LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had 15 points and 15 rebounds, Dajuan Harris Jr. scored 16 points, and No. 1 Kansas shrugged off a sluggish start to beat UNC Wilmington 84-66 on Tuesday night and give Jayhawks coach Bill Self his 800th career win.

David Coit added 13 points and Zeke Mayo had 10 for the Jayhawks (5-0), who led 43-38 at halftime before going on a 12-2 run to start the second half. They stretched the lead to 20 and coasted to their 18th straight nonconference home win.

The Jayhawks next face No. 12 Duke in the Vegas Showdown on Tuesday.

Khamari McGriff had 18 points and Noah Ross had 10 with nine boards for UNC Wilmington (4-1), which was picked to finish third in the Colonial Athletic Association after winning 21 games last season.

The Seahawks weren't intimidated by the 372nd straight sellout at Allen Fieldhouse. They beat Kentucky at Rupp Arena just last season. And while Kansas started the game with energy, UNC Wilmington matched it for the first 20 minutes. It wasn't until Harris led the Jayhawks' early second-half charge that they put the game away.

UNC Wilmington got just seven points from Donovan Newby. He had 20 in a recent win over USC Upstate.

Kansas lost freshman Flory Bidunga to an injury in the first half. He did not put any weight on his right leg as he was helped to the bench. He did not return. Bidunga's loss would be a big blow to the Jayhawks' interior depth.

Kansas roared out of halftime on the run that ultimately decided the game.

The Jayhawks won despite shooting 6 of 25 from 3-point range.

The Seahawks play Colgate on Nov. 27. The Jayhawks play the Blue Devils on Tuesday.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had 15 points and 15 rebounds, Dajuan Harris Jr. scored 16 points, and No. 1 Kansas shrugged off a sluggish start to beat UNC Wilmington 84-66 on Tuesday night and give Jayhawks coach Bill Self his 800th career win.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">History made. <a href="https://t.co/jYdSuHOe7v">pic.twitter.com/jYdSuHOe7v</a>&mdash; Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1859070225657839705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>David Coit added 13 points and Zeke Mayo had 10 for the Jayhawks (5-0), who led 43-38 at halftime before going on a 12-2 run to start the second half. They stretched the lead to 20 and coasted to their 18th straight nonconference home win.The Jayhawks next face No. 12 Duke in the Vegas Showdown on Tuesday.Khamari McGriff had 18 points and Noah Ross had 10 with nine boards for UNC Wilmington (4-1), which was picked to finish third in the Colonial Athletic Association after winning 21 games last season.The Seahawks weren't intimidated by the 372nd straight sellout at Allen Fieldhouse. They beat Kentucky at Rupp Arena just last season. And while Kansas started the game with energy, UNC Wilmington matched it for the first 20 minutes. It wasn't until Harris led the Jayhawks' early second-half charge that they put the game away.<h2>Takeaways</h2>UNC Wilmington got just seven points from Donovan Newby. He had 20 in a recent win over USC Upstate.Kansas lost freshman Flory Bidunga to an injury in the first half. He did not put any weight on his right leg as he was helped to the bench. He did not return. Bidunga's loss would be a big blow to the Jayhawks' interior depth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kansas roared out of halftime on the run that ultimately decided the game.<h2>Key stats</h2>The Jayhawks won despite shooting 6 of 25 from 3-point range.<h2>Up Next</h2>The Seahawks play Colgate on Nov. 27. The Jayhawks play the Blue Devils on Tuesday.___

🏀 No. 1 KU beats UNC Wilmington to give Bill Self 800th career win

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Ugonna Onyenso came off the bench to score 16 points in 12 minutes and Kansas State shook off a poor first half to beat Mississippi Valley State 74-56 on Tuesday night.

On a night the Wildcats (3-1) shot just 36%, Onyenso was 6 of 7 from the floor and made all four of his free throws. C.J. Jones scored 10 of his 12 points in the second half. David N’Guessan added 10 points while Coleman Hawkins, who was just 1-of-11 shooting with two points, grabbed 13 rebounds.

Arthur Tate scored 16 points and Antonio Sisk 15 for the Delta Devils (1-4).

The Wildcats led 25-23 at halftime, having been up by as many as 14, after shooting just 29% and 1 of 13 from 3-point range. They finished 3 of 23 from the arc but hit 25 of 27 free throws.

Brenden Hausen, averaging over 15 points a game for Kansas State, got his first points of the game and the Wildcats' first of the second half with a 3-pointer, and that started a 10-0 run. The lead reached 19 with seven minutes to go.

Mississippi Valley State made a final run to get within 10 but the Wildcats responded with nine straight points, the last four by N'Guessan, to push the lead back to 19.

In the first half, the Delta Devils got a pair of 3-pointers from Tate and five points from Donovan Sanders to outscore the Wildcats 16-4 over the final 4 1/2 minutes to tie before David Castillo's jumper at the end of the half gave the lead back to the Wildcats.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732072855675.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Ugonna Onyenso came off the bench to score 16 points in 12 minutes and Kansas State shook off a poor first half to beat Mississippi Valley State 74-56 on Tuesday night.On a night the Wildcats (3-1) shot just 36%, Onyenso was 6 of 7 from the floor and made all four of his free throws. C.J. Jones scored 10 of his 12 points in the second half. David N’Guessan added 10 points while Coleman Hawkins, who was just 1-of-11 shooting with two points, grabbed 13 rebounds.Arthur Tate scored 16 points and Antonio Sisk 15 for the Delta Devils (1-4).The Wildcats led 25-23 at halftime, having been up by as many as 14, after shooting just 29% and 1 of 13 from 3-point range. They finished 3 of 23 from the arc but hit 25 of 27 free throws.Brenden Hausen, averaging over 15 points a game for Kansas State, got his first points of the game and the Wildcats' first of the second half with a 3-pointer, and that started a 10-0 run. The lead reached 19 with seven minutes to go.Mississippi Valley State made a final run to get within 10 but the Wildcats responded with nine straight points, the last four by N'Guessan, to push the lead back to 19.In the first half, the Delta Devils got a pair of 3-pointers from Tate and five points from Donovan Sanders to outscore the Wildcats 16-4 over the final 4 1/2 minutes to tie before David Castillo's jumper at the end of the half gave the lead back to the Wildcats.

🏀 Onyenso sparks Kansas State in win over Mississippi Valley State

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Kansas State junior&nbsp;DJ Giddens&nbsp;was one of 10 running backs in the country – including four from the Big 12 – to be named a semifinalist for the 2024 Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Tuesday.

Giddens is the fourth player in school history to be named a semifinalist or finalist for the award that recognizes the top running back in college football. Darren Sproles was a finalist in 2003, while Daniel Thomas (2010) and Deuce Vaughn (2021 and 2022) were each semifinalists.

A product of Junction City, Kansas, Giddens has rushed for 1,128 yards and five touchdowns on 176 carries in addition to hauling in 18 catches for 219 yards and another score. He ranks eighth in the country in scrimmage yards per game (134.70), ninth in total rushing yards, 10th&nbsp;in all-purpose yards per game (134.70) and 15th&nbsp;in rushing yards per carry (6.41).

Giddens is the fourth player in school history to record multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons, joining the aforementioned Sproles (2002, 2003, 2004), Thomas (2009, 2010) and Vaughn (2021, 2022). He ranks second in school history in single-season rushing yards per carry (6.41), sixth in rushing yards per game (112.8) and tied for eighth in 100-yard rushing games (6), while he is 98 rushing yards shy of entering the single-season top-10 list and 13 yards away from tying for fifth in school history among juniors.

Three finalists for the 2024 Doak Walker Award will be announced next Tuesday, and the winner will be unveiled live on ESPN during&nbsp;The Home Depot College Football Awards&nbsp;on December 12. The formal presentation of the award will take place at the annual banquet scheduled for January 31, 2025.

Kansas State returns to action on Saturday when the Wildcats host Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Senior Night contest kicks off at 7 p.m., and will be shown on ESPN 2.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Kansas State junior&nbsp;DJ Giddens&nbsp;was one of 10 running backs in the country – including four from the Big 12 – to be named a semifinalist for the 2024 Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Tuesday.Giddens is the fourth player in school history to be named a semifinalist or finalist for the award that recognizes the top running back in college football. Darren Sproles was a finalist in 2003, while Daniel Thomas (2010) and Deuce Vaughn (2021 and 2022) were each semifinalists.A product of Junction City, Kansas, Giddens has rushed for 1,128 yards and five touchdowns on 176 carries in addition to hauling in 18 catches for 219 yards and another score. He ranks eighth in the country in scrimmage yards per game (134.70), ninth in total rushing yards, 10th&nbsp;in all-purpose yards per game (134.70) and 15th&nbsp;in rushing yards per carry (6.41).Giddens is the fourth player in school history to record multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons, joining the aforementioned Sproles (2002, 2003, 2004), Thomas (2009, 2010) and Vaughn (2021, 2022). He ranks second in school history in single-season rushing yards per carry (6.41), sixth in rushing yards per game (112.8) and tied for eighth in 100-yard rushing games (6), while he is 98 rushing yards shy of entering the single-season top-10 list and 13 yards away from tying for fifth in school history among juniors.Three finalists for the 2024 Doak Walker Award will be announced next Tuesday, and the winner will be unveiled live on ESPN during&nbsp;The Home Depot College Football Awards&nbsp;on December 12. The formal presentation of the award will take place at the annual banquet scheduled for January 31, 2025.Kansas State returns to action on Saturday when the Wildcats host Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Senior Night contest kicks off at 7 p.m., and will be shown on ESPN 2.RYAN LACKEY

K-State’s Giddens Named Semifinalist for Doak Walker Award

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23756&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-november-18-2024/4923">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-november-18-2024/4924">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview K-State’s Senior Night contest against Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.

“Good afternoon, every. Obviously, it was a disappointing performance on Saturday. [We] had a long staff meeting yesterday. We talked about a lot of things. It's interesting because, looking at our offense, defense and special teams, I don't think anybody could point a finger to anybody, because I don’t think any unit played up to its capability. We struggled on third down on defense, we struggled to rush the football early, had a couple of turnovers, couldn't get off the field, had a couple opportunities to kick up the field that maybe could have made it a one-score game late. Didn't do it. 

So, we’ve got some guys hurting. I know that because they want to win and want to be successful. Our job is this week to get them right and right the ship because we have another opportunity at home here. These seniors, especially these six-year guys that came in with me when I started, and the fifth-year guys that have been around us for a long time, I want to make sure that those guys have an opportunity to go out well and go out successfully. So, we've got to attack this week and have a really good week of practice. 

We've got some guys banged up that we don't know a lot about yet. That will probably be more later in the week, but we do have some injury issues that we've got to make sure that we have enough depth.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=23756&amp;type=Archive">Watch Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/chris-klieman-press-conference-november-18-2024/4923">Listen to Coach Klieman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/podcasts/player-breakout-interviews-november-18-2024/4924">Listen to Player Breakout Interviews</a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview K-State’s Senior Night contest against Cincinnati inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above in addition to an audio link of player breakout interviews. A transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.CHRIS KLIEMAN, HEAD COACHOpening Statement…“Good afternoon, every. Obviously, it was a disappointing performance on Saturday. [We] had a long staff meeting yesterday. We talked about a lot of things. It's interesting because, looking at our offense, defense and special teams, I don't think anybody could point a finger to anybody, because I don’t think any unit played up to its capability. We struggled on third down on defense, we struggled to rush the football early, had a couple of turnovers, couldn't get off the field, had a couple opportunities to kick up the field that maybe could have made it a one-score game late. Didn't do it. So, we’ve got some guys hurting. I know that because they want to win and want to be successful. Our job is this week to get them right and right the ship because we have another opportunity at home here. These seniors, especially these six-year guys that came in with me when I started, and the fifth-year guys that have been around us for a long time, I want to make sure that those guys have an opportunity to go out well and go out successfully. So, we've got to attack this week and have a really good week of practice. We've got some guys banged up that we don't know a lot about yet. That will probably be more later in the week, but we do have some injury issues that we've got to make sure that we have enough depth.”

K-State Previews Home Finale During Weekly Press Conference

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1858303241391427722">ran for a 26-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;on fourth down with 2:17 left, sealing the Buffalo Bills' 30-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and handing the two-time defending Super Bowl champions their first loss of the season.

James Cook rushed for two touchdowns and Allen threw a 12-yard TD pass to Curtis Samuel for Buffalo (9-2), which closed the gap on Kansas City (9-1) in the race for the AFC’s top seed.

Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs were the NFL's last undefeated team and finally ran out ways to eke out one-score victories and overcome second-half deficits. The Chiefs had won 15 straight, including playoffs, since they fell 20-14 to the Las Vegas Raiders on Dec. 17, 2023.

The Bills have won six straight and moved closer to their sixth straight AFC East title.

Buffalo has defeated the Chiefs in four straight regular-season meetings, though Kansas City holds the postseason edge, having won the past three matchups dating to 2020. And it wouldn't be a surprise if the teams met again in January.

The packed stadium erupted in chants of “MVP!” as the videoboard showed replays of Allen’s touchdown. Bills coach Sean McDermott opted to go for it on fourth-and-2 instead of kicking a field goal for a five-point lead. Allen faked a pass to his left and then broke up the middle, where he bounced off two Chiefs defenders before crossing the goal line.

Allen played through a sore throwing hand, which was examined on the sideline during the game. He finished 27 of 40 for 262 yards with the TDs passing and rushing and an interception.

The rushing touchdown was the 58th of Allen’s career, moving him into second on the Bills list, one ahead of O.J. Simpson, and seven behind Thurman Thomas. Allen’s two-touchdown outing also increased his total to 244, tying Jim Kelly for first in team history.

Buffalo’s defense ended Kansas City's desperate final drive linebacker Terrel Bernard intercepted Mahomes.

Mahomes finished 23 of 33 for 196 yards with three touchdown passes -- two to tight end Noah Gray and another to Xavier Worthy — and two interceptions.

After trading leads five times in their last meeting — Kansas City’s 27-24 win in the divisional playoff round in January — the teams traded leads four times in the first half. Cook scored twice before halftime and Buffalo took a 16-14 lead into the break, one it never relinquished, after Tyler Bass closed the second quarter by hitting a 33-yard field goal.

A highly anticipated showdown between two of the NFL’s top quarterbacks turned into a battle of defenses through three quarters with the teams exchanging seven punts in calm and mild conditions, with temperatures in the high 40s and minimal wind.

The Bills went ahead 23-14 a little over two minutes into the fourth quarter when Allen capped a 10-play, 83-yard drive with a short pass to Samuel, who sidestepped a defender and raced into the end zone.

Mahomes responded by marching the Chiefs on a 10-play, 70-yard drive that ended with a 1-yard TD catch by Gray with 7:53 left.

The Chiefs had shown resolve in winning their first nine games by a combined 58 points, with four decided on the final play. That included a 16-14 win over Denver last week in which Leo Chenal blocked Wil Lutz’s 35-yard field goal attempt as time expired.

This time there were no late-game dramatics for a Chiefs offense that finished with a season-low 259 yards.

The matchup was just the fifth since 1970 in Week 11 or earlier between teams with eight or more wins. ... Bills DE Von Miller had a sack, moving into sole possession of 17th place on the NFL list with 127 1/2 — one ahead of Derrick Thomas and a half-sack behind Rickey Jackson.

Bills: WR Amari Cooper returned after missing two games with an injury to his left wrist. ... Starting RT Spencer Brown (ankle) did not play.

Bills: After a bye, host San Francisco on Dec. 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731889979914.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1858303241391427722">ran for a 26-yard touchdown</a>&nbsp;on fourth down with 2:17 left, sealing the Buffalo Bills' 30-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and handing the two-time defending Super Bowl champions their first loss of the season.James Cook rushed for two touchdowns and Allen threw a 12-yard TD pass to Curtis Samuel for Buffalo (9-2), which closed the gap on Kansas City (9-1) in the race for the AFC’s top seed.Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs were the NFL's last undefeated team and finally ran out ways to eke out one-score victories and overcome second-half deficits. The Chiefs had won 15 straight, including playoffs, since they fell 20-14 to the Las Vegas Raiders on Dec. 17, 2023.The Bills have won six straight and moved closer to their sixth straight AFC East title.Buffalo has defeated the Chiefs in four straight regular-season meetings, though Kansas City holds the postseason edge, having won the past three matchups dating to 2020. And it wouldn't be a surprise if the teams met again in January.The packed stadium erupted in chants of “MVP!” as the videoboard showed replays of Allen’s touchdown. Bills coach Sean McDermott opted to go for it on fourth-and-2 instead of kicking a field goal for a five-point lead. Allen faked a pass to his left and then broke up the middle, where he bounced off two Chiefs defenders before crossing the goal line.Allen played through a sore throwing hand, which was examined on the sideline during the game. He finished 27 of 40 for 262 yards with the TDs passing and rushing and an interception.The rushing touchdown was the 58th of Allen’s career, moving him into second on the Bills list, one ahead of O.J. Simpson, and seven behind Thurman Thomas. Allen’s two-touchdown outing also increased his total to 244, tying Jim Kelly for first in team history.Buffalo’s defense ended Kansas City's desperate final drive linebacker Terrel Bernard intercepted Mahomes.Mahomes finished 23 of 33 for 196 yards with three touchdown passes -- two to tight end Noah Gray and another to Xavier Worthy — and two interceptions.After trading leads five times in their last meeting — Kansas City’s 27-24 win in the divisional playoff round in January — the teams traded leads four times in the first half. Cook scored twice before halftime and Buffalo took a 16-14 lead into the break, one it never relinquished, after Tyler Bass closed the second quarter by hitting a 33-yard field goal.A highly anticipated showdown between two of the NFL’s top quarterbacks turned into a battle of defenses through three quarters with the teams exchanging seven punts in calm and mild conditions, with temperatures in the high 40s and minimal wind.The Bills went ahead 23-14 a little over two minutes into the fourth quarter when Allen capped a 10-play, 83-yard drive with a short pass to Samuel, who sidestepped a defender and raced into the end zone.Mahomes responded by marching the Chiefs on a 10-play, 70-yard drive that ended with a 1-yard TD catch by Gray with 7:53 left.The Chiefs had shown resolve in winning their first nine games by a combined 58 points, with four decided on the final play. That included a 16-14 win over Denver last week in which Leo Chenal blocked Wil Lutz’s 35-yard field goal attempt as time expired.This time there were no late-game dramatics for a Chiefs offense that finished with a season-low 259 yards.<h2>Names and numbers</h2>The matchup was just the fifth since 1970 in Week 11 or earlier between teams with eight or more wins. ... Bills DE Von Miller had a sack, moving into sole possession of 17th place on the NFL list with 127 1/2 — one ahead of Derrick Thomas and a half-sack behind Rickey Jackson.<h2>Injuries</h2>Bills: WR Amari Cooper returned after missing two games with an injury to his left wrist. ... Starting RT Spencer Brown (ankle) did not play.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: At Carolina next Sunday.Bills: After a bye, host San Francisco on Dec. 1.___

🏈 Buffalo hands Kansas City first loss of the season

PROVO, Utah (AP) — Jalon Daniels threw for 169 yards, Dylan Neal ran for two touchdowns and Kansas upset No. 7 BYU 17-13 on Saturday night to hand the Cougars their first loss of the season.

The Jayhawks (4-6, 3-4 Big 12) beat ranked opponents in back-to-back weeks for the first time in school history and improved to 3-0 against the Cougars. Neal surpassed 4,000 yards rushing in his career, finishing with 52 yards on the ground.

The victory over BYU kept alive hopes of Kansas qualifying for a bowl game for a third consecutive season following a 1-5 start.

“I feel like our team has always done a great job being able to stay the course,” Daniels said. “I feel like a big staple within our program is being able to trust the process.”

Jake Retzlaff threw for 192 yards for BYU (9-1, 6-1, No. 6 College Football Playoffs). LJ Martin ran for 76 yards for the Cougars, who were held to a field goal in the second half.

BYU totaled 354 yards but went just 2 of 4 in the red zone and came away with no touchdowns on all four drives inside the 20.

“They had a really good game plan,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said. “Looking at the stats, we just didn’t make enough plays and (made) way too many mistakes to come out with the victory. “

Trailing 13-10 entering the fourth quarter, Kansas went ahead on Neal’s 3-yard run.

Daniels quick-kicked on fourth-and-14 when the drive stalled at BYU’s 36. His kick deflected off Evan Johnson’s helmet and when Jakob Robinson dove to secure it, the ball squirted out of his arms. Quentin Skinner pounced on the loose ball at the 3 to set up the go-ahead score.

“We found a way this time,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said.

BYU drove to the Kansas 15 with two minutes left. The Cougars stalled on offense coming out of the two-minute timeout. They gained four total yards on three straight runs and a false start penalty backed them up to the 16. BYU turned it over on downs with 46 seconds left when Chase Roberts was tackled 3 yards short of a first down.

“We had all the confidence in the world in our defense to be able to go out there and make a stop,” Daniels said.

Both teams scored a touchdown in the first half. Kansas took a 7-0 lead on its opening drive following Neal’s 7-yard burst up the middle. BYU went ahead 10-7 in the second quarter on a 30-yard strike along the sideline from Retzlaff to Hinckley Ropati.

The Cougars had a chance at another go-ahead score before halftime when they drove 70 yards over a minute down to Kansas 5. Mello Dotson intercepted Retzlaff in the end zone on a fade route to keep BYU from putting another touchdown on the board.

“We can’t score in the red zone,” Roberts said. “I feel like we struggled a little bit in practice this week in the red zone, and it carries over. You got to lock in. You got to be prepared when you come out and play a good team like Kansas.”

Kansas: The Jayhawks took care of the ball and made smart decisions against an opportunistic BYU defense that ultimately forced only one turnover.

BYU: A turnover prevented a potential go-ahead score before halftime. A second one led to a late Kansas lead.

BYU opened the third quarter with a 17-play drive that covered 66 yards and took 10:26 off the clock. The drive culminated in a 35-yard field goal from Will Ferrin that ended up being the Cougars' only second-half points.

“It didn’t seem like it was going to ever end,” Leipold said. “That might be one of the longest drives I’ve seen in my career. 17 plays. But to hold them to that field goal was huge.”

BYU will likely drop out of the Top 10 following its first loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731816623983.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVO, Utah (AP) — Jalon Daniels threw for 169 yards, Dylan Neal ran for two touchdowns and Kansas upset No. 7 BYU 17-13 on Saturday night to hand the Cougars their first loss of the season.The Jayhawks (4-6, 3-4 Big 12) beat ranked opponents in back-to-back weeks for the first time in school history and improved to 3-0 against the Cougars. Neal surpassed 4,000 yards rushing in his career, finishing with 52 yards on the ground.The victory over BYU kept alive hopes of Kansas qualifying for a bowl game for a third consecutive season following a 1-5 start.“I feel like our team has always done a great job being able to stay the course,” Daniels said. “I feel like a big staple within our program is being able to trust the process.”Jake Retzlaff threw for 192 yards for BYU (9-1, 6-1, No. 6 College Football Playoffs). LJ Martin ran for 76 yards for the Cougars, who were held to a field goal in the second half.BYU totaled 354 yards but went just 2 of 4 in the red zone and came away with no touchdowns on all four drives inside the 20.“They had a really good game plan,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said. “Looking at the stats, we just didn’t make enough plays and (made) way too many mistakes to come out with the victory. “Trailing 13-10 entering the fourth quarter, Kansas went ahead on Neal’s 3-yard run.Daniels quick-kicked on fourth-and-14 when the drive stalled at BYU’s 36. His kick deflected off Evan Johnson’s helmet and when Jakob Robinson dove to secure it, the ball squirted out of his arms. Quentin Skinner pounced on the loose ball at the 3 to set up the go-ahead score.“We found a way this time,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said.BYU drove to the Kansas 15 with two minutes left. The Cougars stalled on offense coming out of the two-minute timeout. They gained four total yards on three straight runs and a false start penalty backed them up to the 16. BYU turned it over on downs with 46 seconds left when Chase Roberts was tackled 3 yards short of a first down.“We had all the confidence in the world in our defense to be able to go out there and make a stop,” Daniels said.Both teams scored a touchdown in the first half. Kansas took a 7-0 lead on its opening drive following Neal’s 7-yard burst up the middle. BYU went ahead 10-7 in the second quarter on a 30-yard strike along the sideline from Retzlaff to Hinckley Ropati.The Cougars had a chance at another go-ahead score before halftime when they drove 70 yards over a minute down to Kansas 5. Mello Dotson intercepted Retzlaff in the end zone on a fade route to keep BYU from putting another touchdown on the board.“We can’t score in the red zone,” Roberts said. “I feel like we struggled a little bit in practice this week in the red zone, and it carries over. You got to lock in. You got to be prepared when you come out and play a good team like Kansas.”<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks took care of the ball and made smart decisions against an opportunistic BYU defense that ultimately forced only one turnover.BYU: A turnover prevented a potential go-ahead score before halftime. A second one led to a late Kansas lead.<h2>Longest yards</h2>BYU opened the third quarter with a 17-play drive that covered 66 yards and took 10:26 off the clock. The drive culminated in a 35-yard field goal from Will Ferrin that ended up being the Cougars' only second-half points.“It didn’t seem like it was going to ever end,” Leipold said. “That might be one of the longest drives I’ve seen in my career. 17 plays. But to hold them to that field goal was huge.”<h2>Poll implications</h2>BYU will likely drop out of the Top 10 following its first loss.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: Hosts Colorado on Saturday.

🏈 Kansas upsets BYU handing the Cougars their first loss of the season

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Sam Leavitt threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns, Jordyn Tyson had 12 catches for 176 yards and two of the scores, and Arizona State held off No. 16 Kansas State 24-14 on Saturday night in the Sun Devils' first trip to their new Big 12 rival.

Cam Skattebo returned from an injury to run for 73 yards, and the Sun Devils (8-2, 5-2) built a 21-0 halftime lead, before Kenny Dillingham's team held on for a third straight win to remain in contention for the Big 12 championship game.

Avery Johnson threw for 258 yards with two interceptions and a touchdown run for Kansas State (7-3, 4-3, No. 16 CFP), which had been 4-0 at home this season and 15-3 over the past three. D.J. Giddens ran for 133 yards and Joe Jackson had a TD run.

The bumbling Wildcats, who turned the ball over three times and failed to get the snap down on two field-goal tries, sure didn't look like a conference title contender that had last week off to prepare for the Sun Devils.

Johnson was picked off on the second play of the game, and Arizona State marched 49 yards with Leavitt hitting Tyson for the touchdown. On the next series, Dylan Edwards and Giddens were stuffed on consecutive carries, giving the Sun Devils the ball back on downs. And on the Wildcats' third series, Jayce Brown fumbled the ball away after a catch.

Arizona State capitalized on all the mistakes. Leavitt found Tyson for the second time from 30 yards out for a 14-0 lead, then hit wide open Chamon Metayer from 16 yards out to make it 21-0 early in the second quarter.

The cacophony of errors continued for the Wildcats: They had a 67-yard TD reception negated when offensive lineman Andrew Leingang blocked too far downfield. Johnson overthrew wide open Ty Bowman on a would-be 69-yard connection. And with first-and-goal at the Arizona State 5, they not only failed to get into the end zone but fumbled away the field-goal snap.

Arizona State headed to halftime serenaded by the sound of Kansas State fans booing their own team.

The Wildcats tried to rally late, beginning with Johnson's touchdown with 2:51 left in the third quarter. They got the ball back and needed just 1:19 to score again and convert the 2-point conversion. But the Sun Devils picked up a couple of first downs on their next possession, running enough clock to make Kansas State's comeback bid nearly impossible.

The Wildcats muffed one last field-goal try with just over 2 minutes left that would have made it a one-possession game.

Arizona State was picked to finish last in the Big 12 but is very much alive in the title chase. The Sun Devils face seven-ranked BYU, which along with No. 17 Colorado is ahead of them in the standings, at home next week.

Kansas State's Big 12 title chances essentially ended thanks to two straight dismal halves. The Wildcats allowed Houston to rally from a 19-10 second-half deficit in a 24-19 loss, then dug a first-half hole Saturday night that was far too deep.

Arizona State has a showdown with BYU on Saturday.

Kansas State plays its home finale Saturday against Cincinnati.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731815106446.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Sam Leavitt threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns, Jordyn Tyson had 12 catches for 176 yards and two of the scores, and Arizona State held off No. 16 Kansas State 24-14 on Saturday night in the Sun Devils' first trip to their new Big 12 rival.Cam Skattebo returned from an injury to run for 73 yards, and the Sun Devils (8-2, 5-2) built a 21-0 halftime lead, before Kenny Dillingham's team held on for a third straight win to remain in contention for the Big 12 championship game.Avery Johnson threw for 258 yards with two interceptions and a touchdown run for Kansas State (7-3, 4-3, No. 16 CFP), which had been 4-0 at home this season and 15-3 over the past three. D.J. Giddens ran for 133 yards and Joe Jackson had a TD run.The bumbling Wildcats, who turned the ball over three times and failed to get the snap down on two field-goal tries, sure didn't look like a conference title contender that had last week off to prepare for the Sun Devils.Johnson was picked off on the second play of the game, and Arizona State marched 49 yards with Leavitt hitting Tyson for the touchdown. On the next series, Dylan Edwards and Giddens were stuffed on consecutive carries, giving the Sun Devils the ball back on downs. And on the Wildcats' third series, Jayce Brown fumbled the ball away after a catch.Arizona State capitalized on all the mistakes. Leavitt found Tyson for the second time from 30 yards out for a 14-0 lead, then hit wide open Chamon Metayer from 16 yards out to make it 21-0 early in the second quarter.The cacophony of errors continued for the Wildcats: They had a 67-yard TD reception negated when offensive lineman Andrew Leingang blocked too far downfield. Johnson overthrew wide open Ty Bowman on a would-be 69-yard connection. And with first-and-goal at the Arizona State 5, they not only failed to get into the end zone but fumbled away the field-goal snap.Arizona State headed to halftime serenaded by the sound of Kansas State fans booing their own team.The Wildcats tried to rally late, beginning with Johnson's touchdown with 2:51 left in the third quarter. They got the ball back and needed just 1:19 to score again and convert the 2-point conversion. But the Sun Devils picked up a couple of first downs on their next possession, running enough clock to make Kansas State's comeback bid nearly impossible.The Wildcats muffed one last field-goal try with just over 2 minutes left that would have made it a one-possession game.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Arizona State was picked to finish last in the Big 12 but is very much alive in the title chase. The Sun Devils face seven-ranked BYU, which along with No. 17 Colorado is ahead of them in the standings, at home next week.Kansas State's Big 12 title chances essentially ended thanks to two straight dismal halves. The Wildcats allowed Houston to rally from a 19-10 second-half deficit in a 24-19 loss, then dug a first-half hole Saturday night that was far too deep.<h2>Up Next</h2>Arizona State has a showdown with BYU on Saturday.Kansas State plays its home finale Saturday against Cincinnati.___

🏈Arizona State holds on to beat No. 16 Kansas State 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — AJ Storr had a season-high 16 points off the bench and three starters also reached double figures as No. 1 Kansas easily handled Oakland 78-57 on Saturday.

KJ Adams scored 10 of his 12 points in the first half, Rylan Griffen added 11 and Hunter Dickinson finished with 10. Dickinson led the Jayhawks with nine rebounds.

Kansas (4-0) pulled away methodically in the first half, leading by 22 at halftime. The Grizzlies never got closer than 18 in the second half. Kansas played the final 4:32 with only reserves in the game.

Allen Mukeba led Oakland (1-3) with 19 points, and Tuburu Naivalurua added 12.

Oakland struggled from 3-point range, shooting 6 of 23 (27%), and was woeful at the free-throw line (3 for 12).

Oakland: The Grizzlies were no match for Kansas inside during the first half, when the game was decided. They were outrebounded 20-12 and outscored 26-14 in the paint.

Kansas: The Jayhawks have too much depth for a mid-major program like Oakland to overcome. The Jayhawks got points from 11 players. They had 36 bench points, compared to 17 for Oakland.

Dickinson hit a floater in the lane at the 4:37 mark of the first half to give Kansas a 34-17 cushion. Griffen made a baseline 3 just before the buzzer, and the Jayhawks took a 46-24 lead into the locker room.

DaJuan Harris scored only two points in 23 minutes, but he had six assists and just one turnover. He was tenacious on defense, with four steals — including three in the first few minutes of the second half when Kansas eliminated any thoughts of an Oakland comeback.

Oakland returns home to face Eastern Michigan on Thursday. Kansas hosts UNC-Wilmington on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731808768559.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — AJ Storr had a season-high 16 points off the bench and three starters also reached double figures as No. 1 Kansas easily handled Oakland 78-57 on Saturday.KJ Adams scored 10 of his 12 points in the first half, Rylan Griffen added 11 and Hunter Dickinson finished with 10. Dickinson led the Jayhawks with nine rebounds.Kansas (4-0) pulled away methodically in the first half, leading by 22 at halftime. The Grizzlies never got closer than 18 in the second half. Kansas played the final 4:32 with only reserves in the game.Allen Mukeba led Oakland (1-3) with 19 points, and Tuburu Naivalurua added 12.Oakland struggled from 3-point range, shooting 6 of 23 (27%), and was woeful at the free-throw line (3 for 12).<h2>Takeaways</h2>Oakland: The Grizzlies were no match for Kansas inside during the first half, when the game was decided. They were outrebounded 20-12 and outscored 26-14 in the paint.Kansas: The Jayhawks have too much depth for a mid-major program like Oakland to overcome. The Jayhawks got points from 11 players. They had 36 bench points, compared to 17 for Oakland.<h2>Key moments</h2>Dickinson hit a floater in the lane at the 4:37 mark of the first half to give Kansas a 34-17 cushion. Griffen made a baseline 3 just before the buzzer, and the Jayhawks took a 46-24 lead into the locker room.<h2>Key stats</h2>DaJuan Harris scored only two points in 23 minutes, but he had six assists and just one turnover. He was tenacious on defense, with four steals — including three in the first few minutes of the second half when Kansas eliminated any thoughts of an Oakland comeback.<h2>Up next</h2>Oakland returns home to face Eastern Michigan on Thursday. Kansas hosts UNC-Wilmington on Wednesday.

🏀No. 1 Kansas beats Oakland as Storr scores 16 off the bench

DALLAS(AP)— Bela Karolyi, the charismatic if polarizing gymnastics coach who turned young women into champions and the United States into an international power, has died. He was 82.

USA Gymnastics said Karolyi died Friday. No cause of death was given.

Karolyi and wife Martha trained multiple Olympic gold medalists and world champions in the U.S. and Romania, including Nadia Comaneci and Mary Lou Retton.

“A big impact and influence on my life,” Comaneci, who was just 14 when Karolyi coached her to gold for Romania at the 1976 Montreal Olympics,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCc1ex3pJWU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank">posted on Instagram</a>.

The Karolyis defected to the United States in 1981 and over the next 30-plus years became a guiding force in American gymnastics, though not without controversy. Bela helped guide Retton — all of 16 — to the Olympic all-around title at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles and memorably helped an injured Kerri Strug off the floor at the 1996 Games in Atlanta after Strug’s vault secured the team gold for the Americans.

Karolyi briefly became the national team coordinator for USA Gymnastics women’s elite program in 1999 and incorporated a semi-centralized system that eventually turned the Americans into the sport’s gold standard. It did not come without a cost. He was pushed out after the 2000 Olympics after several athletes spoke out about his tactics.

It would not be the last time Karolyi was accused of grandstanding and pushing his athletes too far physically and mentally.

During the height of the Larry Nassar scandal in the late 2010s — when the disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doctor was effectively given a life sentence after pleading guilty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-lansing-in-state-wire-north-america-de31f08ab1fe435c88129d64bd1fbee4">to sexually assaulting gymnasts and other athletes</a>&nbsp;with his hands under the guise of medical treatment — over a dozen former gymnasts came forward saying the Karolyis were part of a system&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0c67e962d7524c87a865d3c468bdd521">that created an oppressive culture</a>&nbsp;that allowed Nassar’s behavior to run unchecked for years.

Still, some of Karolyi’s most famous students were always among his staunchest defenders. When Strug got married, she and Karolyi took a photo recreating their famous scene from the 1996 Olympics, when he carried her onto the medals podium after she vaulted on a badly sprained ankle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731809212531.png" alt="i" />
 <figcaption>i</figcaption>
 </figure>DALLAS(AP)— Bela Karolyi, the charismatic if polarizing gymnastics coach who turned young women into champions and the United States into an international power, has died. He was 82.USA Gymnastics said Karolyi died Friday. No cause of death was given.Karolyi and wife Martha trained multiple Olympic gold medalists and world champions in the U.S. and Romania, including Nadia Comaneci and Mary Lou Retton.“A big impact and influence on my life,” Comaneci, who was just 14 when Karolyi coached her to gold for Romania at the 1976 Montreal Olympics,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCc1ex3pJWU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank">posted on Instagram</a>.The Karolyis defected to the United States in 1981 and over the next 30-plus years became a guiding force in American gymnastics, though not without controversy. Bela helped guide Retton — all of 16 — to the Olympic all-around title at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles and memorably helped an injured Kerri Strug off the floor at the 1996 Games in Atlanta after Strug’s vault secured the team gold for the Americans.Karolyi briefly became the national team coordinator for USA Gymnastics women’s elite program in 1999 and incorporated a semi-centralized system that eventually turned the Americans into the sport’s gold standard. It did not come without a cost. He was pushed out after the 2000 Olympics after several athletes spoke out about his tactics.It would not be the last time Karolyi was accused of grandstanding and pushing his athletes too far physically and mentally.During the height of the Larry Nassar scandal in the late 2010s — when the disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doctor was effectively given a life sentence after pleading guilty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-lansing-in-state-wire-north-america-de31f08ab1fe435c88129d64bd1fbee4">to sexually assaulting gymnasts and other athletes</a>&nbsp;with his hands under the guise of medical treatment — over a dozen former gymnasts came forward saying the Karolyis were part of a system&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0c67e962d7524c87a865d3c468bdd521">that created an oppressive culture</a>&nbsp;that allowed Nassar’s behavior to run unchecked for years.Still, some of Karolyi’s most famous students were always among his staunchest defenders. When Strug got married, she and Karolyi took a photo recreating their famous scene from the 1996 Olympics, when he carried her onto the medals podium after she vaulted on a badly sprained ankle.

Gymnastics coach Bela Karolyi, who trained multiple Olympic gold medalists has died

Victoria 70, Hutchinson Central Christian 28

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731764414412.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PREP FOOTBALL KSHSAA State PlayoffsSectional=Class 6A=BV West 35, SM Northwest 20Derby 63, Wichita East 28Gardner-Edgerton 44, BV Northwest 29Manhattan 49, Wichita Northwest 28Class 5A=Goddard-Eisenhower 44, Topeka Seaman 14Hays 28, Hutchinson 0St. James Academy 45, BV North 6St. Thomas Aquinas 23, Mill Valley 22Class 4A=Andover Central 58, Wellington 13Bishop Miege 37, Chanute 13Buhler 28, Wamego 14Tonganoxie 21, Lansing 7Class 3A=Andale 52, Cheney 14Holcomb 10, Scott City 7Topeka Hayden 56, Perry-Lecompton 6Wellsville 35, Prairie View 14Class 2A=Beloit 19, Garden Plain 0Council Grove 31, Humboldt 8Nemaha Central 33, Osage City 27Southeast of Saline 30, Hoisington 88 Player, DI=Central Plains 38, Little River 32Clifton-Clyde 46, Madison 0Hoxie 40, Wichita County 30South Central 60, Hill City 128 Player, DII=Axtell 54, Osborne 8Dighton 44, Hodgeman County 22Frankfort 46, Burlington 38Victoria 70, Hutchinson Central Christian 286 Player=Cunningham 52, Otis-Bison 6Golden Plains 45, South Barber 38Tescott 26, Peabody-Burns 13Weskan 57, Ingalls 12

Kansas high school football scoreboard

The Kansas State Wildcat football team will host Arizona State on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The theme for the game is Fort Riley Day.&nbsp;

The First Infantry Division and Fort Riley will provide a flyover when the K-State football team arrives at Bill Snyder Family Stadium at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;

Before the game, Fort Riley and The First Infantry Division will showcase some Military equipment and have service members participating in pregame events.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731690534320.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy of KSU Sports Facebook Page)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy of KSU Sports Facebook Page)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Kansas State Wildcat football team will host Arizona State on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The theme for the game is Fort Riley Day.&nbsp;The First Infantry Division and Fort Riley will provide a flyover when the K-State football team arrives at Bill Snyder Family Stadium at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731690972064.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Before the game, Fort Riley and The First Infantry Division will showcase some Military equipment and have service members participating in pregame events.&nbsp;

Fort Riley to provide Flyover as KSU Football team arrives on Saturday 

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cam Carter scored 20 points against his former team, freshman Vyctorius Miller added 15 points and LSU beat Kansas State 76-65 on Thursday night.

Carter, who spent his sophomore and junior seasons with Kansas State, was 6 of 11 from the field, including three made 3-pointers. He has scored 62 points and made 11 of 19 3-pointers in his first three games with LSU after averaging 14.6 points last season with the Wildcats.

Dug McDaniel drove the baseline for an open layup and made a steal at the other end, leading to his fast-break layup to cut Kansas State’s deficit to 56-46 with 9:14 remaining. After a timeout, Carter sank a 3-pointer from the top of the arc.

Miller missed a wide open 3-pointer early in the shot clock in the closing minutes but got his own rebound before making a 3 from the corner to extend the lead to 72-57 with 2:33 left.

It was just Kansas State’s fifth loss at home in 36 games under coach Jerome Tang.

Jordan Sears had 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and Daimion Collins added 12 points for LSU (3-0). Corey Chest, who entered with just three minutes played this season, grabbed 13 rebounds in 21 minutes.

David N’Guessan and McDaniel each scored 16 for Kansas State (2-1).

It was the third consecutive year the teams have played each other. LSU and K-State first met in the finals of the Cayman Islands Classic, with Kansas State winning 61-59 when a late LSU bucket was disallowed. Then last year the Wildcats won 75-60 in the Maravich Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731637852156.png" alt="KState" />
 <figcaption>KState</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cam Carter scored 20 points against his former team, freshman Vyctorius Miller added 15 points and LSU beat Kansas State 76-65 on Thursday night.Carter, who spent his sophomore and junior seasons with Kansas State, was 6 of 11 from the field, including three made 3-pointers. He has scored 62 points and made 11 of 19 3-pointers in his first three games with LSU after averaging 14.6 points last season with the Wildcats.Dug McDaniel drove the baseline for an open layup and made a steal at the other end, leading to his fast-break layup to cut Kansas State’s deficit to 56-46 with 9:14 remaining. After a timeout, Carter sank a 3-pointer from the top of the arc.Miller missed a wide open 3-pointer early in the shot clock in the closing minutes but got his own rebound before making a 3 from the corner to extend the lead to 72-57 with 2:33 left.It was just Kansas State’s fifth loss at home in 36 games under coach Jerome Tang.Jordan Sears had 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and Daimion Collins added 12 points for LSU (3-0). Corey Chest, who entered with just three minutes played this season, grabbed 13 rebounds in 21 minutes.David N’Guessan and McDaniel each scored 16 for Kansas State (2-1).It was the third consecutive year the teams have played each other. LSU and K-State first met in the finals of the Cayman Islands Classic, with Kansas State winning 61-59 when a late LSU bucket was disallowed. Then last year the Wildcats won 75-60 in the Maravich Center.

🏀 LSU beats K-State behind former Wildcat Cam Carter's 20 points 

Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Conor Riley&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex prior to Kansas State’s game on Saturday against Arizona State.&nbsp;

CONOR RILEY, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On if opposing defenses are playing K-State differently the last few games…

“No, not terribly different. You look at the latter part of the Kansas game, and I think there’s a little bit more pressure than maybe what they typically had done. You look at the latter part of the Houston game, and maybe a little bit more where they’re loading the box. How much was it? What the weather was like. Some of our challenges that we had getting the ball to the perimeter in that particular game, those are all some of the things you analyze.”

On if they need to be better against particular loaded boxes and pressure…

“I do know one thing – we need to stay on blocks much better. When you look at that – and credit our last opponent, and quite honestly, our last two opponents – I think that they were both very good up front. We knew going into it they were going to be very good up front. We need to do a better job at executing, and we need to do a better job of being more physical at the point of contact. It’s kind of one of those things where we’re getting a double hat on a guy, and we just didn’t get that much movement. That’s something that certainly we’ve emphasized and we’ve worked, and we need to be much better at.”

On Arizona State’s safeties and nickel do well…

“Well, when you look at their nickel and their safety, who I believe are their top two leading tacklers, both of them are aggressive. Both of them are very physical. They’re very active. I think they’re extremely well coached. I’ve coached against this defensive coordinator. He was at University of Nevada in 2021. Prior to that, he was at Western Illinois when I coached at North Dakota State. I just think he does a phenomenal job. I know the linebackers coach personally, and he’s a great coach as well. So, I think they’re very well coached, and I think they play very fast and play very aggressive.”

On if the offensive linemen took the last game hard…

“I think they’ve responded very well. I’ve been very pleased with how they’ve responded. They should – and all of us – look at how that game unfolded throughout it, and when we are called upon as an offensive line to run the football, we weren’t nearly as efficient as we needed to be at that very particular time.”

On if there were any younger players that stood out…

“Especially coming out of a bye week, you’re starting to see guys who are developing more and more this past week and for the past few weeks. I can speak to myself, I’ll start there – Gus Hawkins is doing a really, really good job. Navarro Schunke, both guys who have taken some of those reps during our developmental stuff last week, where I really thought those guys did some fantastic things. Tre Spivey is going to have more of an opportunity. I just continue to see him play with more and more confidence, and his knowledge of the offense is continuing to get better. I’m very, very pleased with him. I think Joe Jackson, his role is continuing to improve as well.”

On Avery Johnson’s various rush attempts per game…

“A little bit of it is what is the defense giving us when you start getting into some of the read game? I thought that they had a pretty good plan last week as opposed to two weeks ago. So, some of it is dictated on that. We every single week have a dedicated, what you’d call, dedicated quarterback run. Absolutely you do, and I still contend you need to be very measured when you’re using those tools. Then you have a little bit more of the read game. On some of the read game, you can see where he’s very effective, and you can see where some teams have done a good job of taking some of that away.”

JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On playing against Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo…

“He’s a phenomenal player. He’s really good. There’s a lot of really good backs in this league, and it’s hard to compare and contrast them, but he’s right up there with any of them. Unbelievable contact balance, competitor. I’m not a big stats guy, but I bet he breaks as many tackles as anybody in the league or in the country for that matter. He’s a good football player.”

On what stands out the running game of Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt..

“The first thing that I thought when I saw him was how decisive he is. I don’t think he hesitates when he either sees what he likes or doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull it down and scramble if he doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull the trigger on something that’s open. He’s decisive when he’s pulling the ball in their read game. He’s decisive in their RPO game. They got with a really good combination of guys over there.”

On Arizona State defeating UCF without running back Cam Skattebo..

“Well, schematically they’re very sound. So that didn’t surprise me that they were able to move the ball and do some things. They’ve got a tremendous receiver core, too. When you put all of those things in conjunction, the weapons they have, I feel like they have good receiving tight ends as well. They got a lot of weapons. They’re not a one-dimensional team. Skattebo is just so good that people think that he’s the reason – and he is a big part of the reason – but they have other ways that they can get you.”

On if any up-and-coming defenders excited him over the bye week…

“There were several, but the two that just jump into my mind right away are Jordan Allen and Ryan Davis. We did a little bit more work with guys that – I wouldn’t quite call them developmental guys, although they probably fit that category – guys that have played some but haven’t been in the mix a ton. That was kind of the emphasis of our practices this past week, and those two guys were above dominant. There were other people I could name, but those two guys stood out to me as guys that were outstanding.”

On the importance of the front seven making an impact against Arizona State’s running game…

“We’re going to have to control the line of scrimmage and change the line of scrimmage. We’re not going to be successful tackling this guy if he’s able to run downhill or at 45-degree angles. So, our ability to get knock back, our ability to move, our ability to change direction, those are going to be paramount, as they are in any week in any run defense. Philosophically, that’s not us. We’re not a catch you and read you. We’re going to try to be disruptive every chance we can, and hopefully we can do that and keep him embodied up and stop his feet in the backfield.”

Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Conor Riley&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex prior to Kansas State’s game on Saturday against Arizona State.&nbsp;CONOR RILEY, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOROn if opposing defenses are playing K-State differently the last few games…“No, not terribly different. You look at the latter part of the Kansas game, and I think there’s a little bit more pressure than maybe what they typically had done. You look at the latter part of the Houston game, and maybe a little bit more where they’re loading the box. How much was it? What the weather was like. Some of our challenges that we had getting the ball to the perimeter in that particular game, those are all some of the things you analyze.”On if they need to be better against particular loaded boxes and pressure…“I do know one thing – we need to stay on blocks much better. When you look at that – and credit our last opponent, and quite honestly, our last two opponents – I think that they were both very good up front. We knew going into it they were going to be very good up front. We need to do a better job at executing, and we need to do a better job of being more physical at the point of contact. It’s kind of one of those things where we’re getting a double hat on a guy, and we just didn’t get that much movement. That’s something that certainly we’ve emphasized and we’ve worked, and we need to be much better at.”On Arizona State’s safeties and nickel do well…“Well, when you look at their nickel and their safety, who I believe are their top two leading tacklers, both of them are aggressive. Both of them are very physical. They’re very active. I think they’re extremely well coached. I’ve coached against this defensive coordinator. He was at University of Nevada in 2021. Prior to that, he was at Western Illinois when I coached at North Dakota State. I just think he does a phenomenal job. I know the linebackers coach personally, and he’s a great coach as well. So, I think they’re very well coached, and I think they play very fast and play very aggressive.”On if the offensive linemen took the last game hard…“I think they’ve responded very well. I’ve been very pleased with how they’ve responded. They should – and all of us – look at how that game unfolded throughout it, and when we are called upon as an offensive line to run the football, we weren’t nearly as efficient as we needed to be at that very particular time.”On if there were any younger players that stood out…“Especially coming out of a bye week, you’re starting to see guys who are developing more and more this past week and for the past few weeks. I can speak to myself, I’ll start there – Gus Hawkins is doing a really, really good job. Navarro Schunke, both guys who have taken some of those reps during our developmental stuff last week, where I really thought those guys did some fantastic things. Tre Spivey is going to have more of an opportunity. I just continue to see him play with more and more confidence, and his knowledge of the offense is continuing to get better. I’m very, very pleased with him. I think Joe Jackson, his role is continuing to improve as well.”On Avery Johnson’s various rush attempts per game…“A little bit of it is what is the defense giving us when you start getting into some of the read game? I thought that they had a pretty good plan last week as opposed to two weeks ago. So, some of it is dictated on that. We every single week have a dedicated, what you’d call, dedicated quarterback run. Absolutely you do, and I still contend you need to be very measured when you’re using those tools. Then you have a little bit more of the read game. On some of the read game, you can see where he’s very effective, and you can see where some teams have done a good job of taking some of that away.”JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOROn playing against Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo…“He’s a phenomenal player. He’s really good. There’s a lot of really good backs in this league, and it’s hard to compare and contrast them, but he’s right up there with any of them. Unbelievable contact balance, competitor. I’m not a big stats guy, but I bet he breaks as many tackles as anybody in the league or in the country for that matter. He’s a good football player.”On what stands out the running game of Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt..“The first thing that I thought when I saw him was how decisive he is. I don’t think he hesitates when he either sees what he likes or doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull it down and scramble if he doesn’t see what he likes. He’s quick to pull the trigger on something that’s open. He’s decisive when he’s pulling the ball in their read game. He’s decisive in their RPO game. They got with a really good combination of guys over there.”On Arizona State defeating UCF without running back Cam Skattebo..“Well, schematically they’re very sound. So that didn’t surprise me that they were able to move the ball and do some things. They’ve got a tremendous receiver core, too. When you put all of those things in conjunction, the weapons they have, I feel like they have good receiving tight ends as well. They got a lot of weapons. They’re not a one-dimensional team. Skattebo is just so good that people think that he’s the reason – and he is a big part of the reason – but they have other ways that they can get you.”On if any up-and-coming defenders excited him over the bye week…“There were several, but the two that just jump into my mind right away are Jordan Allen and Ryan Davis. We did a little bit more work with guys that – I wouldn’t quite call them developmental guys, although they probably fit that category – guys that have played some but haven’t been in the mix a ton. That was kind of the emphasis of our practices this past week, and those two guys were above dominant. There were other people I could name, but those two guys stood out to me as guys that were outstanding.”On the importance of the front seven making an impact against Arizona State’s running game…“We’re going to have to control the line of scrimmage and change the line of scrimmage. We’re not going to be successful tackling this guy if he’s able to run downhill or at 45-degree angles. So, our ability to get knock back, our ability to move, our ability to change direction, those are going to be paramount, as they are in any week in any run defense. Philosophically, that’s not us. We’re not a catch you and read you. We’re going to try to be disruptive every chance we can, and hopefully we can do that and keep him embodied up and stop his feet in the backfield.”

K-State Coordinators Discuss Arizona State Game

Manhattan, KS – In a moment of triumph for the Wildcat community, a one-of-a-kind banner that once graced the storied walls of Ahearn Fieldhouse has returned home after over five decades. Thanks to the dedication and passion of Bobby Sloan, SVP and Director of Marketing at Outdoor Bank, the banner was recently recovered following weeks of extensive research, negotiations, and careful handling. This unique, hand-painted piece prominently features Willie the Wildcat and bears witness to countless moments of school pride, sports triumphs, and even history itself.

The banner holds a special place in the hearts of Wildcats, having been present during some of the most memorable events in Ahearn Fieldhouse's history. Among these, the banner stood as a silent witness to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final collegiate address before his tragic assassination in 1968—a moment that resonates deeply with both the Manhattan community and the broader national conversation.

 “Bringing this banner back to Manhattan is about more than just preserving a piece of history,” Sloan explained. “It’s about reuniting generations of Wildcats and celebrating the legacy that has defined Kansas State University for so many. This banner embodies the spirit of resilience, pride, and community that defines the Wildcat family.” 

Sloan, known for his role in leading Outdoor Bank’s commitment to community and connection, felt compelled to take on the search after hearing of the banner’s storied past. Fueled by his love for history and his determination to bring this relic home, Sloan embarked on a journey that spanned weeks, culminating in the banner’s return to Manhattan. The rediscovered piece represents more than memorabilia; it is a symbol of pride for alumni, students, and community members alike. 

The reappearance of the banner has ignited excitement and nostalgia among Wildcats, who now have a tangible connection to the cherished moments of Ahearn Fieldhouse’s past. “This is more than just a banner—it’s a thread that connects us to the stories of those who came before, and it inspires us to continue building a legacy worth honoring,” Sloan shared. “It’s a reminder of how our past continues to shape our future.” 

The banner was unveiled during half-time of the K-State vs LSU men’s basketball game.

Manhattan, KS – In a moment of triumph for the Wildcat community, a one-of-a-kind banner that once graced the storied walls of Ahearn Fieldhouse has returned home after over five decades. Thanks to the dedication and passion of Bobby Sloan, SVP and Director of Marketing at Outdoor Bank, the banner was recently recovered following weeks of extensive research, negotiations, and careful handling. This unique, hand-painted piece prominently features Willie the Wildcat and bears witness to countless moments of school pride, sports triumphs, and even history itself.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">He’s home. <a href="https://t.co/z05qbw8h39">pic.twitter.com/z05qbw8h39</a>&mdash; K-State Athletics (@kstatesports) <a href="https://twitter.com/kstatesports/status/1857259861433880691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The banner holds a special place in the hearts of Wildcats, having been present during some of the most memorable events in Ahearn Fieldhouse's history. Among these, the banner stood as a silent witness to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final collegiate address before his tragic assassination in 1968—a moment that resonates deeply with both the Manhattan community and the broader national conversation. “Bringing this banner back to Manhattan is about more than just preserving a piece of history,” Sloan explained. “It’s about reuniting generations of Wildcats and celebrating the legacy that has defined Kansas State University for so many. This banner embodies the spirit of resilience, pride, and community that defines the Wildcat family.” Sloan, known for his role in leading Outdoor Bank’s commitment to community and connection, felt compelled to take on the search after hearing of the banner’s storied past. Fueled by his love for history and his determination to bring this relic home, Sloan embarked on a journey that spanned weeks, culminating in the banner’s return to Manhattan. The rediscovered piece represents more than memorabilia; it is a symbol of pride for alumni, students, and community members alike. The reappearance of the banner has ignited excitement and nostalgia among Wildcats, who now have a tangible connection to the cherished moments of Ahearn Fieldhouse’s past. “This is more than just a banner—it’s a thread that connects us to the stories of those who came before, and it inspires us to continue building a legacy worth honoring,” Sloan shared. “It’s a reminder of how our past continues to shape our future.” The banner was unveiled during half-time of the K-State vs LSU men’s basketball game.

Lost banner from Ahearn Fieldhouse returned to Manhattan

Four Junction City High School volleyball players were recognized by the Centennial League for their play during the 2024 season.&nbsp;

Ameera Ashraf, Rilynn Hotard, Brianna Jackson, and Izzy Jimenez received Honorable Mention for Centennial League Honors.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731598393713.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right, Ameera Ashraf, Rilynn Hotard, Brianna Jackson, and Izzy Jimenez. (Photo courtesy of Blue Jay Athletics Facebook Page)" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right, Ameera Ashraf, Rilynn Hotard, Brianna Jackson, and Izzy Jimenez. (Photo courtesy of Blue Jay Athletics Facebook Page)</figcaption>
 </figure>Four Junction City High School volleyball players were recognized by the Centennial League for their play during the 2024 season.&nbsp;Ameera Ashraf, Rilynn Hotard, Brianna Jackson, and Izzy Jimenez received Honorable Mention for Centennial League Honors.&nbsp;

Four Lady Jay Volleyball players receive League Honors

ATLANTA (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 28 points and Bill Self became the winningest coach in Kansas history as the No. 1 Jayhawks pulled away from Michigan State for a 77-69 victory in the Champions Classic on Tuesday night.

Spartans forward Jaxon Kohler hit a 3-pointer to tie the game at 52 with just under nine minutes remaining. KJ Adams Jr. hit a pair of free throws to put Kansas (3-0) ahead to stay.

Self improved to 591-143 in his 22nd season coaching the Jayhawks, pushing him past Phog Allen's mark of 590-129 in 36 seasons on the Kansas sideline.

Frankie Fidler led Michigan State (2-1) with 15 points.

The Jayhawks posted their second straight win over one of the nation's prominent programs, following up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-kansas-tar-heels-jayhawks-score-top-25-9919dca6cfb7cfca72b0d3133ba1026a">a 92-89 win</a>&nbsp;over No. 10 North Carolina.

Kansas: After missing 15 straight shots from the field, Kansas ripped off a 14-2 run that turned an 18-16 deficit into a 30-20 lead.

Michigan State: The Spartans couldn't overcome a tough shooting night, especially from beyond the arc. They made just 3 of 24 from 3-point range.

Dajuan Harris Jr. gave the Jayhawks some breathing room when he laid one in off a fast break, drew a foul and completed the three-point play for a 68-59 lead with 4:25 to go. After tumbling to the court, Harris remained on his back for a few seconds, clapping furiously. He finished with 11 points and six assists.

The 7-foot-2 Dickinson made 13 of 21 shots from the field, including his only 3-point attempt, and grabbed 12 rebounds. He also had three steals and a block at the defensive end.

Kansas returns home Saturday to face Oakland. Michigan State hosts Bowling Green on Saturday.

ATLANTA (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 28 points and Bill Self became the winningest coach in Kansas history as the No. 1 Jayhawks pulled away from Michigan State for a 77-69 victory in the Champions Classic on Tuesday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">That 591 feeling 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/3iU7RtBZJ8">pic.twitter.com/3iU7RtBZJ8</a>&mdash; Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1856519667768000823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Spartans forward Jaxon Kohler hit a 3-pointer to tie the game at 52 with just under nine minutes remaining. KJ Adams Jr. hit a pair of free throws to put Kansas (3-0) ahead to stay.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The most history. The best tradition. The Winningest Coach. <a href="https://t.co/MHLyzgySbU">pic.twitter.com/MHLyzgySbU</a>&mdash; Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1856512354957013244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Self improved to 591-143 in his 22nd season coaching the Jayhawks, pushing him past Phog Allen's mark of 590-129 in 36 seasons on the Kansas sideline.Frankie Fidler led Michigan State (2-1) with 15 points.The Jayhawks posted their second straight win over one of the nation's prominent programs, following up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-kansas-tar-heels-jayhawks-score-top-25-9919dca6cfb7cfca72b0d3133ba1026a">a 92-89 win</a>&nbsp;over No. 10 North Carolina.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: After missing 15 straight shots from the field, Kansas ripped off a 14-2 run that turned an 18-16 deficit into a 30-20 lead.Michigan State: The Spartans couldn't overcome a tough shooting night, especially from beyond the arc. They made just 3 of 24 from 3-point range.<h2>Key moment</h2>Dajuan Harris Jr. gave the Jayhawks some breathing room when he laid one in off a fast break, drew a foul and completed the three-point play for a 68-59 lead with 4:25 to go. After tumbling to the court, Harris remained on his back for a few seconds, clapping furiously. He finished with 11 points and six assists.<h2>Key stats</h2>The 7-foot-2 Dickinson made 13 of 21 shots from the field, including his only 3-point attempt, and grabbed 12 rebounds. He also had three steals and a block at the defensive end.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas returns home Saturday to face Oakland. Michigan State hosts Bowling Green on Saturday.___

🏀 Bill Self becomes winningest coach in KU history in win over Michigan State

AKRON, Ohio (AP) — Gerry Faust, the gravel-voiced Cincinnati high school coach who lived a dream by becoming the coach at Notre Dame, has died. He was 89.

Notre Dame said in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that the family confirmed Faust’s death. No details were immediately provided.

Faust guided the Fighting Irish from 1981 through 1985, compiling a record of 30-26-1. He succeeded Dan Devine as coach of Notre Dame and preceded Lou Holtz.

“I have always loved Notre Dame and still do,” he said after he was fired following the 1985 season.

He spent the next nine seasons as the head coach at the University of Akron, bringing the program from Division II to major-college status. His record was 43-53-3 with the Zips.

He remained at Akron after his coaching days, working as a fundraiser and in the development office before retiring in 2001.

It was as a high school coach that Faust first stepped into the spotlight.

After graduating in 1958 from the University of Dayton with a degree in marketing and management, Faust accepted his first coaching position as an assistant at his high school alma mater, Dayton Chaminade. His father, Gerry Sr., had coached at Chaminade for 49 years.

Two seasons later, Faust accepted an offer to build a football program at a new high school, Archbishop Moeller, in suburban Cincinnati.

He spent three years constructing the foundation of what would become a legendary program in high school athletics.

In 1963, Moeller’s first varsity team surprised many with a 9-1 record.

In the next 17 years, Faust’s Moeller teams posted nine undefeated seasons, won 10 city championships, eight regional titles and five big-school state championships.

Four times Faust teams were awarded mythical national championships, each following unbeaten and untied seasons in 1976, ’77, ’79 and ’80.

The 1980 team completed a 13-0 season and capped Faust’s high school coaching record at a remarkable 174-17-2, a success rate of nearly 91%.

AKRON, Ohio (AP) — Gerry Faust, the gravel-voiced Cincinnati high school coach who lived a dream by becoming the coach at Notre Dame, has died. He was 89.Notre Dame said in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that the family confirmed Faust’s death. No details were immediately provided.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are deeply saddened by the loss of Gerry Faust. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Faust family and Gerry’s loved ones. → <a href="https://t.co/4emkI07LeQ">https://t.co/4emkI07LeQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/RoDIt4n1Xo">pic.twitter.com/RoDIt4n1Xo</a>&mdash; The Fighting Irish (@FightingIrish) <a href="https://twitter.com/FightingIrish/status/1856366849522307429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Faust guided the Fighting Irish from 1981 through 1985, compiling a record of 30-26-1. He succeeded Dan Devine as coach of Notre Dame and preceded Lou Holtz.“I have always loved Notre Dame and still do,” he said after he was fired following the 1985 season.He spent the next nine seasons as the head coach at the University of Akron, bringing the program from Division II to major-college status. His record was 43-53-3 with the Zips.He remained at Akron after his coaching days, working as a fundraiser and in the development office before retiring in 2001.It was as a high school coach that Faust first stepped into the spotlight.After graduating in 1958 from the University of Dayton with a degree in marketing and management, Faust accepted his first coaching position as an assistant at his high school alma mater, Dayton Chaminade. His father, Gerry Sr., had coached at Chaminade for 49 years.Two seasons later, Faust accepted an offer to build a football program at a new high school, Archbishop Moeller, in suburban Cincinnati.He spent three years constructing the foundation of what would become a legendary program in high school athletics.In 1963, Moeller’s first varsity team surprised many with a 9-1 record.In the next 17 years, Faust’s Moeller teams posted nine undefeated seasons, won 10 city championships, eight regional titles and five big-school state championships.Four times Faust teams were awarded mythical national championships, each following unbeaten and untied seasons in 1976, ’77, ’79 and ’80.The 1980 team completed a 13-0 season and capped Faust’s high school coaching record at a remarkable 174-17-2, a success rate of nearly 91%.There was a public outcry when Faust was selected to take over at Notre Dame in the spring of 1981. The school’s administrators were admonished for elevating a high school coach to the most revered position in college coaching.Faust’s first team in South Bend went 5-6 and he followed that with marks of 6-4, 7-5, 7-5 and 5-6.His first Akron team in 1986 went 7-4, but his teams — playing a difficult Division I-AA schedule and, eventually, some of the top teams in I-A — never reached that level again.<h2>___</h2>