<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>FOX announced late Saturday night that the 2023 edition of the Dillons’ Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas next weekend in Lawrence will kick off at 6 p.m. and be televised by FS1.</a>

The Wildcats have won each of the last 14 games in the series, including each of the last seven at Kansas. This is the 113th-consecutive year of the Sunflower Showdown dating back to 1911, which is the fourth-longest uninterrupted series in FBS history. It is also the ninth-most played rivalry in FBS history with the 121st meeting on tap.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>FOX announced late Saturday night that the 2023 edition of the Dillons’ Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas next weekend in Lawrence will kick off at 6 p.m. and be televised by FS1.</a>The Wildcats have won each of the last 14 games in the series, including each of the last seven at Kansas. This is the 113th-consecutive year of the Sunflower Showdown dating back to 1911, which is the fourth-longest uninterrupted series in FBS history. It is also the ninth-most played rivalry in FBS history with the 121st meeting on tap.RYAN LACKEY

Sunflower Showdown Set for Primetime Matchup

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Will Howard became the all-time leader in touchdown passes in Kansas State history, leading the Wildcats past Baylor 59-19 on Saturday afternoon.

Howard was 19-of-29 for 235 yards and three touchdowns. He moved past Josh Freeman with 45 career touchdown passes. It was Howard's fifth game this season with at least three TD passes, tying Freeman for the school record.

Kansas State (7-3, 5-2 Big 12) has scored at least 40 points in all six home games (6-0) this season.

Blake Shapen was was 22-of-45 for 253 yards and four touchdowns for Baylor (3-7, 2-5 Big 12).

K-State extended its 35-13 halftime lead early in the third quarter on a 33-yard field goal by Chris Tennant.

Shapen hit Drake Dabney for a 63-yard touchdown. After a pair of laterals, Shapen found Dabney, who eluded the K-State defense. The Wildcats responded with a nine-play, 73-yard touchdown drive, capped by Treshaun Ward's 4-yard run.

Keenan Garber then picked off Shapen and returned it 45 yards for a pick-6.

Avery Johnson hit Garrett Oakley and Shapen hit Monaray Baldwin for K-State's final touchdowns.

K-State took the opening kickoff and scored on a 19-yard screen pass from Howard to DJ Giddens, capping a 12-play, 81-yard drive. But Baylor responded immediately with a five-play, 72-yard drive to tie it. Shapen found Dawson Pendergrass for a 13-yard touchdown.

Howard found Ben Sinnott in the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown as the Wildcats regained the lead, 14-7.

Desmond Purnell scored a defensive touchdown to extend the lead to 21-7. Cody Stufflebean hit Shapen from behind, forcing a fumble that Purnell picked up and ran 15 yards untouched into the end zone.

Howard then plunged in from the 1-yard line on fourth down early in the second quarter to add to the lead. Things only got worse for Baylor. Palmer Williams fumbled the snap on a punt and was tackled at the 2. Howard then found Christian Moore on a 2-yard pass for a 35-7 lead with 13:07 left in the half. Howard's third TD pass of the game gave him the career mark.

After Josh Cameron's 70-yard punt return set up Baylor at the K-State 16, Shapen hit Pendergrass on a 1-yard TD pass. The 2-point conversion failed.

Baylor: The Bears hit the road for the final time this season with a game at TCU.

Kansas State: The Wildcats will face in-state rival Kansas in Lawrence, Kan.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Will Howard became the all-time leader in touchdown passes in Kansas State history, leading the Wildcats past Baylor 59-19 on Saturday afternoon.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Game changers <a href="https://t.co/HfFh4Jdlz2">pic.twitter.com/HfFh4Jdlz2</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1723495095310176743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Howard was 19-of-29 for 235 yards and three touchdowns. He moved past Josh Freeman with 45 career touchdown passes. It was Howard's fifth game this season with at least three TD passes, tying Freeman for the school record.Kansas State (7-3, 5-2 Big 12) has scored at least 40 points in all six home games (6-0) this season.Blake Shapen was was 22-of-45 for 253 yards and four touchdowns for Baylor (3-7, 2-5 Big 12).K-State extended its 35-13 halftime lead early in the third quarter on a 33-yard field goal by Chris Tennant.Shapen hit Drake Dabney for a 63-yard touchdown. After a pair of laterals, Shapen found Dabney, who eluded the K-State defense. The Wildcats responded with a nine-play, 73-yard touchdown drive, capped by Treshaun Ward's 4-yard run.Keenan Garber then picked off Shapen and returned it 45 yards for a pick-6.Avery Johnson hit Garrett Oakley and Shapen hit Monaray Baldwin for K-State's final touchdowns.K-State took the opening kickoff and scored on a 19-yard screen pass from Howard to DJ Giddens, capping a 12-play, 81-yard drive. But Baylor responded immediately with a five-play, 72-yard drive to tie it. Shapen found Dawson Pendergrass for a 13-yard touchdown.Howard found Ben Sinnott in the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown as the Wildcats regained the lead, 14-7.Desmond Purnell scored a defensive touchdown to extend the lead to 21-7. Cody Stufflebean hit Shapen from behind, forcing a fumble that Purnell picked up and ran 15 yards untouched into the end zone.Howard then plunged in from the 1-yard line on fourth down early in the second quarter to add to the lead. Things only got worse for Baylor. Palmer Williams fumbled the snap on a punt and was tackled at the 2. Howard then found Christian Moore on a 2-yard pass for a 35-7 lead with 13:07 left in the half. Howard's third TD pass of the game gave him the career mark.After Josh Cameron's 70-yard punt return set up Baylor at the K-State 16, Shapen hit Pendergrass on a 1-yard TD pass. The 2-point conversion failed.UP NEXT:Baylor: The Bears hit the road for the final time this season with a game at TCU.Kansas State: The Wildcats will face in-state rival Kansas in Lawrence, Kan.

Will Howard sets K-State TD pass record, Wildcats dominate Baylor 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Gino Garcia hit a game-winning 30-yard field goal with 3 seconds to play and Texas Tech upset No. 19 Kansas 16-13 on Saturday as the Jayhawks struggled after losing quarterback Jason Bean in the first half.

Behren Morton completed passes of 16, 14 and 32 yards as Texas Tech went 63 yards in 20 seconds to set up the game-deciding kick.

“Those were day one installs,” Morton said. “Jerand (Bradley) went up and got that last ball and I just tried to put it where only he could get it.”

Tahj Brooks ran for 133 yards and a touchdown as the Red Raiders (5-5, 4-3 Big 12) came back after Kansas (7-3, 4-3) tied the game on a 22-yard field goal by Seth Keller with 26 seconds left in regulation.

“We go up against our defense every day so I had faith they'd do the job,” Brooks said. “They came up big for us with those stops.”

Texas Tech stopped Kansas after they had several chances to score inside the 10-yard line and take the lead.

“We battled and found a way to tie it up late but credit them for driving down the field,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “Our defense found a way to get stops and responded well when challenged. Offensively, I don’t think we ever fully got set today.”

Texas Tech opened a 10-0 lead in the first quarter as Brooks scored early in a 5-yard TD run. Garcia added a 32-yard field goal late in the quarter.

The Red Raiders extended their lead to 13-0 early in the third quarter on Garcia's second field goal before Kansas got back in the game on a Devin Neal 60-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter.

The Jayhawks marched 71 yards later in the fourth quarter and got within three points on a 24-yard field goal by Keller. He tied the game late but Texas Tech found a way to win as Morton was 19 of 25 for 176 yards.

Bean went down with an injury in the second quarter and returned for just one drive the rest of the game. Cole Ballard finished up and was 9 of 20 for 124 yards and an interception.

Texas Tech is a win away from being bowl eligible.

“We haven't been able to win on the road this year, we've played well, but haven't got many wins to show for it,” Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “Kansas is a good team and now we need one more win to make it to a bowl.”

Texas Tech: Their run game was too much for the Jayhawk defense to handle in the first half, but their offense struggled in the second half before the winning drive in the final minute.

Kansas: Without their quarterback, Kansas struggled to move the ball and had its Big 12 Conference hopes smashed.

Texas Tech: Returns home to face UCF next Saturday.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Gino Garcia hit a game-winning 30-yard field goal with 3 seconds to play and Texas Tech upset No. 19 Kansas 16-13 on Saturday as the Jayhawks struggled after losing quarterback Jason Bean in the first half.Behren Morton completed passes of 16, 14 and 32 yards as Texas Tech went 63 yards in 20 seconds to set up the game-deciding kick.“Those were day one installs,” Morton said. “Jerand (Bradley) went up and got that last ball and I just tried to put it where only he could get it.”Tahj Brooks ran for 133 yards and a touchdown as the Red Raiders (5-5, 4-3 Big 12) came back after Kansas (7-3, 4-3) tied the game on a 22-yard field goal by Seth Keller with 26 seconds left in regulation.“We go up against our defense every day so I had faith they'd do the job,” Brooks said. “They came up big for us with those stops.”Texas Tech stopped Kansas after they had several chances to score inside the 10-yard line and take the lead.“We battled and found a way to tie it up late but credit them for driving down the field,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “Our defense found a way to get stops and responded well when challenged. Offensively, I don’t think we ever fully got set today.”Texas Tech opened a 10-0 lead in the first quarter as Brooks scored early in a 5-yard TD run. Garcia added a 32-yard field goal late in the quarter.The Red Raiders extended their lead to 13-0 early in the third quarter on Garcia's second field goal before Kansas got back in the game on a Devin Neal 60-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter.The Jayhawks marched 71 yards later in the fourth quarter and got within three points on a 24-yard field goal by Keller. He tied the game late but Texas Tech found a way to win as Morton was 19 of 25 for 176 yards.Bean went down with an injury in the second quarter and returned for just one drive the rest of the game. Cole Ballard finished up and was 9 of 20 for 124 yards and an interception.Texas Tech is a win away from being bowl eligible.“We haven't been able to win on the road this year, we've played well, but haven't got many wins to show for it,” Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “Kansas is a good team and now we need one more win to make it to a bowl.”THE TAKEAWAYTexas Tech: Their run game was too much for the Jayhawk defense to handle in the first half, but their offense struggled in the second half before the winning drive in the final minute.Kansas: Without their quarterback, Kansas struggled to move the ball and had its Big 12 Conference hopes smashed.UP NEXTTexas Tech: Returns home to face UCF next Saturday.

Texas Tech upsets No. 19 Kansas

Junction City Blue Jay football Awards Night is scheduled at 5 p.m. Sunday in the Main Gym at Junction City High School. This event is open to the public.&nbsp; There will not be any admission charge.

This event will help celebrate the season for the Blue Jays, which saw them finish with a record of 6-4.

Junction City Blue Jay football Awards Night is scheduled at 5 p.m. Sunday in the Main Gym at Junction City High School. This event is open to the public.&nbsp; There will not be any admission charge.This event will help celebrate the season for the Blue Jays, which saw them finish with a record of 6-4.

Blue Jay football Awards Night

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZUgamSsGoWUi5umdjs0aDYiPwz2kATzUgnKkyCl0mk0FK_kFiqANwilnaj36Da03kElzwOiUz-nm_5LYYp8jzeGjMN4If2kn_oXqwtMr8zBVFs1vUZQLZzxCBn0V-YjCS1X0LvcBPKkHJP0GkgcS0LYZSj4LrsKG-MNvfypaikmw0xJBC-mLWX38U1Tgd4MoaBWZzvR3gXX7Ta19DCho3yR&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> fans can now purchase a season pass online for all varsity home games for the 2023-24 winter campaign. This will allow fans to purchase tickets in advance and print from home or present the ticket from their phone in order to enter home contests.

A $50 winter season pass&nbsp; is a $130 value, and support student-athletes at every home basketball, wrestling, swimming and bowling contest. An all-season pass is also available to purchase. Individual game tickets will be made available at each home event for $7 parents and $5 students.&nbsp; JCHS does not charge for boys swimming.

For more information, please contact the JCHS athletics department at 785-717-4214. Buy Tickets: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbluejayathletics.org%2Fpurchase-tickets&amp;h=AT2phpdKqsA103bAyaMjDXHUWShMpFMstCaCblMC3NTIUWVfbjeNOTMq_LcYIUj2BQES0jQIAcCOefLMgd5Qifkpiuaugc4w_z76wdgezkdk5zkqpgPYc32psNMN5JvgUpip91k1FFZGcDWboUbtADLlyvKOHKRnBCTS&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3U2aTvVJtIRBoojUrMjWg-FxbmnhtkQxZ-0ERUvrLyFXPGvr4s76O_Q0shTt44Y8IyB5XAEbf7d_V8TMFYA_3QQ4ocFQzQgKaexXaZDMDzZh5VwqsmtcjiLi7nsDtX3av7RSXsuHwrP4jyf894gqEMDIQHwDNfktI8H3vYZj7k-caG5jFd8ZYcwSqv4JHq8ADDdQzqeiThafhhR5gcuxas2riFtOq1QsVF" target="_blank">bluejayathletics.org/purchase-tickets</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/thrivein475?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUgamSsGoWUi5umdjs0aDYiPwz2kATzUgnKkyCl0mk0FK_kFiqANwilnaj36Da03kElzwOiUz-nm_5LYYp8jzeGjMN4If2kn_oXqwtMr8zBVFs1vUZQLZzxCBn0V-YjCS1X0LvcBPKkHJP0GkgcS0LYZSj4LrsKG-MNvfypaikmw0xJBC-mLWX38U1Tgd4MoaBWZzvR3gXX7Ta19DCho3yR&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#ThriveIn475</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZUgamSsGoWUi5umdjs0aDYiPwz2kATzUgnKkyCl0mk0FK_kFiqANwilnaj36Da03kElzwOiUz-nm_5LYYp8jzeGjMN4If2kn_oXqwtMr8zBVFs1vUZQLZzxCBn0V-YjCS1X0LvcBPKkHJP0GkgcS0LYZSj4LrsKG-MNvfypaikmw0xJBC-mLWX38U1Tgd4MoaBWZzvR3gXX7Ta19DCho3yR&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> fans can now purchase a season pass online for all varsity home games for the 2023-24 winter campaign. This will allow fans to purchase tickets in advance and print from home or present the ticket from their phone in order to enter home contests.A $50 winter season pass&nbsp; is a $130 value, and support student-athletes at every home basketball, wrestling, swimming and bowling contest. An all-season pass is also available to purchase. Individual game tickets will be made available at each home event for $7 parents and $5 students.&nbsp; JCHS does not charge for boys swimming. For more information, please contact the JCHS athletics department at 785-717-4214. Buy Tickets: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbluejayathletics.org%2Fpurchase-tickets&amp;h=AT2phpdKqsA103bAyaMjDXHUWShMpFMstCaCblMC3NTIUWVfbjeNOTMq_LcYIUj2BQES0jQIAcCOefLMgd5Qifkpiuaugc4w_z76wdgezkdk5zkqpgPYc32psNMN5JvgUpip91k1FFZGcDWboUbtADLlyvKOHKRnBCTS&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3U2aTvVJtIRBoojUrMjWg-FxbmnhtkQxZ-0ERUvrLyFXPGvr4s76O_Q0shTt44Y8IyB5XAEbf7d_V8TMFYA_3QQ4ocFQzQgKaexXaZDMDzZh5VwqsmtcjiLi7nsDtX3av7RSXsuHwrP4jyf894gqEMDIQHwDNfktI8H3vYZj7k-caG5jFd8ZYcwSqv4JHq8ADDdQzqeiThafhhR5gcuxas2riFtOq1QsVF" target="_blank">bluejayathletics.org/purchase-tickets</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/thrivein475?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUgamSsGoWUi5umdjs0aDYiPwz2kATzUgnKkyCl0mk0FK_kFiqANwilnaj36Da03kElzwOiUz-nm_5LYYp8jzeGjMN4If2kn_oXqwtMr8zBVFs1vUZQLZzxCBn0V-YjCS1X0LvcBPKkHJP0GkgcS0LYZSj4LrsKG-MNvfypaikmw0xJBC-mLWX38U1Tgd4MoaBWZzvR3gXX7Ta19DCho3yR&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#ThriveIn475</a>USD 475 announcement

Winter sports passes are on sale for JCHS

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex as the Wildcats host Baylor on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium.&nbsp;

COLLIN KLEIN, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On if he would have done things differently in the first half at Texas…

“Obviously, yes, because things didn't work as we were hoping or thought they would. It's easy to point well, ‘Hey, we couldn't run the football.’ We actually threw it more in the second quarter than we ran it and were just a shade over 50/50 in the first quarter. We really couldn't get anything going. So, it's easy to point at the run game, but there were some things, obviously. We had some chances and have to connect on a few things in the passing game to help get those wheels turning a little bit. So, obviously, it didn't go as planned. ”

On if he still feeds good playing two quarterbacks…

“I do. I know our guys believe in both of them. I know both of them have made some big plays and big contributions at different times. Everyone knows that Will (Howard) is our leader and does a tremendous job spearheading things. Avery (Johnson) has done a great job of stepping up and being ready and making plays when he's had the opportunity to do so. So, I’m really happy with both of them.”

On what he sees from Baylor’s defense…

“Good length is typical. I think they'll mix up some man and some bracket coverage-type looks that change some fits around and different things. We’re going to have to stay sharp on some things, going to have to make some plays versus some man coverage situations and kind of get back into a groove of what we do in our identity, being able to run the football and have good balance.”

On Will Howard’s play over the last several weeks…

“There's so many good things you can say about Will, and just how proud of how he's continued to battle and improve. He's playing an extremely high level right now, and I’m really excited to watch him and our offense be able to distribute the ball like he has.”

On if Will Howard is underappreciated for his accomplishments…

“You always appreciate the appreciation, but at the end of the day, you do it because you love it. You do it because God's given you the ability and the opportunity, and I know that's why he does it. I think that kind of rides out some of the highs and or lows that he's experienced during his career and have kept him very consistent through that. I'm super proud of him, and it doesn't surprise me a bit that he's had that kind of production.”

JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On how the defense played against Texas…

“Obviously we lost the game, so there was a lot of things we could have done better. I have regrets on a couple of the scoring plays. The one was a communication error – the first one – that we just hadn’t made that mistake and let the one-on-one that shouldn't have been a one-on-one. Then, the second touchdown was kind of a gadget that they got us on that we didn't recognize. Texas is a really incredible team. They have talent, they are well coached, they're schematically very, very good, and it took us a little while to get caught up. I guess what I'm most happy with is the way that our guys fought. We did not get off to a great start. It was one of the things that we talked about doing. We were kind of in a hole all day, but they kept swinging. I'm really, really proud of the way that we did some things. We talked a little bit Monday about the last nine plays of defense for us. When we needed it the most, we were elite. They were driving, and we held them on three plays and made them kick a field goal. Then we missed our field goal and had three plays and got it turned out, got them to punt, gave our offensive chance to put on a score. Then three plays of overtime – it’s about as good as you can do is 3rd and 9, kicking a field goal from the 24-yard line. So, we finished that thing really well and are proud of them.”

On if the defense changed anything during the game at Texas…

“Well, that's one thing about Texas that they do a good job of is they keep the targets moving, so it's harder to do some of that stuff. I think we got accustomed to the speed as the game went on a little bit. We can't replicate that. We've got some phenomenal scout receivers – and I think we've got a really good scout team – but you can't replicate that. There's not a lot of teams in the country that can’t replicate that. So, I think that was a little bit of it was just us getting used to that pace of play. Once we did, I think we started realizing that we can execute with these guys and play with these guys.”

On Baylor quarterback Blake Shapen…

“I've always thought very highly of him since he came into the game here in 2021 when (Gerry) Bohanon was the quarterback and got hurt, and he came in and just didn't bat an eye with his athleticism. It's unfortunate that he's had some injuries and things throughout the past couple of years, but he's really athletic. Him running the football and him scrambling with the football is as scary as anything that they do. He's played a lot of football. He's seen a lot of pictures. I think he throws the ball accurately, and he's one of the better quarterbacks in the league.”

On how the linebackers have become a strength for the defense…

“It's been great to watch the development of Jake Clifton. He got the start last week. We just felt Austin Romaine has been tremendous, especially, he's just a freshman. What he's doing is incredible. We just feel Jake is so intelligent, such a good communicator, seen a lot of football at this point in his career. We just feel like he gives us a chance to do a few more things. But, yeah, those guys, Des (Desmond Purnell) and Austin (Moore), how they've rolled and the battle that they fought all game long, I’m really proud of those four.”

On being able to mix things up with Marques Sigle…

“Marques is incredible. He's a physical kid, as physical of a kid as we have on defense, relatively. His ability to play man, it's been awesome for us. So, we're trying to get him around the action as much as we can get him around the action.”

Associate Athletics Director for Communications

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699572433881.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex as the Wildcats host Baylor on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium.&nbsp;COLLIN KLEIN, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOROn if he would have done things differently in the first half at Texas…“Obviously, yes, because things didn't work as we were hoping or thought they would. It's easy to point well, ‘Hey, we couldn't run the football.’ We actually threw it more in the second quarter than we ran it and were just a shade over 50/50 in the first quarter. We really couldn't get anything going. So, it's easy to point at the run game, but there were some things, obviously. We had some chances and have to connect on a few things in the passing game to help get those wheels turning a little bit. So, obviously, it didn't go as planned. ”On if he still feeds good playing two quarterbacks…“I do. I know our guys believe in both of them. I know both of them have made some big plays and big contributions at different times. Everyone knows that Will (Howard) is our leader and does a tremendous job spearheading things. Avery (Johnson) has done a great job of stepping up and being ready and making plays when he's had the opportunity to do so. So, I’m really happy with both of them.”On what he sees from Baylor’s defense…“Good length is typical. I think they'll mix up some man and some bracket coverage-type looks that change some fits around and different things. We’re going to have to stay sharp on some things, going to have to make some plays versus some man coverage situations and kind of get back into a groove of what we do in our identity, being able to run the football and have good balance.”On Will Howard’s play over the last several weeks…“There's so many good things you can say about Will, and just how proud of how he's continued to battle and improve. He's playing an extremely high level right now, and I’m really excited to watch him and our offense be able to distribute the ball like he has.”On if Will Howard is underappreciated for his accomplishments…“You always appreciate the appreciation, but at the end of the day, you do it because you love it. You do it because God's given you the ability and the opportunity, and I know that's why he does it. I think that kind of rides out some of the highs and or lows that he's experienced during his career and have kept him very consistent through that. I'm super proud of him, and it doesn't surprise me a bit that he's had that kind of production.”JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOROn how the defense played against Texas…“Obviously we lost the game, so there was a lot of things we could have done better. I have regrets on a couple of the scoring plays. The one was a communication error – the first one – that we just hadn’t made that mistake and let the one-on-one that shouldn't have been a one-on-one. Then, the second touchdown was kind of a gadget that they got us on that we didn't recognize. Texas is a really incredible team. They have talent, they are well coached, they're schematically very, very good, and it took us a little while to get caught up. I guess what I'm most happy with is the way that our guys fought. We did not get off to a great start. It was one of the things that we talked about doing. We were kind of in a hole all day, but they kept swinging. I'm really, really proud of the way that we did some things. We talked a little bit Monday about the last nine plays of defense for us. When we needed it the most, we were elite. They were driving, and we held them on three plays and made them kick a field goal. Then we missed our field goal and had three plays and got it turned out, got them to punt, gave our offensive chance to put on a score. Then three plays of overtime – it’s about as good as you can do is 3rd and 9, kicking a field goal from the 24-yard line. So, we finished that thing really well and are proud of them.”On if the defense changed anything during the game at Texas…“Well, that's one thing about Texas that they do a good job of is they keep the targets moving, so it's harder to do some of that stuff. I think we got accustomed to the speed as the game went on a little bit. We can't replicate that. We've got some phenomenal scout receivers – and I think we've got a really good scout team – but you can't replicate that. There's not a lot of teams in the country that can’t replicate that. So, I think that was a little bit of it was just us getting used to that pace of play. Once we did, I think we started realizing that we can execute with these guys and play with these guys.”On Baylor quarterback Blake Shapen…“I've always thought very highly of him since he came into the game here in 2021 when (Gerry) Bohanon was the quarterback and got hurt, and he came in and just didn't bat an eye with his athleticism. It's unfortunate that he's had some injuries and things throughout the past couple of years, but he's really athletic. Him running the football and him scrambling with the football is as scary as anything that they do. He's played a lot of football. He's seen a lot of pictures. I think he throws the ball accurately, and he's one of the better quarterbacks in the league.”On how the linebackers have become a strength for the defense…“It's been great to watch the development of Jake Clifton. He got the start last week. We just felt Austin Romaine has been tremendous, especially, he's just a freshman. What he's doing is incredible. We just feel Jake is so intelligent, such a good communicator, seen a lot of football at this point in his career. We just feel like he gives us a chance to do a few more things. But, yeah, those guys, Des (Desmond Purnell) and Austin (Moore), how they've rolled and the battle that they fought all game long, I’m really proud of those four.”On being able to mix things up with Marques Sigle…“Marques is incredible. He's a physical kid, as physical of a kid as we have on defense, relatively. His ability to play man, it's been awesome for us. So, we're trying to get him around the action as much as we can get him around the action.”RYAN LACKEYAssociate Athletics Director for Communications

K-State Coordinators Preview Home Game Against Baylor   

<a></a><a>M</a>ANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe&nbsp;and tight end&nbsp;Ben Sinnott&nbsp;have accepted invitations to play in the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, one of the most important steps on the way to the 2024 NFL Draft.

It will mark the second-straight year the Wildcats will be represented in the game held annually in Mobile, Alabama, after cornerback Julius Brents – a 2023 second-round selection of the Indianapolis Colts – participated in the game a year ago. It is the second postseason all-star game invitation for Beebe and Sinnott in as many weeks as they were also invited to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl.

A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe has started 44 career games along the Wildcat offensive front, including each of the last 41 contests. He has led the way for a K-State rushing attack that ranks 12th&nbsp;nationally by averaging 204.2 yards per game, while the Wildcats are 21st&nbsp;in total offense (452.7 yards per game) and 17th&nbsp;in scoring offense (36.6 points per game).

A versatile offensive lineman, Beebe has started every game at left guard with 522 total snaps at the position in addition to playing at right tackle (106 snaps) and left tackle (20 snaps).

Sinnott, a former walk-on from Waterloo, Iowa, is one of the top tight ends in the country as he ranks fourth nationally at the position with 433 receiving yards. A career 25-game starter with starts in every game since the beginning of the 2022 season, Sinnott enters this week’s game against Baylor tied for fifth in school history among tight ends in receiving touchdowns (3) and catches (32), while he is eighth in receiving yards (433). His career totals also rank in the top 10 in school history at the position as he is second in receiving touchdowns (7), and fourth in both yards (895) and receptions (65).

No. 25 K-State hosts Baylor on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 2 p.m., will be shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Standing-room only tickets for the game against the Bears are on sale for $62 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699562400894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a></a><a>M</a>ANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe&nbsp;and tight end&nbsp;Ben Sinnott&nbsp;have accepted invitations to play in the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, one of the most important steps on the way to the 2024 NFL Draft.It will mark the second-straight year the Wildcats will be represented in the game held annually in Mobile, Alabama, after cornerback Julius Brents – a 2023 second-round selection of the Indianapolis Colts – participated in the game a year ago. It is the second postseason all-star game invitation for Beebe and Sinnott in as many weeks as they were also invited to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl.A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe has started 44 career games along the Wildcat offensive front, including each of the last 41 contests. He has led the way for a K-State rushing attack that ranks 12th&nbsp;nationally by averaging 204.2 yards per game, while the Wildcats are 21st&nbsp;in total offense (452.7 yards per game) and 17th&nbsp;in scoring offense (36.6 points per game).A versatile offensive lineman, Beebe has started every game at left guard with 522 total snaps at the position in addition to playing at right tackle (106 snaps) and left tackle (20 snaps).Sinnott, a former walk-on from Waterloo, Iowa, is one of the top tight ends in the country as he ranks fourth nationally at the position with 433 receiving yards. A career 25-game starter with starts in every game since the beginning of the 2022 season, Sinnott enters this week’s game against Baylor tied for fifth in school history among tight ends in receiving touchdowns (3) and catches (32), while he is eighth in receiving yards (433). His career totals also rank in the top 10 in school history at the position as he is second in receiving touchdowns (7), and fourth in both yards (895) and receptions (65).No. 25 K-State hosts Baylor on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 2 p.m., will be shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Standing-room only tickets for the game against the Bears are on sale for $62 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner.&nbsp;

K-State’s Beebe, Sinnott Accept Senior Bowl Invitations

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZWdVzBihJE7ydS_-0dxRspMpV749n85MnhJ30UHIgMg7dWWbuJf6mr8Uen-TPSG4CpKF4yYjMtdYZF08pKcil84P-koXZMLuJfNlRlF7sZp8TvaVuwWZDz1gIi8NL6gh0b_g25VJTDA8GOFhIK7VNohXM7n6AUsjfYna8T1DIHP0KZvYFozzQnQvSdFdG8GEFbJnYTUlvHuz6LKg3o4XazZ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> cross country standout Lorna Rae Pierce has signed with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PittsburgStateAthletics?__cft__[0]=AZWdVzBihJE7ydS_-0dxRspMpV749n85MnhJ30UHIgMg7dWWbuJf6mr8Uen-TPSG4CpKF4yYjMtdYZF08pKcil84P-koXZMLuJfNlRlF7sZp8TvaVuwWZDz1gIi8NL6gh0b_g25VJTDA8GOFhIK7VNohXM7n6AUsjfYna8T1DIHP0KZvYFozzQnQvSdFdG8GEFbJnYTUlvHuz6LKg3o4XazZ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Pittsburg Stat</a>e. Pierce will don the Red and Yellow next fall after finishing third overall at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KSHSAA?__cft__[0]=AZWdVzBihJE7ydS_-0dxRspMpV749n85MnhJ30UHIgMg7dWWbuJf6mr8Uen-TPSG4CpKF4yYjMtdYZF08pKcil84P-koXZMLuJfNlRlF7sZp8TvaVuwWZDz1gIi8NL6gh0b_g25VJTDA8GOFhIK7VNohXM7n6AUsjfYna8T1DIHP0KZvYFozzQnQvSdFdG8GEFbJnYTUlvHuz6LKg3o4XazZ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas State High School Activities Association</a> Class 6A Girls Cross Country State Championships last month&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;By Matt Hoover -USD 475 Communications Coordinator<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZWdVzBihJE7ydS_-0dxRspMpV749n85MnhJ30UHIgMg7dWWbuJf6mr8Uen-TPSG4CpKF4yYjMtdYZF08pKcil84P-koXZMLuJfNlRlF7sZp8TvaVuwWZDz1gIi8NL6gh0b_g25VJTDA8GOFhIK7VNohXM7n6AUsjfYna8T1DIHP0KZvYFozzQnQvSdFdG8GEFbJnYTUlvHuz6LKg3o4XazZ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> cross country standout Lorna Rae Pierce has signed with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PittsburgStateAthletics?__cft__[0]=AZWdVzBihJE7ydS_-0dxRspMpV749n85MnhJ30UHIgMg7dWWbuJf6mr8Uen-TPSG4CpKF4yYjMtdYZF08pKcil84P-koXZMLuJfNlRlF7sZp8TvaVuwWZDz1gIi8NL6gh0b_g25VJTDA8GOFhIK7VNohXM7n6AUsjfYna8T1DIHP0KZvYFozzQnQvSdFdG8GEFbJnYTUlvHuz6LKg3o4XazZ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Pittsburg Stat</a>e. Pierce will don the Red and Yellow next fall after finishing third overall at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KSHSAA?__cft__[0]=AZWdVzBihJE7ydS_-0dxRspMpV749n85MnhJ30UHIgMg7dWWbuJf6mr8Uen-TPSG4CpKF4yYjMtdYZF08pKcil84P-koXZMLuJfNlRlF7sZp8TvaVuwWZDz1gIi8NL6gh0b_g25VJTDA8GOFhIK7VNohXM7n6AUsjfYna8T1DIHP0KZvYFozzQnQvSdFdG8GEFbJnYTUlvHuz6LKg3o4XazZ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas State High School Activities Association</a> Class 6A Girls Cross Country State Championships last month&nbsp;&nbsp;

JCHS cross country standout will compete at the college level

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self signed a lifetime contract Tuesday that will pay him $53 million over the first five years, easily surpassing Kentucky coach John Calipari for the richest deal ever given to a college basketball coach at a public university.

Self will make more than $13 million this season in base pay, professional services and royalties along with a one-time signing bonus and retention payments, including some that were deferred during the pandemic. At the conclusion of each year, another is added to the deal, and Self will earn a one-time, $5 million retention bonus if he serves out the first five.

The deal includes a provision that allows the renegotiation of terms, including Self's pay package, after the 2025-26 season. It already surpasses the deal signed by Calipari that will pay him $8.5 million to lead the Wildcats this season.

“Bill Self is undoubtedly the most consistent coach in college basketball, and a restructuring of his contract terms were long overdue,” Kansas athletic director Travis Goff said. “In an ever-changing collegiate athletics environment, our strong commitment to Coach Self positions KU basketball to maintain and enhance its status as the most storied program in the country."

The top-ranked Jayhawks opened this season by routing North Carolina Central on Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699390154366.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self signed a lifetime contract Tuesday that will pay him $53 million over the first five years, easily surpassing Kentucky coach John Calipari for the richest deal ever given to a college basketball coach at a public university.Self will make more than $13 million this season in base pay, professional services and royalties along with a one-time signing bonus and retention payments, including some that were deferred during the pandemic. At the conclusion of each year, another is added to the deal, and Self will earn a one-time, $5 million retention bonus if he serves out the first five.The deal includes a provision that allows the renegotiation of terms, including Self's pay package, after the 2025-26 season. It already surpasses the deal signed by Calipari that will pay him $8.5 million to lead the Wildcats this season.“Bill Self is undoubtedly the most consistent coach in college basketball, and a restructuring of his contract terms were long overdue,” Kansas athletic director Travis Goff said. “In an ever-changing collegiate athletics environment, our strong commitment to Coach Self positions KU basketball to maintain and enhance its status as the most storied program in the country."The top-ranked Jayhawks opened this season by routing North Carolina Central on Monday night.

Bill Self signs richest college basketball contract ever given by a public university

By W.G. RAMIREZ Associated Press

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Boogie Ellis had 24 points and eight rebounds as No. 21 Southern California defeated Kansas State 82-69 in the season opener for both teams Monday night.

The Trojans led by 19 with 6:33 left, but that margin was trimmed to eight with 1:41 remaining before USC held on.

“We've got a lot of vets and people that are experienced and been through it,” Ellis said. “So we just stayed calm and came together.”

Touted freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721767783053332528">Isaiah Collier made his USC debut</a>&nbsp;with 18 points, including 15 in the first half. He added six assists and received a standing ovation when he went to the bench after fouling out with 4:50 to play.

“I thought Isaiah played a great first half, first game on the big stage here in Las Vegas. I thought it was important for us to get out to a fast start,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “I thought Boogie and Isaiah really controlled the tempo in the first half. Isaiah got downhill and was able to get to the rim, made some great passes. ... I was proud of the six assists and 7 of 9 from the field. Very efficient tonight.”

<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721757894662840355">Kobe Johnson</a>&nbsp;finished with 16 points for the Trojans, and Joshua Morgan had 11. USC shot 31 of 60 from the floor (51.7%).

Tyler Perry led Kansas State with 22 points. Cam Carter scored 15, and David N’Guessan had 10 points and 10 rebounds.

“This is exactly why we came here,” Wildcats coach Jerome Tang said. “This is a really good USC team. High-level players. The great thing is that we don’t have to wait for a month or two weeks or before the Big 12 to find out the things that we need to work on. It was very much exposed. ... We did a couple of good things and a whole bunch of not-so-good things.”

A strong defensive team last season, the Trojans limited the Wildcats to 31% shooting (22 of 71).

USC held its opponents under 40% in 19 of 33 games last season and finished eighth in the country in field goal percentage defense at 39.3%.

Kansas State, which reached the Elite Eight in March, dropped to 4-2 all-time against the Trojans.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usc-trojans-bronny-james-lebron-565ce3030ea6ef45d935114eb58c5e00">Bronny James wore grey team sweats</a>&nbsp;and cheered his USC teammates from the bench. The son of NBA career scoring leader LeBron James is still on his way back from suffering a cardiac arrest during a summer workout. LeBron James said last month that his son had surgery to repair a congenital heart condition that caused the collapse.

Kansas State: The Wildcats opened their season away from home for the first time since losing 73-64 to BYU in 2002. Kansas State dropped to 12-17 when starting outside Manhattan, Kansas.

USC: Collier’s performance came on the heels of an impressive one by fellow freshman JuJu Watkins, who led USC’s 21st-ranked women’s team to an 83-74 win over No. 7 Ohio State. Collier and Watkins were considered by many the consensus No. 1 recruits for 2023.

USC hosts Cal State Bakersfield on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699357649999.jpeg" alt="Kansas State guard Tylor Perry shoots the ball in an NCAA basketball game NCAA college basketball game against USC, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State guard Tylor Perry shoots the ball in an NCAA basketball game NCAA college basketball game against USC, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By W.G. RAMIREZ Associated PressLAS VEGAS (AP) — Boogie Ellis had 24 points and eight rebounds as No. 21 Southern California defeated Kansas State 82-69 in the season opener for both teams Monday night.The Trojans led by 19 with 6:33 left, but that margin was trimmed to eight with 1:41 remaining before USC held on.“We've got a lot of vets and people that are experienced and been through it,” Ellis said. “So we just stayed calm and came together.”Touted freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721767783053332528">Isaiah Collier made his USC debut</a>&nbsp;with 18 points, including 15 in the first half. He added six assists and received a standing ovation when he went to the bench after fouling out with 4:50 to play.“I thought Isaiah played a great first half, first game on the big stage here in Las Vegas. I thought it was important for us to get out to a fast start,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “I thought Boogie and Isaiah really controlled the tempo in the first half. Isaiah got downhill and was able to get to the rim, made some great passes. ... I was proud of the six assists and 7 of 9 from the field. Very efficient tonight.”<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721757894662840355">Kobe Johnson</a>&nbsp;finished with 16 points for the Trojans, and Joshua Morgan had 11. USC shot 31 of 60 from the floor (51.7%).Tyler Perry led Kansas State with 22 points. Cam Carter scored 15, and David N’Guessan had 10 points and 10 rebounds.“This is exactly why we came here,” Wildcats coach Jerome Tang said. “This is a really good USC team. High-level players. The great thing is that we don’t have to wait for a month or two weeks or before the Big 12 to find out the things that we need to work on. It was very much exposed. ... We did a couple of good things and a whole bunch of not-so-good things.”A strong defensive team last season, the Trojans limited the Wildcats to 31% shooting (22 of 71).USC held its opponents under 40% in 19 of 33 games last season and finished eighth in the country in field goal percentage defense at 39.3%.Kansas State, which reached the Elite Eight in March, dropped to 4-2 all-time against the Trojans.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usc-trojans-bronny-james-lebron-565ce3030ea6ef45d935114eb58c5e00">Bronny James wore grey team sweats</a>&nbsp;and cheered his USC teammates from the bench. The son of NBA career scoring leader LeBron James is still on his way back from suffering a cardiac arrest during a summer workout. LeBron James said last month that his son had surgery to repair a congenital heart condition that caused the collapse.BIG PICTUREKansas State: The Wildcats opened their season away from home for the first time since losing 73-64 to BYU in 2002. Kansas State dropped to 12-17 when starting outside Manhattan, Kansas.USC: Collier’s performance came on the heels of an impressive one by fellow freshman JuJu Watkins, who led USC’s 21st-ranked women’s team to an 83-74 win over No. 7 Ohio State. Collier and Watkins were considered by many the consensus No. 1 recruits for 2023.UP NEXTKansas State hosts Bellarmine on Friday.USC hosts Cal State Bakersfield on Thursday.

🏀 Wildcats drop opener to No, 21 USC

By DAVE SKRETTA&nbsp; AP Basketball Writer

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had seven points, two rebounds and a block in the first 90 seconds of his Kansas career Monday night, then made a trio of 3-pointers that showed the 7-foot-2 transfer from Michigan is more than just a beast on the block.

Not surprisingly, his newfound fans inside Allen Fieldhouse responded with waves of adulation.

“I was telling somebody, ‘I’m used to the opposing fans being this loud and more boos than cheers,'" Dickinson said after leading the top-ranked Jayhawks to a 99-56 wipeout of North Carolina Central on college basketball's opening night.

“It was real fun to have people on my side for once,” added Dickinson, whose decision to leave the Wolverines left angry fans in his wake. “The atmosphere was insane. I've been hearing about it during my recruiting, and when I committed, and I was hearing so much about Allen Fieldhouse. And it lived up to it.”

Dickinson lived up to the hype, too, finishing with 21 points, eight boards and five assists.

Nic Timberlake had 13 points, KJ Adams scored 12 and Dajuan Harris Jr. dished out 10 assists for the Jayhawks, who led 59-17 by halftime before coasting over the final 20 minutes to their 51st consecutive home-opening win.

Ja'Darius Harris had 12 points to lead the Eagles.

“We have 10 new guys who really, none of them have really played Division I basketball," longtime NC Central coach LeVelle Moton said. “You play this type of game, you get their attention early.”

Any doubt about the outcome was gone midway through the first half, when the Jayhawks went on a 20-2 run to take a 40-11 lead. McCullar scored eight during the spurt, and transfer forward Parker Braun added a highlight ally-oop dunk.

"The first 25 minutes, that ball moved" Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. "Seemed to me we got everything we wanted, even when we didn’t score."

Dickinson had 17 points, seven boards and four assists by halftime; the Eagles had 18 points, eight rebounds and two assists.

“You have to pray, You have to go to church and get a strong service in,” Moton said of matching up with Dickinson. “He's going to be a problem, and he's not just going to be a problem for North Carolina Central. He's going to be a problem for everyone.”

As impressive as the Jayhawks were offensively, piling up 34 assists on 39 field goals while shooting nearly 70% from the field, they were just as good on defense. NC Central was just 6 of 23 from 3 and shot 23% from the field.

“Coach has been on us pretty much every practice, just getting the defense right,” Timberlake said. “We came out storming.”

Kansas guard Johnny Furphy played with no limitations after dealing with shin splints during the preseason. Fellow freshman Jamari McDowell was not suited up after a minor injury in practice but should be back this week.

NC Central will find life much easier in the MEAC, where the Eagles were picked to finish third this season.

Kansas had struggled in exhibitions against Illinois and Fort Hays State from beyond the 3-point line but went 13 of 23 against the Eagles. That included a 9-of-12 mark in the first half.

NC Central plays Virginia-Lynchburg on Thursday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699355788306.png" alt="Kansas center Hunter Dickinson celebrates against North Carolina Central during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lawrence, Kan., Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. (Kansas Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas center Hunter Dickinson celebrates against North Carolina Central during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lawrence, Kan., Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. (Kansas Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA&nbsp; AP Basketball WriterLAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had seven points, two rebounds and a block in the first 90 seconds of his Kansas career Monday night, then made a trio of 3-pointers that showed the 7-foot-2 transfer from Michigan is more than just a beast on the block.Not surprisingly, his newfound fans inside Allen Fieldhouse responded with waves of adulation.“I was telling somebody, ‘I’m used to the opposing fans being this loud and more boos than cheers,'" Dickinson said after leading the top-ranked Jayhawks to a 99-56 wipeout of North Carolina Central on college basketball's opening night.“It was real fun to have people on my side for once,” added Dickinson, whose decision to leave the Wolverines left angry fans in his wake. “The atmosphere was insane. I've been hearing about it during my recruiting, and when I committed, and I was hearing so much about Allen Fieldhouse. And it lived up to it.”Dickinson lived up to the hype, too, finishing with 21 points, eight boards and five assists.Nic Timberlake had 13 points, KJ Adams scored 12 and Dajuan Harris Jr. dished out 10 assists for the Jayhawks, who led 59-17 by halftime before coasting over the final 20 minutes to their 51st consecutive home-opening win.Ja'Darius Harris had 12 points to lead the Eagles.“We have 10 new guys who really, none of them have really played Division I basketball," longtime NC Central coach LeVelle Moton said. “You play this type of game, you get their attention early.”Any doubt about the outcome was gone midway through the first half, when the Jayhawks went on a 20-2 run to take a 40-11 lead. McCullar scored eight during the spurt, and transfer forward Parker Braun added a highlight ally-oop dunk."The first 25 minutes, that ball moved" Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. "Seemed to me we got everything we wanted, even when we didn’t score."Dickinson had 17 points, seven boards and four assists by halftime; the Eagles had 18 points, eight rebounds and two assists.“You have to pray, You have to go to church and get a strong service in,” Moton said of matching up with Dickinson. “He's going to be a problem, and he's not just going to be a problem for North Carolina Central. He's going to be a problem for everyone.”As impressive as the Jayhawks were offensively, piling up 34 assists on 39 field goals while shooting nearly 70% from the field, they were just as good on defense. NC Central was just 6 of 23 from 3 and shot 23% from the field.“Coach has been on us pretty much every practice, just getting the defense right,” Timberlake said. “We came out storming.”INJURY UPDATEKansas guard Johnny Furphy played with no limitations after dealing with shin splints during the preseason. Fellow freshman Jamari McDowell was not suited up after a minor injury in practice but should be back this week.BIG PICTURENC Central will find life much easier in the MEAC, where the Eagles were picked to finish third this season.Kansas had struggled in exhibitions against Illinois and Fort Hays State from beyond the 3-point line but went 13 of 23 against the Eagles. That included a 9-of-12 mark in the first half.UP NEXTNC Central plays Virginia-Lynchburg on Thursday night.Kansas plays Manhattan on Friday night.

🏀 Dickinson scores 21 as No. 1 Kansas routs North Carolina Central

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes, safety Bryan Cook scored on a 59-yard fumble return, and the Kansas City Chiefs held on to beat the Miami Dolphins 21-14 on Sunday at Deutsche Bank Park.

The Chiefs (7-2) did just enough to slow the NFL’s top-ranked offense in the first-ever regular season game in Frankfurt, but nearly blew a big lead.

Miami's comeback fell short when quarterback Tua Tagovailoa couldn't handle a snap on fourth-and-10 from the Kansas City 31 with 1:03 to play.

Mahomes connected on first-half scoring passes to Rashee Rice and Jerick McKinnon as Miami (6-3) kept getting stuck in third-and-long situations. The Dolphins also fell to 0-3 on the season against teams with winning records.

Mahomes finished 20 of 30 for a season-low 185 yards in his European debut, but the Chiefs’ offense struggled in the second half. Tight end Travis Kelce had just three catches for 14 yards.

Three Chiefs players combined to put Kansas City up 21-0 just before halftime on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1721194625904316925">one of the top defensive plays of the season</a>&nbsp;so far.

And it came at the expense of former teammate Tyreek Hill.

With the Dolphins driving late in the first half, cornerback Trent McDuffie stuffed Hill on a short pass in the flat and stripped the ball from the All-Pro receiver. Mike Edwards scooped it up and after Hill tried to tackle him, Edwards lateraled to Cook, who returned it for the score.

Hill finished with a team-high eight catches for 62 yards.

Taylor Swift was a no-show, as was Miami’s offense early on. The only thing more surprising than Miami’s first-half struggles on offense was referee Clay Martin making&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1721177826412376366">a “false start” call in German</a>&nbsp;in the first quarter.

Miami hadn’t been shut out in the first half of a game since Week 2 of the 2021 season.

But Tagovailoa got the comeback started with a 31-yard touchdown pass to Cedric Wilson Jr. in the third quarter.

Bradley Chubb’s strip-sack of Mahomes then gave Miami the ball on the Kansas City 27, and Raheem Mostert ran it in from 13 yards after an unnecessary roughness call on Chris Jones on a third-and-20 keep the drive alive. Mostert had 12 carries for 85 yards.

Tagovailoa finished 21 of 34 for a season-low 193 yards.

Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle was slow to get up after blocking on rushing attempt on Miami's first drive. He returned on the second drive and took a reverse for a 12-yard gain. ... OL Robert Jones was helped off the field early in the fourth quarter.

Dolphins: Bye week and then host the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 19.

Chiefs: Bye week before a Monday night Super Bowl rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles at Arrowhead Stadium on Nov. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699210656987.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes, safety Bryan Cook scored on a 59-yard fumble return, and the Kansas City Chiefs held on to beat the Miami Dolphins 21-14 on Sunday at Deutsche Bank Park.The Chiefs (7-2) did just enough to slow the NFL’s top-ranked offense in the first-ever regular season game in Frankfurt, but nearly blew a big lead.Miami's comeback fell short when quarterback Tua Tagovailoa couldn't handle a snap on fourth-and-10 from the Kansas City 31 with 1:03 to play.Mahomes connected on first-half scoring passes to Rashee Rice and Jerick McKinnon as Miami (6-3) kept getting stuck in third-and-long situations. The Dolphins also fell to 0-3 on the season against teams with winning records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699228229376.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, in Frankfurt, Germany. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, in Frankfurt, Germany. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner).</figcaption>
 </figure>Mahomes finished 20 of 30 for a season-low 185 yards in his European debut, but the Chiefs’ offense struggled in the second half. Tight end Travis Kelce had just three catches for 14 yards.Three Chiefs players combined to put Kansas City up 21-0 just before halftime on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1721194625904316925">one of the top defensive plays of the season</a>&nbsp;so far.And it came at the expense of former teammate Tyreek Hill.With the Dolphins driving late in the first half, cornerback Trent McDuffie stuffed Hill on a short pass in the flat and stripped the ball from the All-Pro receiver. Mike Edwards scooped it up and after Hill tried to tackle him, Edwards lateraled to Cook, who returned it for the score.Hill finished with a team-high eight catches for 62 yards.Taylor Swift was a no-show, as was Miami’s offense early on. The only thing more surprising than Miami’s first-half struggles on offense was referee Clay Martin making&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1721177826412376366">a “false start” call in German</a>&nbsp;in the first quarter.Miami hadn’t been shut out in the first half of a game since Week 2 of the 2021 season.But Tagovailoa got the comeback started with a 31-yard touchdown pass to Cedric Wilson Jr. in the third quarter.Bradley Chubb’s strip-sack of Mahomes then gave Miami the ball on the Kansas City 27, and Raheem Mostert ran it in from 13 yards after an unnecessary roughness call on Chris Jones on a third-and-20 keep the drive alive. Mostert had 12 carries for 85 yards.Tagovailoa finished 21 of 34 for a season-low 193 yards.INJURIESDolphins WR Jaylen Waddle was slow to get up after blocking on rushing attempt on Miami's first drive. He returned on the second drive and took a reverse for a 12-yard gain. ... OL Robert Jones was helped off the field early in the fourth quarter.UP NEXTDolphins: Bye week and then host the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 19.Chiefs: Bye week before a Monday night Super Bowl rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles at Arrowhead Stadium on Nov. 20.

Chiefs hang on to beat Dolphins in Germany

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Jason Bean passed for 287 yards, including an 80-yard touchdown to Lawrence Arnold after Iowa State pulled within three points in the fourth quarter, and the No. 22 Jayhawks held off the Cyclones for a 28-21 victory Saturday night.

The Jayhawks (7-2, 4-2 Big 12) won consecutive conference games for the first time since 2008. They also reached the seven-win benchmark and won in Ames for the first time since that '08 season.

Iowa State (5-4, 4-2) began the day in a five-way tie for first place in the Big 12, but the Cyclones' comeback bid came up short after they trailed 21-3 with 9:24 left in the third quarter.

Bean completed 14 of 23 passes, his biggest one to Arnold giving Kansas a 10-point cushion right after Iowa State had scored to make it 21-18. Arnold got behind the secondary to make the catch at the 50 and ran the rest of the way untouched.

A field goal got the Cyclones within 28-21 with 4:53 left. The Jayhawks were able to pick up two first downs on their final possession to run out the clock.

Arnold finished with 112 yards on three catches.

Kansas' Devin Neal scored the first of his two touchdowns on the game's opening series, capping a nine-play, 87-yard drive.

Mello Dotson returned an interception 50 yards for Kansas' second touchdown, and his second pick-six in two games. The Jayhawks missed two field goals before Iowa State trimmed the margin to 14-3 on Chase Contreraz's 35-yard kick before halftime.

Neal's second touchdown completed a 75-yard drive to start the third quarter and gave Kansas a 21-3 lead.

The first two times Kansas was in the Top 25 this season, it lost its next game. The Jayhawks should stay in the rankings a second straight week.

Kansas' Dotson appeared woozy after hitting his head while making a diving tackle of Dimitri Stanley with 10 seconds left in the first half. Athletic trainers tended to Dotson on the field for a few minutes, but he was able to walk off the field on his own.

Bean grabbed the back of his left leg after ISU’s Will McLaughlin hit him low after he threw a pass in the second half. No. 3 quarterback Cole Ballard came on to take one snap.

Iowa State's defense neutralized the top running back duo in the Power Five. Neal and Daniel Hishaw came into Saturday with a combined 1,259 rushing yards on the season but netted a combined 86 yards on 30 carries. Neal ended up with 57 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699155934075.jpeg" alt="Kansas wide receiver Lawrence Arnold (2) catchers a pass over Iowa State defensive back Jontez Williams (31) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas wide receiver Lawrence Arnold (2) catchers a pass over Iowa State defensive back Jontez Williams (31) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)</figcaption>
 </figure>AMES, Iowa (AP) — Jason Bean passed for 287 yards, including an 80-yard touchdown to Lawrence Arnold after Iowa State pulled within three points in the fourth quarter, and the No. 22 Jayhawks held off the Cyclones for a 28-21 victory Saturday night.The Jayhawks (7-2, 4-2 Big 12) won consecutive conference games for the first time since 2008. They also reached the seven-win benchmark and won in Ames for the first time since that '08 season.Iowa State (5-4, 4-2) began the day in a five-way tie for first place in the Big 12, but the Cyclones' comeback bid came up short after they trailed 21-3 with 9:24 left in the third quarter.Bean completed 14 of 23 passes, his biggest one to Arnold giving Kansas a 10-point cushion right after Iowa State had scored to make it 21-18. Arnold got behind the secondary to make the catch at the 50 and ran the rest of the way untouched.A field goal got the Cyclones within 28-21 with 4:53 left. The Jayhawks were able to pick up two first downs on their final possession to run out the clock.Arnold finished with 112 yards on three catches.Kansas' Devin Neal scored the first of his two touchdowns on the game's opening series, capping a nine-play, 87-yard drive.Mello Dotson returned an interception 50 yards for Kansas' second touchdown, and his second pick-six in two games. The Jayhawks missed two field goals before Iowa State trimmed the margin to 14-3 on Chase Contreraz's 35-yard kick before halftime.Neal's second touchdown completed a 75-yard drive to start the third quarter and gave Kansas a 21-3 lead.POLL IMPLICATIONSThe first two times Kansas was in the Top 25 this season, it lost its next game. The Jayhawks should stay in the rankings a second straight week.INJURY REPORTKansas' Dotson appeared woozy after hitting his head while making a diving tackle of Dimitri Stanley with 10 seconds left in the first half. Athletic trainers tended to Dotson on the field for a few minutes, but he was able to walk off the field on his own.Bean grabbed the back of his left leg after ISU’s Will McLaughlin hit him low after he threw a pass in the second half. No. 3 quarterback Cole Ballard came on to take one snap.NOT GAINING ON THE GROUNDIowa State's defense neutralized the top running back duo in the Power Five. Neal and Daniel Hishaw came into Saturday with a combined 1,259 rushing yards on the season but netted a combined 86 yards on 30 carries. Neal ended up with 57 rushing yards and two touchdowns.UP NEXTKansas hosts Texas Tech on Saturday.

No. 22 Kansas holds off Iowa State to reach 7-win mark 

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>ESPN announced late Saturday night that Kansas State’s home game next week against Baylor will kick at 2 p.m., and will be shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+.</a>

Kansas State will be in search of its second-straight win over the Bears following a 31-3 victory last year in Waco, Texas, a win that snapped a four-game losing streak in the series. The Wildcats will be looking for their first home win over Baylor since a 33-20 victory in 2017.

Standing-room only tickets for the game against the Bears are on sale for $62 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner. Fraudulent tickets are often seen on gamedays, and K-State Athletics can only verify secondary market tickets and assist fans with issues on gamedays with tickets that are purchased directly from SeatGeek.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>ESPN announced late Saturday night that Kansas State’s home game next week against Baylor will kick at 2 p.m., and will be shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+.</a>Kansas State will be in search of its second-straight win over the Bears following a 31-3 victory last year in Waco, Texas, a win that snapped a four-game losing streak in the series. The Wildcats will be looking for their first home win over Baylor since a 33-20 victory in 2017.Standing-room only tickets for the game against the Bears are on sale for $62 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner. Fraudulent tickets are often seen on gamedays, and K-State Athletics can only verify secondary market tickets and assist fans with issues on gamedays with tickets that are purchased directly from SeatGeek.RYAN LACKEY

K-State’s Game vs. Baylor to Kick at 2 p.m. on Big 12 Now

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas was dominant for most of three quarters against Kansas State, building a comfortable 20-point lead behind a suffocating defense.

Then the No. 7 Longhorns found themselves in overtime, clinging to a three point lead with just six yards between the No. 25 Wildcats, the end zone and a loss.

“These are the moments you live for. Everybody wants to be the person to make that play,” Texas defensive back Jahdae Barron said. “Trust one another. And that's what we did.”

With a chance to win and all the momentum, Kansas State gained just two yards in three plays before Texas' Barryn Sorrell pressured Will Howard into a desperate, off-balance pass that fell incomplete, as the Longhorns made Bert Auburn's 42-yard field goal stand up for a 33-30 win that keeps them atop the Big 12.

Texas (8-1, 5-1 Big 12, No. 7 CFP) matched last season's win total and stayed on track for a possible berth in the Big 12 championship game. Texas hasn't won the league since 2009, and this is the last chance before the program leaves for the Southeastern Conference next season.

“Versatility, resilience, perseverance ... those are all qualities championship teams have,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said. “They can make plays at critical moments.”

That was Kansas State (6-3, 402, No. 23 CFP) when the Wildcats came storming back from a 27-7 deficit late in the third quarter. Kansas State rallied behind three touchdown passes from Howard in less than three minutes.

Kansas State forced overtime on Chris Tennant's 45-yard field goal with 1 second left. Tennant had earlier missed a short chance to tie with just under two minutes left.

Texas went nowhere on its first possession of overtime before Auburn's go-ahead kick, his fourth field goal of the game. Kansas State was then quickly inside the Texas 10.

Facing fourth down, the Wildcats went for the win instead of another field goal to tie and more overtime. Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said he didn't hesitate to make the call and would do it again if given another chance.

“Our kids always believe we have a shot,” Klieman said. “I’m upset that we lost, but watching what our guys were able to do in the second half was pretty special.”

Jonathon Brooks ran for 112 yards and a touchdown for Texas, which also got a 54-yard scoring run early from C.J. Baxter. Howard passed for 327 yards and four touchdowns for the Wildcats, two of them to Phillip Brooks.

Kansas State's rally was helped by consecutive Texas turnovers — an interception and fumble — that set up two quick Howard touchdown passes. A blocked punt set up Kansas State's only touchdown in the first half.

“It tested us. It tested our resilience," Sarkisian said. “It tested our culture to stick together.”

Texas has been dominant on run defense all season and allowed just 33 yards on the ground Saturday.

“I think we're proving the physicality that Texas can play with on defense that probably hasn't been there in the past decade,” said Texas edge rusher Ethan Burker, who had two sacks. "We're really showing the country how physical and strong we are.

Kansas State: The Wildcats stubbornly stuck to a running game that was going nowhere in the first half. Even when they rotated in speedy freshman quarterback Avery Johnson, his first full series produced three consecutive handoffs instead of letting him probe for an opening. The Wildcats moved the ball through the air on a short scoring drive in the second quarter before opening up the offense on Howard's passing in the second half.

Texas: Maalik Murphy has managed the last two games at quarterback for Texas but has been erratic and struggled with accuracy and turnovers Saturday. After a quick start Saturday, he threw one interception and two more passes that were dropped by Wildcats defenders. Ewers has been deemed “week-to-week” by coach Steve Sarkisian with a sprained right throwing shoulder.

“Quinn is moving in the right direction" to return, Sarkisian said. "How quickly I don't know yet.”

Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, a transfer from Georgia, caught eight passes for 149 yards and touchdown, his third scoring connection with Murphy in two games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699135850346.jpeg" alt="Kansas State wide receiver Keagan Johnson (10) scores on a touchdown catch against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State wide receiver Keagan Johnson (10) scores on a touchdown catch against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)</figcaption>
 </figure>AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas was dominant for most of three quarters against Kansas State, building a comfortable 20-point lead behind a suffocating defense.Then the No. 7 Longhorns found themselves in overtime, clinging to a three point lead with just six yards between the No. 25 Wildcats, the end zone and a loss.“These are the moments you live for. Everybody wants to be the person to make that play,” Texas defensive back Jahdae Barron said. “Trust one another. And that's what we did.”With a chance to win and all the momentum, Kansas State gained just two yards in three plays before Texas' Barryn Sorrell pressured Will Howard into a desperate, off-balance pass that fell incomplete, as the Longhorns made Bert Auburn's 42-yard field goal stand up for a 33-30 win that keeps them atop the Big 12.Texas (8-1, 5-1 Big 12, No. 7 CFP) matched last season's win total and stayed on track for a possible berth in the Big 12 championship game. Texas hasn't won the league since 2009, and this is the last chance before the program leaves for the Southeastern Conference next season.“Versatility, resilience, perseverance ... those are all qualities championship teams have,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said. “They can make plays at critical moments.”That was Kansas State (6-3, 402, No. 23 CFP) when the Wildcats came storming back from a 27-7 deficit late in the third quarter. Kansas State rallied behind three touchdown passes from Howard in less than three minutes.Kansas State forced overtime on Chris Tennant's 45-yard field goal with 1 second left. Tennant had earlier missed a short chance to tie with just under two minutes left.Texas went nowhere on its first possession of overtime before Auburn's go-ahead kick, his fourth field goal of the game. Kansas State was then quickly inside the Texas 10.Facing fourth down, the Wildcats went for the win instead of another field goal to tie and more overtime. Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said he didn't hesitate to make the call and would do it again if given another chance.“Our kids always believe we have a shot,” Klieman said. “I’m upset that we lost, but watching what our guys were able to do in the second half was pretty special.”Jonathon Brooks ran for 112 yards and a touchdown for Texas, which also got a 54-yard scoring run early from C.J. Baxter. Howard passed for 327 yards and four touchdowns for the Wildcats, two of them to Phillip Brooks.Kansas State's rally was helped by consecutive Texas turnovers — an interception and fumble — that set up two quick Howard touchdown passes. A blocked punt set up Kansas State's only touchdown in the first half.“It tested us. It tested our resilience," Sarkisian said. “It tested our culture to stick together.”STUFFING THE RUNTexas has been dominant on run defense all season and allowed just 33 yards on the ground Saturday.“I think we're proving the physicality that Texas can play with on defense that probably hasn't been there in the past decade,” said Texas edge rusher Ethan Burker, who had two sacks. "We're really showing the country how physical and strong we are.THE TAKEAWAYKansas State: The Wildcats stubbornly stuck to a running game that was going nowhere in the first half. Even when they rotated in speedy freshman quarterback Avery Johnson, his first full series produced three consecutive handoffs instead of letting him probe for an opening. The Wildcats moved the ball through the air on a short scoring drive in the second quarter before opening up the offense on Howard's passing in the second half.Texas: Maalik Murphy has managed the last two games at quarterback for Texas but has been erratic and struggled with accuracy and turnovers Saturday. After a quick start Saturday, he threw one interception and two more passes that were dropped by Wildcats defenders. Ewers has been deemed “week-to-week” by coach Steve Sarkisian with a sprained right throwing shoulder.“Quinn is moving in the right direction" to return, Sarkisian said. "How quickly I don't know yet.”BIG TARGETTexas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, a transfer from Georgia, caught eight passes for 149 yards and touchdown, his third scoring connection with Murphy in two games.UP NEXTKansas State hosts Baylor next Saturday.

FG and late defensive stand lift Texas over Kansas State in OT

The Junction City Blue Jays had their best performance on the field on Friday night but were defeated by number one seeded Washburn Rural 27-20 in the second round of the playoffs. 

Washburn Rural took an early 7-0 lead over Junction City, but the Blue Jays battled back and eventually held a 10-7 lead for most of the second quarter. A late interception in the second quarter led to a short field for the Junior Blues, and Washburn Rural led 13-10 at halftime. 

Rural scored on a deep pass from senior quarterback Branton Deweese to wide receiver Titan Osburn to go up 20-10 early in the third quarter. Again, the Blue Jays fought back, scoring on a 37-yard touchdown connection from senior quarterback Brock Bazan to senior Cooper Bogenhagen. A field goal later in the quarter tied the score at 20-20 going into the final quarter. 

Junction City had several opportunities and a chance to take the lead, but after forcing a punt from the Blue Jay offense, Washburn Rural scored on 70-yard swing pass to Calvin Hayes in what ended up being the game winning touchdown. The Blue Jays had a chance to tie late in the game, but turned the ball over on downs at the Junior Blue 35 yard line. 

It was by far the best performance of the year by the Blue Jays, but Washburn Rural, the only undefeated team in class 6A and the number one seed, escaped and defeated the Blue Jays by a final score of 27-20.

Junction City head football coach Randall Zimmerman expressed how proud he was of his team and how hard they fought throughout the game. "I am just so proud of our kids," Zimmerman said. "I told the kids I love them, and I tell them that everyday. Our mission is to build champions for life. It's all about helping these kids grow up to be great people." 

Zimmerman continued talking about his teams performance, "Tonight we were so close, very close. Just a play or two away from really gaining the momentum, but the what ifs don't get it done."

Junction City finished the year with a final record of 6-4. 

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays had their best performance on the field on Friday night but were defeated by number one seeded Washburn Rural 27-20 in the second round of the playoffs. Washburn Rural took an early 7-0 lead over Junction City, but the Blue Jays battled back and eventually held a 10-7 lead for most of the second quarter. A late interception in the second quarter led to a short field for the Junior Blues, and Washburn Rural led 13-10 at halftime. Rural scored on a deep pass from senior quarterback Branton Deweese to wide receiver Titan Osburn to go up 20-10 early in the third quarter. Again, the Blue Jays fought back, scoring on a 37-yard touchdown connection from senior quarterback Brock Bazan to senior Cooper Bogenhagen. A field goal later in the quarter tied the score at 20-20 going into the final quarter. Junction City had several opportunities and a chance to take the lead, but after forcing a punt from the Blue Jay offense, Washburn Rural scored on 70-yard swing pass to Calvin Hayes in what ended up being the game winning touchdown. The Blue Jays had a chance to tie late in the game, but turned the ball over on downs at the Junior Blue 35 yard line. It was by far the best performance of the year by the Blue Jays, but Washburn Rural, the only undefeated team in class 6A and the number one seed, escaped and defeated the Blue Jays by a final score of 27-20.Junction City head football coach Randall Zimmerman expressed how proud he was of his team and how hard they fought throughout the game. "I am just so proud of our kids," Zimmerman said. "I told the kids I love them, and I tell them that everyday. Our mission is to build champions for life. It's all about helping these kids grow up to be great people." Zimmerman continued talking about his teams performance, "Tonight we were so close, very close. Just a play or two away from really gaining the momentum, but the what ifs don't get it done."Junction City finished the year with a final record of 6-4.

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