackson finished with 97 yards on 14-for-23 passing. He left the game after his turnover and came out of the locker room with his left arm in a sling. Coach Scott Frost said X-rays on his shoulder were negative.Fancher, who started UCF’s opening game against Jacksonville State before leaving with an injury, completed 8 of 14 passes for 79 yards.The Knights could not find answers in the second half and lost for the second straight game.“I think we're one of the most talented teams in the Big 12, we've just got to finish,” UCF receiver Duane Thomas Jr. said. “We have to play a complete football game. We can't go out the first two quarters and lay down the next two.”<h2>Off Suspension</h2>Part of the shift in the game came from Kansas linebacker Bangally Kamara, who was coming off suspension in the first half after a second-half targeting penalty last week against Cincinnati. Kamara finished with four tackles and provided a boost for the Jayhawks' defense.<h2>Memorializing Coach Clark</h2>Both teams stayed on the field after pregame warmups for a moment of silence to recognize UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark. Clark passed away Sept. 21. He joined UCF's staff after five years as the head coach at Appalachian State.<h2>Fighting through injury</h2>Several players for Kansas were fighting through injury, including Williams. The biggest was to kicker Laith Marjan, who made two field goals. His 41-yarder in the third quarter just made it over the crossbar, clipping it before going through.Leipold admitted Marjan was probably a bit fatigued after he kicked the ensuing kickoff out of bounds following the short field goal.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks have been known for their offense throughout the season, but their defense stepped up in a big way to stymie the Knights.UCF: The Knights will again face quarterback questions after Jackson left the game with an injury. Jackson left last week's game with a shoulder injury. Backup quarterback Jacurri Brown also missed the game with a shoulder injury.<h2>Up Next</h2>Kansas travels to face No. 11 Texas Tech on Saturday.UCF hits the road to face Cincinnati on Saturday.