HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kpreps.com released its updated high school football rankings ahead of Week 2, with several Reno County and area programs earning recognition after season-opening wins.

In Class 4A, Buhler climbed to No. 3 after a hard-fought 34-27 victory at Mulvane. Senior Ben Clouse broke a 70-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter to seal the Crusaders’ win. Buhler will host Augusta on Friday.

Class 3A’s top spot remains with Andale, which rolled past El Dorado, 104-0. The Indians, who blanked Nickerson 108-0 in 2022, will host Wellington in Week 2.

Also in 3A, Holcomb jumped into the rankings at No. 4 after edging Cheney, 15-13. Hesston, which opened with a victory against Halstead, was listed among teams also considered.

In Class 2A, Garden Plain checked in at No. 5 after a 34-15 win over Wichita Trinity. The Owls face a major test this week at top-ranked Conway Springs.

The Cardinals themselves sit atop the Class 1A poll following a 28-20 win over Nickerson. The Panthers, under first-year coach Parker Bruce, pushed the two-time defending champions to the wire before falling short.

Also in 1A, Sterling debuted at No. 5 after routing Sedgwick, 47-6. The Black Bears will face Moundridge (1-0) this week in a Heart of America League matchup. Inman and Moundridge were among teams also receiving consideration.

Eight-man Division I saw Little River land at No. 4 after shutting out Chase County, 50-0. The Redskins racked up 373 yards on just 36 plays. They travel to Rural Vista this week.

In Six-Man, defending state runner-up Cunningham moved to No. 2 after blasting South Barber, 66-18. Senior Skyler Thimesch rushed for 122 yards and three touchdowns for the Wildcats.

Across the state’s largest class, 6A, Manhattan retained the top ranking after defeating Garden City, while Derby slipped to No. 2 following its heartbreaking loss to Hays. Wichita Northwest sits at No. 3.

Week 2 kicks off Friday night across Kansas, with several marquee matchups including Buhler-Augusta, Conway Springs-Garden Plain, and Sterling-Moundridge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693413418452.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kpreps.com released its updated high school football rankings ahead of Week 2, with several Reno County and area programs earning recognition after season-opening wins.In Class 4A, Buhler climbed to No. 3 after a hard-fought 34-27 victory at Mulvane. Senior Ben Clouse broke a 70-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter to seal the Crusaders’ win. Buhler will host Augusta on Friday.Class 3A’s top spot remains with Andale, which rolled past El Dorado, 104-0. The Indians, who blanked Nickerson 108-0 in 2022, will host Wellington in Week 2.Also in 3A, Holcomb jumped into the rankings at No. 4 after edging Cheney, 15-13. Hesston, which opened with a victory against Halstead, was listed among teams also considered.In Class 2A, Garden Plain checked in at No. 5 after a 34-15 win over Wichita Trinity. The Owls face a major test this week at top-ranked Conway Springs.The Cardinals themselves sit atop the Class 1A poll following a 28-20 win over Nickerson. The Panthers, under first-year coach Parker Bruce, pushed the two-time defending champions to the wire before falling short.Also in 1A, Sterling debuted at No. 5 after routing Sedgwick, 47-6. The Black Bears will face Moundridge (1-0) this week in a Heart of America League matchup. Inman and Moundridge were among teams also receiving consideration.Eight-man Division I saw Little River land at No. 4 after shutting out Chase County, 50-0. The Redskins racked up 373 yards on just 36 plays. They travel to Rural Vista this week.In Six-Man, defending state runner-up Cunningham moved to No. 2 after blasting South Barber, 66-18. Senior Skyler Thimesch rushed for 122 yards and three touchdowns for the Wildcats.Across the state’s largest class, 6A, Manhattan retained the top ranking after defeating Garden City, while Derby slipped to No. 2 following its heartbreaking loss to Hays. Wichita Northwest sits at No. 3.Week 2 kicks off Friday night across Kansas, with several marquee matchups including Buhler-Augusta, Conway Springs-Garden Plain, and Sterling-Moundridge.Class 6A<ol>
 <li>Manhattan (1-0)
</li><li>Derby (0-1)
</li><li>Wichita Northwest (1-0)
</li><li>Blue Valley Northwest (1-0)
</li><li>Lawrence Free State (1-0)
Others receiving votes: Blue Valley West, Dodge City, Gardner-Edgerton, Junction City, Maize, Olathe North, Olathe West, Shawnee Mission East, Shawnee Mission Northwest, Washburn Rural, Wichita East.
</li>
 </ol>Class 5A<ol>
 <li>St. Thomas Aquinas (1-0)
</li><li>Mill Valley (1-0)
</li><li>Great Bend (1-0)
</li><li>Hays (1-0)
</li><li>St. James Academy (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Basehor-Linwood, Blue Valley, De Soto, Hutchinson, Maize South, Spring Hill, Valley Center.
</li>
 </ol>Class 4A<ol>
 <li>Kapaun Mt. Carmel (1-0)
</li><li>Bishop Miege (0-1)
</li><li>Buhler (1-0)
</li><li>Wamego (1-0)
</li><li>Ottawa (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Andover Central, Chanute, Eudora, KC Piper, Lansing, Louisburg, Mulvane, Paola, Tonganoxie, Wellington.
</li>
 </ol>Class 3A<ol>
 <li>Andale (1-0)
</li><li>Topeka Hayden (1-0)
</li><li>Wellsville (1-0)
</li><li>Holcomb (1-0)
</li><li>Rock Creek (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Cheney, Clay Center, Frontenac, Hesston, Hugoton, Prairie View, Scott City, Wichita Collegiate.
</li>
 </ol>Class 2A<ol>
 <li>Southeast of Saline (1-0)
</li><li>Nemaha Central (1-0)
</li><li>Osage City (1-0)
</li><li>Beloit (1-0)
</li><li>Garden Plain (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Caney Valley, Council Grove, Ellsworth, Hoisington, Phillipsburg, Royal Valley, Sabetha, Silver Lake, St. Marys.
</li>
 </ol>Class 1A<ol>
 <li>Conway Springs (1-0)
</li><li>Jackson Heights (1-0)
</li><li>Centralia (1-0)
</li><li>Rossville (1-0)
</li><li>Sterling (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Inman, Jefferson Co. North, Marion, Medicine Lodge, Moundridge, Olpe, Plainville, Riverside, St. Mary’s Colgan, Smith Center, Valley Heights.
</li>
 </ol>Eight-Man Division I<ol>
 <li>South Central (1-0)
</li><li>Leoti-Wichita County (0-1)
</li><li>Central Plains (1-0)
</li><li>Little River (1-0)
</li><li>Lyndon (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Atwood-Rawlins Co., Cedar Vale-Dexter, Clifton-Clyde, Ell-Saline, Hoxie, Lincoln, Madison, Oxford, Saint Francis, Sublette, Sylvan-Lucas Unified, WaKeeney-Trego.
</li>
 </ol>Eight-Man Division II<ol>
 <li>Axtell (1-0)
</li><li>Victoria (1-0)
</li><li>Hanover (1-0)
</li><li>Burlingame (1-0)
</li><li>Osborne (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Argonia-Attica, Frankfort, Hodgeman County, Hutchinson Central Christian, Marmaton Valley, Rural Vista, Waverly.
</li>
 </ol>Six-Man<ol>
 <li>Weskan (0-1)
</li><li>Cunningham (1-0)
</li><li>Golden Plains (1-0)
</li><li>Tescott (1-0)
</li><li>Otis-Bison (1-0)
 Others receiving votes: Ingalls, Marais des Cygnes Valley, Pawnee Heights, Peabody-Burns, South Barber.</li>
 </ol>

🏈 Kpreps Week 2 high school rankings

CLEVELAND (AP) — Slade Cecconi took a bid to end Cleveland's long no-hitter drought into the eighth inning, and the Guardians rolled to a 10-2 win over Kansas City on Monday night and leapfrogged the Royals in the AL wild-card race.

Cecconi (6-6) was six outs from the first no-hitter in the majors this season — and Cleveland's first since Len Barker's perfect game in 1981 — when Kansas City's Michael Massey singled leading off the eighth.

On Cecconi's 95th pitch, Massey lined a 2-1 fastball into left-center. The right-hander received a nice ovation from the crowd in Progressive Field before Cecconi got Carter Jensen to hit into a double play.

Cleveland (73-70) won its fourth straight game and moved past the Royals (73-71) into second place in the AL Central. Cleveland entered the four-game series 2 1/2 games behind Seattle for the third and final wild card spot.

Kyle Manzardo, Daniel Schneemann and Nolan Jones had two RBIs apiece for Cleveland, which set season highs with 16 hits and seven doubles.

The Guardians tagged Ryan Bergert (2-2) for four RBI doubles and six runs in the fourth inning while opening an 8-0 lead. C.J. Kayfus, Brayan Rocchio, Schneemann and Jones hit the doubles.

Royals All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was not in the starting lineup for the third straight game due to back spasms. Manager Matt Quatraro said Witt ran and did some fielding before the game without any issues and was possible to see “game action.”

Witt didn't get in but is expected to play Tuesday.

Second baseman Rocchio made two nice defensive plays to keep Cecconi's bid intact. In the second, he made a diving stop on Salvador Perez's hard shot up the middle. Two innings later, Rocchio slid in the outfield grass to corral Kyle Isbel's grounder before flipping to second for a forceout.

Since Barker’s perfecto at old Municipal Stadium, eight Cleveland pitchers have carried no-hitters into the ninth inning before their bids were ended. On Aug. 6, Gavin Williams was two outs away before allowing a homer to New York's Juan Soto.

Rookie LHP Noah Cameron (7-6, 3.03 ERA) starts for the Royals against Joey Cantillo (4-3, 3.73), who makes his second career start against Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757384001940.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Slade Cecconi took a bid to end Cleveland's long no-hitter drought into the eighth inning, and the Guardians rolled to a 10-2 win over Kansas City on Monday night and leapfrogged the Royals in the AL wild-card race.Cecconi (6-6) was six outs from the first no-hitter in the majors this season — and Cleveland's first since Len Barker's perfect game in 1981 — when Kansas City's Michael Massey singled leading off the eighth.On Cecconi's 95th pitch, Massey lined a 2-1 fastball into left-center. The right-hander received a nice ovation from the crowd in Progressive Field before Cecconi got Carter Jensen to hit into a double play.Cleveland (73-70) won its fourth straight game and moved past the Royals (73-71) into second place in the AL Central. Cleveland entered the four-game series 2 1/2 games behind Seattle for the third and final wild card spot.Kyle Manzardo, Daniel Schneemann and Nolan Jones had two RBIs apiece for Cleveland, which set season highs with 16 hits and seven doubles.The Guardians tagged Ryan Bergert (2-2) for four RBI doubles and six runs in the fourth inning while opening an 8-0 lead. C.J. Kayfus, Brayan Rocchio, Schneemann and Jones hit the doubles.Royals All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was not in the starting lineup for the third straight game due to back spasms. Manager Matt Quatraro said Witt ran and did some fielding before the game without any issues and was possible to see “game action.”Witt didn't get in but is expected to play Tuesday.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Second baseman Rocchio made two nice defensive plays to keep Cecconi's bid intact. In the second, he made a diving stop on Salvador Perez's hard shot up the middle. Two innings later, Rocchio slid in the outfield grass to corral Kyle Isbel's grounder before flipping to second for a forceout.<h2>Key Stat</h2>Since Barker’s perfecto at old Municipal Stadium, eight Cleveland pitchers have carried no-hitters into the ninth inning before their bids were ended. On Aug. 6, Gavin Williams was two outs away before allowing a homer to New York's Juan Soto.<h2>Up Next</h2>Rookie LHP Noah Cameron (7-6, 3.03 ERA) starts for the Royals against Joey Cantillo (4-3, 3.73), who makes his second career start against Kansas City.

⚾ Slade Cecconi loses no-hit bid in 8th, Guards rout Royals 

The Blue Dragon Athletic Department has announced its home football game themes for the 2025 season.

Four home games will be played at Gowans Stadium this season, including the home opener this Saturday, Sept. 13.

Noon Saturday, Sept. 13 vs. Iowa Western – Blue Dragon Champions Day

1pm Saturday, Oct. 18 vs. Indy – Homecoming

7pm Saturday, Oct. 25 vs. Coffeyville – Football and a Movie at Gowans

Noon Saturday, Nov. 22 vs. Garden City – Military &amp; First Responders Appreciation

The Blue Dragons are coming off their second national championship in football after defeating Iowa Western in the NJCAA Division I Football Championship in December 2024 at West Texas A&amp;M University's Buffalo Stadium in Canyon, Texas.

The two teams will once again face off in Hutchinson's home opener at noon Saturday, September 13 at Gowans Stadium. Blue Dragon Athletics will recognize the Spring 2025 semester team champions and more for Blue Dragon Champions Day.Homecoming week will headline the second home game as the homecoming game will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 18 against the Independence Pirates. It will also be Blue Dragon Football Recognition for football alumni.

The third home game of the season will be the second game of back-to-backs in the Blue Dragons' home stretch as Hutchinson hosts Coffeyville in a primetime 7 p.m. kickoff on Saturday, October 25. The theme for the night game is "Football and a Movie at Gowans." Stick around after the game for a late-night movie on the DragonVision Videoboard.

Wrapping out the 2025 regular season home slate is Military and First Responders Appreciation. Military and first responders will receive free admission into the regular season home finale against Garden City at noon, Saturday, Nov. 22.

For the full football schedule along with all fall sports schedules, visit bluedragonsports.com or visit the Blue Dragon Athletic Office for schedule cards. You can also purchase your all-sports passes at the Blue Dragon Athletic Office during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729854373924.jpeg" alt="The No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons take on the No. 13 Butler Grizzlies at Noon Saturday, October 26 at Gowans Stadium. (Paityn Kaminkow/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons take on the No. 13 Butler Grizzlies at Noon Saturday, October 26 at Gowans Stadium. (Paityn Kaminkow/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe Blue Dragon Athletic Department has announced its home football game themes for the 2025 season.Four home games will be played at Gowans Stadium this season, including the home opener this Saturday, Sept. 13.<h2>Noon Saturday, Sept. 13 vs. Iowa Western – Blue Dragon Champions Day</h2><ul>
 <li>Recognition of Blue Dragon spring sports and their accomplishments including softball winning back-to-back KJCCC regular season titles, men's and women's track and field hosting the national meet and several team and individual honors and more.</li>
 </ul><h2>1pm Saturday, Oct. 18 vs. Indy – Homecoming</h2><ul>
 <li>Blue Dragon Football Alumni Recognition and Homecoming week for Hutchinson Community College.</li>
 </ul><h2>7pm Saturday, Oct. 25 vs. Coffeyville – Football and a Movie at Gowans</h2><ul>
 <li>Join Blue Dragon football for a night football game followed by a movie to cap off the night on the videoboard.</li>
 </ul><h2>Noon Saturday, Nov. 22 vs. Garden City – Military &amp; First Responders Appreciation</h2><ul>
 <li>Blue Dragon football recognizes military and first responders for their work and sacrifice.</li>
 </ul>The Blue Dragons are coming off their second national championship in football after defeating Iowa Western in the NJCAA Division I Football Championship in December 2024 at West Texas A&amp;M University's Buffalo Stadium in Canyon, Texas.The two teams will once again face off in Hutchinson's home opener at noon Saturday, September 13 at Gowans Stadium. Blue Dragon Athletics will recognize the Spring 2025 semester team champions and more for Blue Dragon Champions Day.Homecoming week will headline the second home game as the homecoming game will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 18 against the Independence Pirates. It will also be Blue Dragon Football Recognition for football alumni.The third home game of the season will be the second game of back-to-backs in the Blue Dragons' home stretch as Hutchinson hosts Coffeyville in a primetime 7 p.m. kickoff on Saturday, October 25. The theme for the night game is "Football and a Movie at Gowans." Stick around after the game for a late-night movie on the DragonVision Videoboard.Wrapping out the 2025 regular season home slate is Military and First Responders Appreciation. Military and first responders will receive free admission into the regular season home finale against Garden City at noon, Saturday, Nov. 22.For the full football schedule along with all fall sports schedules, visit bluedragonsports.com or visit the Blue Dragon Athletic Office for schedule cards. You can also purchase your all-sports passes at the Blue Dragon Athletic Office during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

🏈 Blue Dragon home game themes announced

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs could be without Xavier Worthy and rookie Jalen Royals because of injuries in a depleted wide receiver group when they face the Philadelphia Eagles in a Super Bowl rematch on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium.

Worthy hurt his shoulder in the opening minutes of the Chiefs' season-opening loss to the Chargers in Brazil, when he collided with tight end Travis Kelce on a crossing route. Chiefs coach Andy Reid did not provide much of an update on Monday, when he spoke briefly with local reporters, saying only that the team was taking it “day by day.”

“He's rehabbing and working his shoulder,” Reid said, “and we'll just see where it goes. See where we end up.”

Royals, a fourth-round pick, did not practice last week and missed Friday night's game while dealing with a knee injury.

“Jalen is doing a good job with his rehab. We'll just see how that ends up this week,” Reid said. “We've got a couple of days here that we've had. Guys are making good progress. But we'll see where it rolls. If neither (Worthy nor Royals) play, we've got guys that we played with the other night that are good football players.”

Still, the loss of Royals and Worthy would leave Kansas City without three of its primary wide receivers against Philadelphia. Rashee Rice already was serving the second game in his six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. It is part of his punishment following a March 2024 car crash on a Dallas highway that injured several people.

The Chiefs were hoping that the speedy Worthy would help them deal with Rice's absence early in the season, especially after a breakout rookie season in which he led their wide receivers with 59 catches for 638 yards and six touchdowns.

Instead, Worthy was the victim in a friendly fire incident reminiscent of last season, when Rice tore ligaments in his knee when Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes collided with him while trying to make a tackle following an interception.

“It was just one of those deals. Sometimes that happens,” Reid said. “You hope it doesn't very often, for sure.”

Marquise Brown, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury, led the Chiefs against Los Angeles with 10 grabs for 99 yards. JuJu Smith-Schuster had five catches for 55 yards and Tyquan Thornton had two for 41 yards.

“Tyquan and Hollywood and JuJu did a great job of filling some of those roles,” Mahomes said after the 27-21 defeat. “That’s someone (in Worthy) that was a huge part of our game plan, and someone that we’re counting on to go out there and make plays against some of the man coverage that they played. I thought guys did a good job kind of stepping up in those roles.”

In other news, Reid tried to sidestep questions about the open-handed slap that Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart delivered to Kelce in the third quarter. Tart was given a personal foul penalty but, because it was an open-handed punch rather than one that was delivered with a closed fist, the officiating crew allowed him to remain in the game.

“I don't understand that rule. I didn't — you know, I guess it's open-hand, fist, whatever. I don't know all that, what their decision was on that,” Reid said. “He definitely got hit in the head pretty hard, whether it was an open fist or a closed fist.

“I'm not sure how you determine that,” Reid added, “which hurts more.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757369105612.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid watches during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Sao Paulo. (AP Photo/Doug Benc)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid watches during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Sao Paulo. (AP Photo/Doug Benc)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs could be without Xavier Worthy and rookie Jalen Royals because of injuries in a depleted wide receiver group when they face the Philadelphia Eagles in a Super Bowl rematch on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium.Worthy hurt his shoulder in the opening minutes of the Chiefs' season-opening loss to the Chargers in Brazil, when he collided with tight end Travis Kelce on a crossing route. Chiefs coach Andy Reid did not provide much of an update on Monday, when he spoke briefly with local reporters, saying only that the team was taking it “day by day.”“He's rehabbing and working his shoulder,” Reid said, “and we'll just see where it goes. See where we end up.”Royals, a fourth-round pick, did not practice last week and missed Friday night's game while dealing with a knee injury.“Jalen is doing a good job with his rehab. We'll just see how that ends up this week,” Reid said. “We've got a couple of days here that we've had. Guys are making good progress. But we'll see where it rolls. If neither (Worthy nor Royals) play, we've got guys that we played with the other night that are good football players.”Still, the loss of Royals and Worthy would leave Kansas City without three of its primary wide receivers against Philadelphia. Rashee Rice already was serving the second game in his six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. It is part of his punishment following a March 2024 car crash on a Dallas highway that injured several people.The Chiefs were hoping that the speedy Worthy would help them deal with Rice's absence early in the season, especially after a breakout rookie season in which he led their wide receivers with 59 catches for 638 yards and six touchdowns.Instead, Worthy was the victim in a friendly fire incident reminiscent of last season, when Rice tore ligaments in his knee when Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes collided with him while trying to make a tackle following an interception.“It was just one of those deals. Sometimes that happens,” Reid said. “You hope it doesn't very often, for sure.”Marquise Brown, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury, led the Chiefs against Los Angeles with 10 grabs for 99 yards. JuJu Smith-Schuster had five catches for 55 yards and Tyquan Thornton had two for 41 yards.“Tyquan and Hollywood and JuJu did a great job of filling some of those roles,” Mahomes said after the 27-21 defeat. “That’s someone (in Worthy) that was a huge part of our game plan, and someone that we’re counting on to go out there and make plays against some of the man coverage that they played. I thought guys did a good job kind of stepping up in those roles.”In other news, Reid tried to sidestep questions about the open-handed slap that Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart delivered to Kelce in the third quarter. Tart was given a personal foul penalty but, because it was an open-handed punch rather than one that was delivered with a closed fist, the officiating crew allowed him to remain in the game.“I don't understand that rule. I didn't — you know, I guess it's open-hand, fist, whatever. I don't know all that, what their decision was on that,” Reid said. “He definitely got hit in the head pretty hard, whether it was an open fist or a closed fist.“I'm not sure how you determine that,” Reid added, “which hurts more.”

🏈Chiefs may be without WRs Xavier Worthy, Jalen Royals against Eagles in Super Bowl rematch

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHMY2">HERE</a>&nbsp;to listen to KHMY-FM (93.1)

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">HERE</a>&nbsp;to listen to KHUT-FM (102.9)

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">HERE</a>&nbsp;to listen to KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5)

Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas, 4:30-5 p.m. (KWBW) Royals at Guardians, 5 p.m. pregame, 5:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Royals at Guardians, 5 p.m. pregame, 5:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Royals at Guardians, 5 p.m. pregame, 5:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW) Chris Klieman Show, 7-8 p.m. (KHMY)

Royals at Guardians, 5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:15 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

K-State football at Arizona, 6 p.m. pregame, 8 p.m. kickoff (KHMY) Kansas Kickoff Show, 6-6:30 p.m. (KWBW) Hutch High football at Valley Center, 6:30 p.m. pregame, 7 p.m. kickoff (KWBW)

HutchCC football vs. Iowa Western, 11:30 a.m. pregame, noon kickoff (KHUT) Royals at Phillies, 4:30 p.m. pregame, 5:05 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2 p.m. pregame, 3:25 p.m. kickoff (KWBW)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754488936409.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHMY2">HERE</a>&nbsp;to listen to KHMY-FM (93.1)Click&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">HERE</a>&nbsp;to listen to KHUT-FM (102.9)Click&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">HERE</a>&nbsp;to listen to KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5)<h2>Monday, Sept. 8</h2>Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas, 4:30-5 p.m. (KWBW) Royals at Guardians, 5 p.m. pregame, 5:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Tuesday, Sept. 9</h2>Royals at Guardians, 5 p.m. pregame, 5:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Wednesday, Sept. 10</h2>Royals at Guardians, 5 p.m. pregame, 5:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW) Chris Klieman Show, 7-8 p.m. (KHMY) <h2>Thursday, Sept. 11</h2>Royals at Guardians, 5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:15 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Friday, Sept. 12</h2>K-State football at Arizona, 6 p.m. pregame, 8 p.m. kickoff (KHMY) Kansas Kickoff Show, 6-6:30 p.m. (KWBW) Hutch High football at Valley Center, 6:30 p.m. pregame, 7 p.m. kickoff (KWBW)<h2>Saturday, Sept. 13</h2>HutchCC football vs. Iowa Western, 11:30 a.m. pregame, noon kickoff (KHUT) Royals at Phillies, 4:30 p.m. pregame, 5:05 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Sunday, Sept. 14</h2>Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2 p.m. pregame, 3:25 p.m. kickoff (KWBW)

Eagle Media sports broadcast schedule for Sept. 8-15

🎧⚾ Royals drop finale; ⚾ Wind Surge walk-off Drillers; 🏈 HutchCC, Hutch High win; Chiefs, KU, K-State lose

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757296768286.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>WICHITA, Kan. (September 7, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ben-ross-805346">Ben Ross</a>&nbsp;hit a walk-off home run in a 12-11 win for the Wichita Wind Surge over the Tulsa Drillers at Equity Bank Park. The Wind Surge are now two games back of the Drillers for the playoff spot.
After Kole Myers reached on an infield error, Chris Newell doubled to the right-center gap to drive him in and give Tulsa a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. James Tibbs III lined a two-run home run over the top of the right field wall two frames later to triple the early advantage for the Drillers.
Wichita put up four runs in the home half of the third on an RBI single to right by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/hendry-mendez-694230">Hendry Mendez</a>&nbsp;and a three-run blast to the left field berm by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/andrew-cossetti-681355">Andrew Cossetti</a>&nbsp;that gave the Wind Surge a 4-3 lead.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1964769827043889500&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-walk-off-drillers&amp;sessionId=477dae8f356144e138df94fce55acab7f80fa0c9&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1964769827043889500"></iframe></div>
Mendez yanked an RBI triple toward the right field corner in the bottom of the fifth, and the designated hitter got awarded home plate on a balk later in the inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/maddux-houghton-806368">Maddux Houghton</a>&nbsp;grounded a base hit up the middle for the third run of the frame and a 7-3 Wichita score.
Tulsa scored twice before the seventh inning stretch on a disengagement violation and a wild pitch. A two-run blast into the Drillers&rsquo; bullpen from Cossetti, an RBI double by Houghton, and a run-scoring single by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jose-salas-691191">Jose Salas</a>&nbsp;made it 11-5 Wind Surge after seven.
Six unanswered runs followed for Tulsa over the eighth and ninth, with two-run hits by Myers and Tibbs III in the eighth. The latter was a triple to the wall in right-center. Taylor Young tied the game 11-11 by scampering in on a wild pitch in the ninth.
On the first pitch of the bottom of the ninth inning, Ross launched a walk-off solo home run to left field for a 12-11 Wichita final. The victory brought the Propeller back to the ICT for the first time since 2021.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1964802368379531723&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-walk-off-drillers&amp;sessionId=477dae8f356144e138df94fce55acab7f80fa0c9&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1964802368379531723"></iframe></div>
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jaylen-nowlin-701549">Jaylen Nowlin</a>&nbsp;improved to 5-0 with the win after giving up an earned run on a hit and two walks over one and one-third innings.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>The Wind Surge are two games behind the Drillers for the second-half playoff spot with six regular games remaining.</li>
<li>Wichita wins the Propeller Series for the second time and first since 2021.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge record their third walk-off win of the season and second of the homestand.</li>
<li>Wichita finishes the 2025 regular season with a franchise-best 44-25 home record.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge play their final regular season series on the road in Corpus Christi, beginning on Tuesday.</li>
</ul>
Wichita heads on the road for their final regular season series against the Corpus Christi Hooks on September 9 at 6:35 PM. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge walk-off Drillers for Propeller Series win

ROSWELL, NM — The No. 1 Hutchinson Community College football team opened the 2025 season with a 76-8 win at New Mexico Military Institute on Saturday afternoon.

Below is the full audio broadcast from the game on KHUT-FM with Sean Boston and Daren Dunn.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757293889227.jpeg" alt="Jeffrey Manns (97) runs deep into NMMI territory after an interception in the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons' 76-8 season-opening win over New Mexico Military on Saturday in Roswell, NM (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Manns (97) runs deep into NMMI territory after an interception in the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons' 76-8 season-opening win over New Mexico Military on Saturday in Roswell, NM (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>ROSWELL, NM — The No. 1 Hutchinson Community College football team opened the 2025 season with a 76-8 win at New Mexico Military Institute on Saturday afternoon.Below is the full audio broadcast from the game on KHUT-FM with Sean Boston and Daren Dunn.<div><iframe title="Blue Dragon Rewind: No. 1 HutchCC at NMMI (Sept. 6, 2025)" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3vr52-195a51c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎧🏈 Blue Dragon Rewind: No. 1 HutchCC at New Mexico Military

(AP) —&nbsp;Ohio State, Penn State and LSU remained the top three teams in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll">The Associated Press Top 25</a>&nbsp;college football poll Sunday, Oregon is back in the top five and South Florida is ranked for the first time in seven years.

There was some movement inside the top 10, but the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/top-25-college-football-poll-9-7-2025?#00000199-2502-dba2-a5f9-e76a09490000">biggest changes came from Nos. 11 to 25.</a>

Ohio State, whose&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/grambling-ohio-state-football-score-96b9a6e7e8bb3dfabe25477cf6431d4c">70-0 win over Grambling</a>&nbsp;was among a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-blowouts-0c47d31f2102ab2ab03f97af9da9e23d">bevy of weekend blowouts</a>, received 57 of the 65 first-place votes from the media panel. Penn State got five first-place votes and LSU two.

No. 4 Oregon, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oklahoma-state-oregon-score-0ff94fe3dc18d47d9fb006abaa79ef73">thrashed Oklahoma State</a>, received the other first place-vote and flip-flopped with Georgia. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/austin-peay-georgia-football-score-6488a2d750744d8aa5e826876c36be7e">Bulldogs’ uninspired win over FCS foe Austin Peay</a>&nbsp;caused them to slip to No. 6 behind Miami.

Texas, Notre Dame, Illinois and Florida State round out the top 10, with the latter two teams in the top 10 for the first time this season.

Oklahoma earned a five-rung promotion to No. 13, its highest ranking in two years, after its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-oklahoma-football-score-205174dd4457f58e604c72adb0d8c767">win over Michigan.</a>&nbsp;The Wolverines dropped to No. 23. Tennessee jumped seven spots to No. 15, and No. 16 Texas A&amp;M and No. 17 each moved up three.

The biggest upward mover was No. 18 South Florida, which was eight spots out of the Top 25 last week. The Bulls pulled the upset of the day with their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-florida-florida-score-e3fd8638afa93e11f72225d5c9d0aeaf">18-16 win over then-No. 13 Florida.</a>&nbsp;That followed their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boise-state-usf-college-football-score-ef603421c931da0212499fac6a307fed">34-7 home win over then-No. 25 Boise State.</a>

No. 24 Auburn and No. 25 Missouri cracked the rankings along with USF.

Auburn followed a two-touchdown win at Baylor with an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ball-state-auburn-score-9fe86dc8498fed144c4591dbbc3982f1">easy victory over Ball State</a>&nbsp;and are in the Top 25 for the first time under third-year coach Hugh Freeze.

Missouri, which appeared in all but two polls last season, is back in after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-jayhawks-missouri-tigers-score-35377af3619d71c2b31ce253c6a7708a">win over Border War rival Kansas.</a>

Arizona State (12), Florida (13) and SMU (17) are out.

The Sun Devils erased a 17-point deficit and led in the final minute before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-state-mississippi-state-score-867c1da1d4d9d9467b4d865768dd2f31">losing at Mississippi State.</a>&nbsp;Florida’s loss&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-billy-napier-scott-stricklin-e3489c1cc482136e954a269d822bb481">put heat back on coach Billy Napier.</a>&nbsp;SMU also blew a lead in the last minute and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/smu-baylor-score-t25-6fe87aff4f9731097d2be93c8521c6ee">lost to Baylor in two overtimes.</a>

— The Bulls’ ascent under third-year coach Alex Golesh is more of a revival than breakthrough. They have their first ranking since 2018 under Charlie Strong. Jim Leavitt had the 2008 team as high as No. 10, and his 2007 team spent three straight weeks in the top 10 and was No. 2 after a 6-0 start.

— No. 10 Florida State, up four spots, has its highest ranking since it was No. 10 in the 2024 preseason poll.

— No. 9 Illinois has its first top-10 ranking since it was No. 7 in December 2001.

— Clemson, which trailed Troy 16-0 midway through the second quarter before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/troy-clemson-football-score-522fb30f9c288bbf0a5ef08002f5866f">winning 27-16,</a>&nbsp;slipped from No. 8 to No. 12.

— Until Sunday, Alabama and Auburn had not appeared in the Top 25 at the same time since November 2021.

— The 16-team Southeastern Conference is the first league to have 11 teams in the Top 25.

SEC — 11 ranked teams (Nos. 3, 6, 7, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19, 24, 25).

No. 18 South Florida at No. 5 Miami: Bulls will try to become the fifth team, and first since Miami in 1987, to open a season with three wins over ranked opponents.

No. 6 Georgia at No. 15 Tennessee: First big test for Volunteers QB Joey Aguilar. Bulldogs go for ninth straight win in the series.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739821509395.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>(AP) —&nbsp;Ohio State, Penn State and LSU remained the top three teams in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll">The Associated Press Top 25</a>&nbsp;college football poll Sunday, Oregon is back in the top five and South Florida is ranked for the first time in seven years.There was some movement inside the top 10, but the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/top-25-college-football-poll-9-7-2025?#00000199-2502-dba2-a5f9-e76a09490000">biggest changes came from Nos. 11 to 25.</a>Ohio State, whose&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/grambling-ohio-state-football-score-96b9a6e7e8bb3dfabe25477cf6431d4c">70-0 win over Grambling</a>&nbsp;was among a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-blowouts-0c47d31f2102ab2ab03f97af9da9e23d">bevy of weekend blowouts</a>, received 57 of the 65 first-place votes from the media panel. Penn State got five first-place votes and LSU two.No. 4 Oregon, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oklahoma-state-oregon-score-0ff94fe3dc18d47d9fb006abaa79ef73">thrashed Oklahoma State</a>, received the other first place-vote and flip-flopped with Georgia. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/austin-peay-georgia-football-score-6488a2d750744d8aa5e826876c36be7e">Bulldogs’ uninspired win over FCS foe Austin Peay</a>&nbsp;caused them to slip to No. 6 behind Miami.Texas, Notre Dame, Illinois and Florida State round out the top 10, with the latter two teams in the top 10 for the first time this season.Oklahoma earned a five-rung promotion to No. 13, its highest ranking in two years, after its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-oklahoma-football-score-205174dd4457f58e604c72adb0d8c767">win over Michigan.</a>&nbsp;The Wolverines dropped to No. 23. Tennessee jumped seven spots to No. 15, and No. 16 Texas A&amp;M and No. 17 each moved up three.The biggest upward mover was No. 18 South Florida, which was eight spots out of the Top 25 last week. The Bulls pulled the upset of the day with their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-florida-florida-score-e3fd8638afa93e11f72225d5c9d0aeaf">18-16 win over then-No. 13 Florida.</a>&nbsp;That followed their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boise-state-usf-college-football-score-ef603421c931da0212499fac6a307fed">34-7 home win over then-No. 25 Boise State.</a><h2>In and out</h2>No. 24 Auburn and No. 25 Missouri cracked the rankings along with USF.Auburn followed a two-touchdown win at Baylor with an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ball-state-auburn-score-9fe86dc8498fed144c4591dbbc3982f1">easy victory over Ball State</a>&nbsp;and are in the Top 25 for the first time under third-year coach Hugh Freeze.Missouri, which appeared in all but two polls last season, is back in after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-jayhawks-missouri-tigers-score-35377af3619d71c2b31ce253c6a7708a">win over Border War rival Kansas.</a>Arizona State (12), Florida (13) and SMU (17) are out.The Sun Devils erased a 17-point deficit and led in the final minute before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-state-mississippi-state-score-867c1da1d4d9d9467b4d865768dd2f31">losing at Mississippi State.</a>&nbsp;Florida’s loss&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-billy-napier-scott-stricklin-e3489c1cc482136e954a269d822bb481">put heat back on coach Billy Napier.</a>&nbsp;SMU also blew a lead in the last minute and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/smu-baylor-score-t25-6fe87aff4f9731097d2be93c8521c6ee">lost to Baylor in two overtimes.</a><h2>Poll points</h2>— The Bulls’ ascent under third-year coach Alex Golesh is more of a revival than breakthrough. They have their first ranking since 2018 under Charlie Strong. Jim Leavitt had the 2008 team as high as No. 10, and his 2007 team spent three straight weeks in the top 10 and was No. 2 after a 6-0 start.— No. 10 Florida State, up four spots, has its highest ranking since it was No. 10 in the 2024 preseason poll.— No. 9 Illinois has its first top-10 ranking since it was No. 7 in December 2001.— Clemson, which trailed Troy 16-0 midway through the second quarter before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/troy-clemson-football-score-522fb30f9c288bbf0a5ef08002f5866f">winning 27-16,</a>&nbsp;slipped from No. 8 to No. 12.— Until Sunday, Alabama and Auburn had not appeared in the Top 25 at the same time since November 2021.— The 16-team Southeastern Conference is the first league to have 11 teams in the Top 25.<h2>Conference call</h2>SEC — 11 ranked teams (Nos. 3, 6, 7, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19, 24, 25).Big Ten — 6 (Nos. 1, 2, 4, 9, 22, 23).ACC — 3 (Nos. 5, 10, 12).Big 12 — 3 (Nos. 14, 20, 21).American — 1 (No. 18).Independent — 1 (No. 8).<h2>Ranked vs. ranked</h2>No. 18 South Florida at No. 5 Miami: Bulls will try to become the fifth team, and first since Miami in 1987, to open a season with three wins over ranked opponents.No. 6 Georgia at No. 15 Tennessee: First big test for Volunteers QB Joey Aguilar. Bulldogs go for ninth straight win in the series.

🏈 AP Top 25 after Week 2

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Byron Buxton and Kody Clemens homered and the Minnesota Twins beat Kansas City 5-1 on Sunday to drop the Royals two games back for the last AL wild card.

Buxton led off the game against Michael Lorenzen (5-10) with his 30th homer, extending his career high. He was hit by a 91.8 mph sinker in the fifth inning and was replaced for the bottom of the sixth because of what the Twins said was a bruised left knee.

Clemens hit his 16th homer in the fourth, a 451-drive that gave Minnesota a 3-0 lead. Minnesota padded its advantage in the fourth with a double steal, with Royce Lewis on first and Luke Keaschall on third.

Kansas City (73-69) fell two games behind Seattle (75-68) for the third AL wild card.

Bailey Ober (5-7) gave up one run and four hits in 5 1/3 innings,

Lorenzen allowed four runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings.

Kansas City scored on Vinnie Pasquantino's RBI single in the sixth.

Kansas City had the potential tying run at the plate with one out in the eighth before Kody Funderburk struck out Pasquantino and Justin Topa retired Salvador Perez on a groundout.

Buxton has 17 leadoff homers, including eight this season.

Twins: RHP Simeon Woods Richardson (5-4, 4.53 ERA) starts Monday against the Los Angeles Angels and RHP Caden Dana (0-0, 4.91).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Byron Buxton and Kody Clemens homered and the Minnesota Twins beat Kansas City 5-1 on Sunday to drop the Royals two games back for the last AL wild card.Buxton led off the game against Michael Lorenzen (5-10) with his 30th homer, extending his career high. He was hit by a 91.8 mph sinker in the fifth inning and was replaced for the bottom of the sixth because of what the Twins said was a bruised left knee.Clemens hit his 16th homer in the fourth, a 451-drive that gave Minnesota a 3-0 lead. Minnesota padded its advantage in the fourth with a double steal, with Royce Lewis on first and Luke Keaschall on third.Kansas City (73-69) fell two games behind Seattle (75-68) for the third AL wild card.Bailey Ober (5-7) gave up one run and four hits in 5 1/3 innings,Lorenzen allowed four runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings.Kansas City scored on Vinnie Pasquantino's RBI single in the sixth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kansas City had the potential tying run at the plate with one out in the eighth before Kody Funderburk struck out Pasquantino and Justin Topa retired Salvador Perez on a groundout.<h2>Key stat</h2>Buxton has 17 leadoff homers, including eight this season.<h2>Up next</h2>Twins: RHP Simeon Woods Richardson (5-4, 4.53 ERA) starts Monday against the Los Angeles Angels and RHP Caden Dana (0-0, 4.91).

 ⚾ Royals fall 2 back for last AL wild card after Sunday loss to Twins

No. 1 Hutchinson 76, New Mexico Military Institute 8 RV Cisco College 21, RV Coffeyville 14 No. 6 Garden City 42 No. 4 Navarro College27 Independence 21, Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M 11

Ottawa 31, St. Mary 27 No. 12 Friends 62, Avila 7 RV Kansas Wesleyan 38, Bethany 7 No. 14 Southwestern 28, Tabor 21 Evangel 51, Sterling 14 McPherson 33, Bethel 7

Fort Hays State 36, No. 5 CSU Pueblo 35 (Thur.) Northwest Missouri State 34, Washburn 7 Missouri Southern 38, Southwest Baptist 31 No. 10 Angelo State 41, Emporia State 20 No. 19 Central Oklahoma 27, No. 13 Pittsburg State 24 Nebraska-Kearney 41, Chadron State 21

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719520416153.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>KJCCC</h2>No. 1 Hutchinson 76, New Mexico Military Institute 8 RV Cisco College 21, RV Coffeyville 14 No. 6 Garden City 42 No. 4 Navarro College27 Independence 21, Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M 11<h2>KCAC</h2>Ottawa 31, St. Mary 27 No. 12 Friends 62, Avila 7 RV Kansas Wesleyan 38, Bethany 7 No. 14 Southwestern 28, Tabor 21 Evangel 51, Sterling 14 McPherson 33, Bethel 7<h2>MIAA</h2>Fort Hays State 36, No. 5 CSU Pueblo 35 (Thur.) Northwest Missouri State 34, Washburn 7 Missouri Southern 38, Southwest Baptist 31 No. 10 Angelo State 41, Emporia State 20 No. 19 Central Oklahoma 27, No. 13 Pittsburg State 24 Nebraska-Kearney 41, Chadron State 21

🏈 KJCCC, KCAC, MIAA college football scoreboard

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cale Hellums accounted for three touchdowns that included a 14-yard touchdown run with 2:52 left to help Army beat Kansas State 24-21 on Saturday night.

Kansas State’s (1-2) final drive ended when Avery Johnson threw an interception just past midfield.

The Black Knights (1-1) kept the ball on the ground, running the ball 70 times out of their 82 offensive plays. Army had four scoring drives of at least 13 plays, including three which took at least seven minutes, and outgained K-State 332-247 in total yards.

Hellums completed 7 of 11 passes and ran 41 times for 124 yards. He tossed a 2-yard touchdown pass to Brady Anderson to end the first half.

Hellums later added a 1-yard TD run late in the third quarter that gave the Black Knights a 14-13 lead, but Bryce Noernberg returned the ensuing kickoff 99 yards into the end zone and K-State regained the lead, 21-13.

Army held a 40:44 to 19:16 advantage in time of possession and is the first K-State opponent to rush for more than 200 yards since late in the 2023 season.

Johnson finished 15-of-25 passing for 172 yards and threw one touchdown pass to Jaron Tibbs for the Wildcats. Tibbs finished with five catches for 61 yards.

Army: The Black Knights went for it on fourth down seven times, converting six. Their most gutsy attempt was Hellums' TD toss to Anderson on 4th-and-goal from the 2 with three seconds left in the first half.

Kansas State: The Wildcats missed starting running back Dylan Edwards, who was injured in the season's opening game the first time he touched the ball. Without Edwards' explosiveness, the Wildcats rushed for 75 yards on 18 carries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757207122372.jpeg" alt="Kansas State punter Simon McClannan, top left, celebrates with place kicker Luis Rodriguez, center, after Rodriguez kicked a field goal during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State punter Simon McClannan, top left, celebrates with place kicker Luis Rodriguez, center, after Rodriguez kicked a field goal during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cale Hellums accounted for three touchdowns that included a 14-yard touchdown run with 2:52 left to help Army beat Kansas State 24-21 on Saturday night.Kansas State’s (1-2) final drive ended when Avery Johnson threw an interception just past midfield.The Black Knights (1-1) kept the ball on the ground, running the ball 70 times out of their 82 offensive plays. Army had four scoring drives of at least 13 plays, including three which took at least seven minutes, and outgained K-State 332-247 in total yards.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757207177287.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson runs the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson runs the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hellums completed 7 of 11 passes and ran 41 times for 124 yards. He tossed a 2-yard touchdown pass to Brady Anderson to end the first half.Hellums later added a 1-yard TD run late in the third quarter that gave the Black Knights a 14-13 lead, but Bryce Noernberg returned the ensuing kickoff 99 yards into the end zone and K-State regained the lead, 21-13.Army held a 40:44 to 19:16 advantage in time of possession and is the first K-State opponent to rush for more than 200 yards since late in the 2023 season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757207209449.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson looks to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson looks to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Army, Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson finished 15-of-25 passing for 172 yards and threw one touchdown pass to Jaron Tibbs for the Wildcats. Tibbs finished with five catches for 61 yards.The TakeawayArmy: The Black Knights went for it on fourth down seven times, converting six. Their most gutsy attempt was Hellums' TD toss to Anderson on 4th-and-goal from the 2 with three seconds left in the first half.Kansas State: The Wildcats missed starting running back Dylan Edwards, who was injured in the season's opening game the first time he touched the ball. Without Edwards' explosiveness, the Wildcats rushed for 75 yards on 18 carries.

Hellums accounts for 3 TDs, scores with 2:52 left to push Army past Kansas State 24-21

&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State men's basketball will host Drake in a charity scrimmage on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 1 p.m. in Charles Koch Arena.

All tickets are $20, and seating is general admission. There will be no reserved seating. Gates open one hour before tipoff. Tickets are available for purchase&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/event/MB26/DRAKE">online</a>&nbsp;or by contacting the Shocker Athletics Ticket Office.&nbsp;Proceeds will be split between two local community groups, the Wichita Children's Home and UJUMP.

Charles Koch Arena parking will be free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The scrimmage with Drake will not be a prototypical game format, it will instead be an extended scrimmage featuring offensive and defensive segments, in-game scenarios and live play.

"I'm glad Shocker fans will be able to watch our scrimmage versus a 2025 NCAA Tournament team and support two wonderful charities that have impacted Wichita," said Wichita State head men's basketball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/paul-mills/1291">Paul Mills</a>. "(Lynbert) Cheese (Johnson) is a Shocker legend as a player, however, his contributions to assist Wichita youth through UJUMP have been transformative.&nbsp; Additionally, Wichita Children's Home has a profound effect on children as they provide emergency and temporary residential care in Wichita. Supporting the Shockers will directly correspond to you helping Wichita children through these two tremendous organizations.

"The former Missouri Valley Conference rivals will meet in the Roundhouse for the first time since Jan. 4, 2017. The Shockers have the longest series history with the Bulldogs out of any other Valley team. Wichita State and Drake have met 152 times with the Shockers owning a 104-48 record in the series. Wichita State is in Year 3 of the&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/paul-mills/1291">Paul Mills</a>&nbsp;era, while the Bulldogs usher in a brand new era under Eric Henderson in 2025-26. Henderson arrives in Des Moines after six successful seasons at South Dakota State.

Shocker Nation can experience the energy of Charles Koch Arena this upcoming basketball season by purchasing season tickets. Prices are the lowest they've been in 15 years. Secure your seats online at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fu51260122.ct.sendgrid.net%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3Du001.9AlrPfCiKv7fMtdf946BxD4h2U5BA3US52H3M517WYTwJtcf0VycoElf9PnSKiApgTIt_mEMQBmVhasTTanttoaTtTnITm1k5DJhU6WQsJ-2FjBi6nzFA9fUgMnzp3mhXpKvB9fbzagaCb8N-2Blp90qcfXPkh09XxqK5NKkjURaXveKgSzvXlMkh46tamYzxvNz3uBEv-2F5c3U7tV38PKrKmi2xhIIstpcHFjd-2BdTM4YR4Oim-2FTgnA1TpdDvQ5wuytZXzLZLfSaaYdju-2BepBZ7lrM9HnOWw-3D-3D&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cwpletcher%40goshockers.com%7Ca675b7ecac774d8f04a108dddb3c2520%7Ce05b6b3f19804b248637580771f44dee%7C1%7C0%7C638907773564035269%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9NCqtO%2Bz4GxnM%2BMUvK7q9atBQU%2B7EUxE36s86LAETvk%3D&amp;reserved=0">GoShockers.com/Tickets</a>&nbsp;or visit the Shocker Ticket Office in Charles Koch Arena during open hours (Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm).Wichita State men's basketball is holding an open practice and select-a-seat event on Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. in Charles Koch Arena, and Shocker Madness is slated for Oct. 4 at 6 p.m.

About the Wichita Children's Home: A Home with a Heart Since 1888, the Wichita Children's Home (WCH) has served as a safe haven for children and youth in crisis—providing compassionate, trauma-responsive care to children facing abuse, neglect, exploitation, trafficking, grief&nbsp;and homelessness.

Each year, Wichita Children's Home supports more than 1,800 children and youth—offering preventative services, emergency shelter, and comprehensive care. In the tradition of neighbor's helping neighbor's, Wichita Children's Home provides 24/7 temporary residential care for youth from birth through age 24, helping them find safety, stability&nbsp;and hope for their future.

Thank you for joining Wichita State Athletics in helping our communities children.

About UJUMPUJUMP is a 501C3 Wichita non-profit junior mentoring and entrepreneurial program founded by former Wichita State&nbsp;All-American Lynbert "Cheese" Johnson. UJUMP focuses on 4th to 7th grade students in the Wichita and Andover&nbsp;school districts. UJUMP is a unique concept that concentrates on the "average" student who gets passing grades but are at risk of being overlooked. Students are selected for the program by school principals with feedback provided by their teachers. UJUMP has many great student success stories as a result&nbsp;of this program.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757205932826.png" alt="Graphic courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Graphic courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State men's basketball will host Drake in a charity scrimmage on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 1 p.m. in Charles Koch Arena.All tickets are $20, and seating is general admission. There will be no reserved seating. Gates open one hour before tipoff. Tickets are available for purchase&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/event/MB26/DRAKE">online</a>&nbsp;or by contacting the Shocker Athletics Ticket Office.&nbsp;Proceeds will be split between two local community groups, the Wichita Children's Home and UJUMP.Charles Koch Arena parking will be free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.The scrimmage with Drake will not be a prototypical game format, it will instead be an extended scrimmage featuring offensive and defensive segments, in-game scenarios and live play."I'm glad Shocker fans will be able to watch our scrimmage versus a 2025 NCAA Tournament team and support two wonderful charities that have impacted Wichita," said Wichita State head men's basketball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/paul-mills/1291">Paul Mills</a>. "(Lynbert) Cheese (Johnson) is a Shocker legend as a player, however, his contributions to assist Wichita youth through UJUMP have been transformative.&nbsp; Additionally, Wichita Children's Home has a profound effect on children as they provide emergency and temporary residential care in Wichita. Supporting the Shockers will directly correspond to you helping Wichita children through these two tremendous organizations."The former Missouri Valley Conference rivals will meet in the Roundhouse for the first time since Jan. 4, 2017. The Shockers have the longest series history with the Bulldogs out of any other Valley team. Wichita State and Drake have met 152 times with the Shockers owning a 104-48 record in the series. Wichita State is in Year 3 of the&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/paul-mills/1291">Paul Mills</a>&nbsp;era, while the Bulldogs usher in a brand new era under Eric Henderson in 2025-26. Henderson arrives in Des Moines after six successful seasons at South Dakota State.Shocker Nation can experience the energy of Charles Koch Arena this upcoming basketball season by purchasing season tickets. Prices are the lowest they've been in 15 years. Secure your seats online at&nbsp;<a href="https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fu51260122.ct.sendgrid.net%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3Du001.9AlrPfCiKv7fMtdf946BxD4h2U5BA3US52H3M517WYTwJtcf0VycoElf9PnSKiApgTIt_mEMQBmVhasTTanttoaTtTnITm1k5DJhU6WQsJ-2FjBi6nzFA9fUgMnzp3mhXpKvB9fbzagaCb8N-2Blp90qcfXPkh09XxqK5NKkjURaXveKgSzvXlMkh46tamYzxvNz3uBEv-2F5c3U7tV38PKrKmi2xhIIstpcHFjd-2BdTM4YR4Oim-2FTgnA1TpdDvQ5wuytZXzLZLfSaaYdju-2BepBZ7lrM9HnOWw-3D-3D&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cwpletcher%40goshockers.com%7Ca675b7ecac774d8f04a108dddb3c2520%7Ce05b6b3f19804b248637580771f44dee%7C1%7C0%7C638907773564035269%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9NCqtO%2Bz4GxnM%2BMUvK7q9atBQU%2B7EUxE36s86LAETvk%3D&amp;reserved=0">GoShockers.com/Tickets</a>&nbsp;or visit the Shocker Ticket Office in Charles Koch Arena during open hours (Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm).Wichita State men's basketball is holding an open practice and select-a-seat event on Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. in Charles Koch Arena, and Shocker Madness is slated for Oct. 4 at 6 p.m.About the Wichita Children's Home: A Home with a Heart Since 1888, the Wichita Children's Home (WCH) has served as a safe haven for children and youth in crisis—providing compassionate, trauma-responsive care to children facing abuse, neglect, exploitation, trafficking, grief&nbsp;and homelessness.Each year, Wichita Children's Home supports more than 1,800 children and youth—offering preventative services, emergency shelter, and comprehensive care. In the tradition of neighbor's helping neighbor's, Wichita Children's Home provides 24/7 temporary residential care for youth from birth through age 24, helping them find safety, stability&nbsp;and hope for their future.Thank you for joining Wichita State Athletics in helping our communities children.About UJUMPUJUMP is a 501C3 Wichita non-profit junior mentoring and entrepreneurial program founded by former Wichita State&nbsp;All-American Lynbert "Cheese" Johnson. UJUMP focuses on 4th to 7th grade students in the Wichita and Andover&nbsp;school districts. UJUMP is a unique concept that concentrates on the "average" student who gets passing grades but are at risk of being overlooked. Students are selected for the program by school principals with feedback provided by their teachers. UJUMP has many great student success stories as a result&nbsp;of this program.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Shockers to host Drake in charity scrimmage on Oct. 11

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Kevin Coleman Jr. is on his fourth school in four years, yet it's the one that brought him closest to home. The wide receiver grew up in St. Louis, a couple hours east of the Missouri campus, and was well-versed in the Tigers' longtime rivalry with Kansas.

To beat the Jayhawks in the renewal of the Border War?

“It meant everything to win this game,” Coleman said.

Beau Pribula threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns, Jamal Roberts ran for 143 yards and the clinching score, while Coleman had a big game himself to help the Tigers rally for a 42-31 victory over the Jayhawks on Saturday.

The bitter series, which began in 1891 and remains among the most-played in Division I football, had been on hiatus since 2011, when Missouri bolted from the Big 12 for the SEC. Officials at Kansas vowed at the time they would never play again, since the move in part put its conference on shaky footing. It wasn't until recently that the schools began playing in other sports.

Yet the 121st meeting of the schools on the gridiron did not take place until Saturday.

Kansas raced to a 21-6 lead. Missouri (2-0) countered with a big second quarter to forge a 21-all tie by halftime. The lead swung back and forth over the final 30 minutes, with the Jayhawks pulling ahead 31-28 with 8:45 left and the Tigers rattling off two scores in the closing minutes to win the “war drum” that is awarded to the victors.

“Growing up a Mizzou kid, you always heard about this game and how big it is,” said Missouri tight end Brett Norfleet, who also grew up in the St. Louis area, and whose second touchdown reception gave his team the lead for good.

“There's a certain level of passion to it,” Norfleet said. “It's playing for the guy to the left and right of you, and it's also playing for the past teams that have played KU, and not letting them down.”

Want proof of the animosity harbored by the fanbases? At one point, Missouri officials brought a fan wearing a white T-shirt down to the field to try a 45-yard field goal for $25,000. He turned and kicked the ball at the Kansas bench instead, then lifted up his shirt to reveal a — well, a pointed message about KU painted in black letters on his chest.

He was subsequently ushered right back into the crowd, where yellow-clad Missouri fans gave him a standing ovation.

“When we rolled up to the game today, I saw so many Mizzou fans, more than I've ever seen,” Norfleet said. “At the end of the day, we're trying to block out the noise, right? But I mean, I think it's good. I think it's good for both schools to play each year.”

Even those without a long-standing stake in the rivalry knew the importance of it. That included Pribula, the Penn State transfer, who grew up in Pennsylvania — about as far as you can get away from the Midwest. He showed the kind of moxie and desire that has become such a big part of the rivalry, and was so important for the Tigers down the stretch on Saturday.

Twice, the QB exuded poise and confidence in converting fourth downs as Missouri was trying to rally for the go-ahead score.

“It's not just me. We have a lot of really good leaders on this team,” Pribula said, "and I thought that showed up big-time for us."

The Jayhawks (2-1) showed plenty of fight, too. They bounced right back when Missouri scored early in the game, and they did the same after halftime, when momentum was firmly on the other side and the game was getting away form them.

“There's a lot around it,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said, “but at the same time, we're two teams playing. We wanted a good, clean football game that was highly competitive. ... And we got it. I thought it was intense, obviously. A lot of enthusiasm and emotions on both sides. I thought it was a great atmosphere here. Just disappoitned where it ended up.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757205435905.jpeg" alt="Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels (6) is tackled by Missouri defensive end Darris Smith (19) after a five-yard gain during the second half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Columbia, Mo. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels (6) is tackled by Missouri defensive end Darris Smith (19) after a five-yard gain during the second half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Columbia, Mo. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Kevin Coleman Jr. is on his fourth school in four years, yet it's the one that brought him closest to home. The wide receiver grew up in St. Louis, a couple hours east of the Missouri campus, and was well-versed in the Tigers' longtime rivalry with Kansas.To beat the Jayhawks in the renewal of the Border War?“It meant everything to win this game,” Coleman said.Beau Pribula threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns, Jamal Roberts ran for 143 yards and the clinching score, while Coleman had a big game himself to help the Tigers rally for a 42-31 victory over the Jayhawks on Saturday.The bitter series, which began in 1891 and remains among the most-played in Division I football, had been on hiatus since 2011, when Missouri bolted from the Big 12 for the SEC. Officials at Kansas vowed at the time they would never play again, since the move in part put its conference on shaky footing. It wasn't until recently that the schools began playing in other sports.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757200664616.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Yet the 121st meeting of the schools on the gridiron did not take place until Saturday.And it lived up to the expectations.Kansas raced to a 21-6 lead. Missouri (2-0) countered with a big second quarter to forge a 21-all tie by halftime. The lead swung back and forth over the final 30 minutes, with the Jayhawks pulling ahead 31-28 with 8:45 left and the Tigers rattling off two scores in the closing minutes to win the “war drum” that is awarded to the victors.“Growing up a Mizzou kid, you always heard about this game and how big it is,” said Missouri tight end Brett Norfleet, who also grew up in the St. Louis area, and whose second touchdown reception gave his team the lead for good.“There's a certain level of passion to it,” Norfleet said. “It's playing for the guy to the left and right of you, and it's also playing for the past teams that have played KU, and not letting them down.”Want proof of the animosity harbored by the fanbases? At one point, Missouri officials brought a fan wearing a white T-shirt down to the field to try a 45-yard field goal for $25,000. He turned and kicked the ball at the Kansas bench instead, then lifted up his shirt to reveal a — well, a pointed message about KU painted in black letters on his chest.He was subsequently ushered right back into the crowd, where yellow-clad Missouri fans gave him a standing ovation.“When we rolled up to the game today, I saw so many Mizzou fans, more than I've ever seen,” Norfleet said. “At the end of the day, we're trying to block out the noise, right? But I mean, I think it's good. I think it's good for both schools to play each year.”Even those without a long-standing stake in the rivalry knew the importance of it. That included Pribula, the Penn State transfer, who grew up in Pennsylvania — about as far as you can get away from the Midwest. He showed the kind of moxie and desire that has become such a big part of the rivalry, and was so important for the Tigers down the stretch on Saturday.Twice, the QB exuded poise and confidence in converting fourth downs as Missouri was trying to rally for the go-ahead score.“It's not just me. We have a lot of really good leaders on this team,” Pribula said, "and I thought that showed up big-time for us."The Jayhawks (2-1) showed plenty of fight, too. They bounced right back when Missouri scored early in the game, and they did the same after halftime, when momentum was firmly on the other side and the game was getting away form them.“There's a lot around it,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said, “but at the same time, we're two teams playing. We wanted a good, clean football game that was highly competitive. ... And we got it. I thought it was intense, obviously. A lot of enthusiasm and emotions on both sides. I thought it was a great atmosphere here. Just disappoitned where it ended up.”___

Border War returns with emotion and good football as Missouri rallies to beat Kansas

ROSWELL, N.M. — Christian Johnson threw for five touchdowns and the No. 1 Dragons (1-0) forced eight turnovers as head coach Drew Dallas notched win No. 50 in a 76-8 victory over New Mexico Military Institute (1-1).

After an early first down, Hutchinson's offense stalled on the first possession before the Dragons scored on three-straight possessions.

The first touchdown came on a Titus Petteway 1-yard run that capped a quick three-play drive that covered 60 yards.

Johnson then found Eddie McLaughlin twice through the air.

The first came on a 62-yard strike, followed by a 14-yard touchdown pass.

Johnson then found Derrick Salley Jr. for the next two scores through the air.

Johnson hit Salley Jr. on an 18-yard pass in the second quarter to put Hutchinson up 27-0 at the break.

M.J. Graham picked off NMMI quarterback Jake South twice in the second quarter to keep the Broncos at bay.

Jeffrey Manns II pulled a pass away from Antonio Muniz for the first interception of the second frame.

South finished 19-of-32 for 217 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions.

The Broncos put the ball on the ground five times and the Dragons came away from all five piles with the ball.

Johnson's day was done midway through the third quarter. He finished 14-of-18 with 237 yards and five touchdowns. He is the first Dragon quarterback since Dylan Laible in 2021 to have five passing touchdowns in a game.

Hudson Ferralez replaced Johnson and the air raid continued.

Ferralez was 4-for-4 with two touchdowns. He hit Bobby Shaw III from 10-yards out on a highlight-worthy snag.

Shaw III had a defender draped all over him as he put one hand in the air and came down with a one-handed grab for the touchdown.

Ferralez later found Salley Jr. on a 16-yard score.

Salley Jr. finished with three grabs for three touchdowns and 56 yards.

Late in the third quarter, South had trouble handing the ball off to his running back and the ball fell to the ground. Kevin Moorer Jr. scooped it up and ran the ball 15 yards to the house.

The scoop-and-score put Hutchinson up 62-8.

The Broncos got on the board with a 4-yard touchdown pass from South to Geramyah Porter. The score came on a fourth-and-goal conversion.

Hutchinson finished the day on the ground with a 93-yard scamper from Rayvelle Leak and a 1-yard burst from Daeshaun Carter.

This marks career-win No. 50 for Drew Dallas, who is now in his sixth season. Dallas is 50-5 overall with an impressive 22-1 road record.

No. 1 Hutchinson is home Sept. 13 at noon to face No. 2 Iowa Western.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757196186071.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ROSWELL, N.M. — Christian Johnson threw for five touchdowns and the No. 1 Dragons (1-0) forced eight turnovers as head coach Drew Dallas notched win No. 50 in a 76-8 victory over New Mexico Military Institute (1-1).After an early first down, Hutchinson's offense stalled on the first possession before the Dragons scored on three-straight possessions.The first touchdown came on a Titus Petteway 1-yard run that capped a quick three-play drive that covered 60 yards.Johnson then found Eddie McLaughlin twice through the air.The first came on a 62-yard strike, followed by a 14-yard touchdown pass.Johnson then found Derrick Salley Jr. for the next two scores through the air.Johnson hit Salley Jr. on an 18-yard pass in the second quarter to put Hutchinson up 27-0 at the break.M.J. Graham picked off NMMI quarterback Jake South twice in the second quarter to keep the Broncos at bay.Jeffrey Manns II pulled a pass away from Antonio Muniz for the first interception of the second frame.South finished 19-of-32 for 217 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions.The Broncos put the ball on the ground five times and the Dragons came away from all five piles with the ball.Johnson's day was done midway through the third quarter. He finished 14-of-18 with 237 yards and five touchdowns. He is the first Dragon quarterback since Dylan Laible in 2021 to have five passing touchdowns in a game.Hudson Ferralez replaced Johnson and the air raid continued.Ferralez was 4-for-4 with two touchdowns. He hit Bobby Shaw III from 10-yards out on a highlight-worthy snag.Shaw III had a defender draped all over him as he put one hand in the air and came down with a one-handed grab for the touchdown.Ferralez later found Salley Jr. on a 16-yard score.Salley Jr. finished with three grabs for three touchdowns and 56 yards.Late in the third quarter, South had trouble handing the ball off to his running back and the ball fell to the ground. Kevin Moorer Jr. scooped it up and ran the ball 15 yards to the house.The scoop-and-score put Hutchinson up 62-8.The Broncos got on the board with a 4-yard touchdown pass from South to Geramyah Porter. The score came on a fourth-and-goal conversion.Hutchinson finished the day on the ground with a 93-yard scamper from Rayvelle Leak and a 1-yard burst from Daeshaun Carter.This marks career-win No. 50 for Drew Dallas, who is now in his sixth season. Dallas is 50-5 overall with an impressive 22-1 road record.No. 1 Hutchinson is home Sept. 13 at noon to face No. 2 Iowa Western.

🏈 Dallas gets win No. 50

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757011232173.png" alt="Under the Helmet" />
 <figcaption>Under the Helmet</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Under the Helmet with Christian Johnson - Game 1" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qsbvu-1954b63-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧🏈 Under the Helmet with HutchCC QB Christian Johnson

No. 1 Hutchinson CC at New Mexico Military Institute

Location: Colt Stadium; Roswell, NM Countdown to Kickoff: 12:30 p.m. Kickoff: 1 p.m. Play-by-Play: Sean Boston; Analyst: Daren Dunn

<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/releases/20250905epg62v">CLICK HERE FOR GAME PREVIEW</a>

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 </figure>No. 1 Hutchinson CC at New Mexico Military InstituteLocation: Colt Stadium; Roswell, NM Countdown to Kickoff: 12:30 p.m. Kickoff: 1 p.m. Play-by-Play: Sean Boston; Analyst: Daren Dunn<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/releases/20250905epg62v">CLICK HERE FOR GAME PREVIEW</a>

🎧🏈 LISTEN LIVE: No. 1 HutchCC at New Mexico Military

By Steve Carpenter Hutchinson CC Sports Information Director

Much like June 5, 2021, the day of December 18, 2025 will always be a celebrated day in the history of Hutchinson Community College Football.

Why are those days revered in Blue Dragon lore? On those two days in history, the Blue Dragons raised NJCAA national championship football trophies.

Sixth-year Blue Dragon head coach Drew Dallas pridefully looks at those days often, but as the 2025 season opener at New Mexico Military has almost arrived, the title of an old Bob Seger song seems apropos for the occasion. It's time for the Blue Dragons to "turn the page."

Picked No. 1 in both the Jayhawk Conference preseason coaches' poll and the NJCAA Division I Football preseason rankings, the Blue Dragons embark on their 2025 journey starting Saturday in Roswell, New Mexico against New Mexico Military. Game time in at 1 p.m. at Colt Field.

According to Dallas, there wasn't much championship hangover suffered after the team returned from holiday break last January. The focus has been a singular one amongst the players as the entire returning group is hungry for more in 2025.

"We moved on pretty quickly," said Dallas, who is 49-5 in his first five seasons with the Blue Dragons. "Back in January, our guys were really putting in a lot of work and worked hard through the spring semester. They have worked hard to this point.

"The new year brings new challenges. We have some important pieces that we have to replace. We are excited about this group."

The 2025 Blue Dragons return five offensive starters (12 overall letter winners) and four starters on defense (14 total) for the 2025 season.

Some of those pieces to be replaced Dallas referred to are:

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757171468457.jpeg" alt="Derrick Salley Jr. is one of five offensive returners to see plenty of playing time in 2024 for the Blue Dragon Football team, which opens the 2025 season on Saturday at New Mexico Military Institute." />
 <figcaption>Derrick Salley Jr. is one of five offensive returners to see plenty of playing time in 2024 for the Blue Dragon Football team, which opens the 2025 season on Saturday at New Mexico Military Institute.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Steve Carpenter Hutchinson CC Sports Information DirectorMuch like June 5, 2021, the day of December 18, 2025 will always be a celebrated day in the history of Hutchinson Community College Football.Why are those days revered in Blue Dragon lore? On those two days in history, the Blue Dragons raised NJCAA national championship football trophies.Sixth-year Blue Dragon head coach Drew Dallas pridefully looks at those days often, but as the 2025 season opener at New Mexico Military has almost arrived, the title of an old Bob Seger song seems apropos for the occasion. It's time for the Blue Dragons to "turn the page."<div>BLUE DRAGON FOOTBALL No. 1 Hutchinson (0-0) at New Mexico Military (1-0) 2025 Season Opener When: Saturday, September 6, 2025 Where: Colt Field, Roswell, NM Kickoff: 1 p.m. CT Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 12:30 p.m. &ndash; PBP &ndash; Sean Boston; Color &ndash; Daren Dunn</a> Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvptv.com/nmmi-junior-college/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New Mexico Military Video</a> X: @bluedragonsport <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/files/Game_1_-_New_Mexico_Military.pdf">CLICK FOR BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES</a></div>Picked No. 1 in both the Jayhawk Conference preseason coaches' poll and the NJCAA Division I Football preseason rankings, the Blue Dragons embark on their 2025 journey starting Saturday in Roswell, New Mexico against New Mexico Military. Game time in at 1 p.m. at Colt Field.According to Dallas, there wasn't much championship hangover suffered after the team returned from holiday break last January. The focus has been a singular one amongst the players as the entire returning group is hungry for more in 2025."We moved on pretty quickly," said Dallas, who is 49-5 in his first five seasons with the Blue Dragons. "Back in January, our guys were really putting in a lot of work and worked hard through the spring semester. They have worked hard to this point."The new year brings new challenges. We have some important pieces that we have to replace. We are excited about this group."The 2025 Blue Dragons return five offensive starters (12 overall letter winners) and four starters on defense (14 total) for the 2025 season.Some of those pieces to be replaced Dallas referred to are:+ Running back Waymond Jordan Jr., who was the KJCCC and NJCAA Offensive Player of the Year and the winner of the JUCO Weekly Trophy (the junior college equivalent of the Heisman Trophy), who rushed for 1,613 yards and 20 touchdowns last season;+ Starting quarterback Samari Collier and his combined 29 passing and rushing touchdowns;+ The top three receivers from 2024 in Benson Prosper, Tre Brown and Ja'Cory Thomas, who combined for 97 catches, 1,481 receiving yards and 18 receiving touchdowns;+ Several players from a No. 1-ranked Blue Dragon defensive unit that allowed 15.8 points per game."Last year, once we kind of figured out who that team was, we understood them better and we coached off of that," Dallas said. "This football team has been pretty level-headed and consistent since they have arrived. We hope that will be a continued trend."The 2024 Blue Dragon offense averaged 45.1 points per game last season, the fourth-highest scoring average in team history. The Dragons rushed for 267.9 yards per game, the second-best rush average per game in program history. Overall, the Dragons averaged 463.2 total yards per game, including 195.3 passing yards.Defensively, the Dragons were stingy, allowing 282.9 yards per game (107.1 rushing and 175.8 passing). The 2024 Blue Dragon defense also came up with 27 takeaways.POSITION BREAKDOWNSQuarterback: Yes, the Blue Dragons have to replace a starting quarterback from 2024, but Dallas has the luxury of having a quarterback who saw ample time in that championship season to lock into the starting spot.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/johnson_christian_b2h0">Christian Johnson</a>&nbsp;played in 10 games last season, making one start. Johnson had to replace Collier in the third quarter of the NJCAA Championship game in December and completed the comeback from a 10-point halftime deficit in the Dragons' 28-23 victory. His first pass of the game was a 34-yard touchdown strike.For the season, Johnson completed 65 of 112 passes for 983 yards and seven touchdowns. He rushed for 323 yards and four scores."Christian came in last year and led the game-winning drive against Iowa Western in Game 2 last year, but he had a hiccup against Butler in a game where he had great stats, but was bitten by the turnover bug," Dallas said. "Christian learned a lot from that. He operates extremely fast. His decision making is really good."The growth he made from last season is extremely high and I'm looking forward to watching him this year."There are six quarterbacks in the quarterback room, including redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/ferralez_hudson_jdi6">Hudson Ferralez</a>, who had a strong spring and fall camp.Running Back: How things shake out at running back will, according to Dallas, probably not be decided by Game 1, but will go well into the season."You start to learn a lot about the running back position when you get into true game reps early in the year," Dallas said. "When they are live, that's the only true way you can judge and learn their play-making ability. We have some really good people in that room."One of the returning players at running back is&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/petteway_titus_ilrp">Titus Petteway</a>, who had 36 carries for 189 yards and three touchdowns last season.Others players to watch for is&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/hurt_rashaud_tbme">Rashaud Hurt</a>, Daeshawn Carter (19 carries for 80 yards in 2024),&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/leak_rayvelle_0f4l">Rayvelle Leak</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/harvey_lekedrin_b9ot">Lekedrin Harvey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/mcbride_derrell_0lwd">Derrell McBride</a>."All of those guys had good camps and have shown flashes," Dallas said. "We will see how they continue to progress."As far as fullback/H-back players, returning player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/coonrod_cole_w81e">Cole Coonrod</a>&nbsp;redshirted last season, but is in his second year in the program. Freshmen&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/harris_jabari_8tau">Jabari Harris</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/seamster_kaiden_cn1y">Kaiden Seamster</a>&nbsp;will vie for playing time.Receivers: There are a lot of expectations from the Blue Dragon receivers in 2025.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/salley_jr._derrick_8ftn">Derrick Salley Jr.</a>&nbsp;is the leading returning receiver from 2024. Salley had 19 receptions for 317 yards and five touchdowns last season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/robinson_la-terrius_k1cd">LT Robinson</a>&nbsp;is back after 16 receptions for 189 yards last year.Also back is a player who made his name as a return specialist, but looks to play a larger role at receiver is&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>, who was the 2024 NJCAA Championship Game Most Valuable Player for his 73-yard punt return for a touchdown and his 149 all-purpose yards."Kordell has really taken that next step to define himself as a receiver," Dallas said.A new player to watch for is San Diego State transfer Bobby Shaw."You can tell Bobby has been around college football and that will help us." Dallas said. "This is going to be a good group for us."Offensive Line: All-conference center&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/thrush_mason_7hjn">Mason Thrush</a>&nbsp;returns to lead the Blue Dragon offensive line this season. Also back and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/smith_rashad_30zs">Rashad Smith</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/johnson_dylan_jy9g">Dylan Johnson</a>, both have starts at the guard positions from 2024.Dallas will have to replace both tackles for 2025.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/nolan-cook_dylan_xsfr">Dylan Nolan-Cook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/thornton_gus_82uc">Gus Thuston</a>&nbsp;are transfer players who have had good fall camps."There is good athleticism and good size on the offensive line this year," Dallas said. "There are a host of newcomers who are going to continue to push and fight for spots. Right now we just have to figure out who are our best five guys are and what positions they fit in best. Offensive line is not only an individual position, but a group position."Defensive Line: The Blue Dragons have good returning experience on the interior of the defensive line from 2024 with three players returning.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/henson_k.j._0bwy">K.J. Henson</a>&nbsp;was second on the team in 2024 with six quarterback sacks and had 21 total tackles.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/manns_jeffrey_uxl0">Jeffrey Manns</a>&nbsp;had three sacks, 34 tackles and a fumble recovery.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/robinson_taveon_s0zn">TaVeon Robinson</a>&nbsp;played in eight games last season and had 13 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and 0.5 quarterback sacks."Those three are going to anchor in the interior defensive line," Dallas said. "We have others who will be in the mix as well."At defensive end, Demarcus Johnson returns after a 27-tackle, 8.5 tackle-for-loss, 4.0 quarterback sack freshman season. Johnson also had eight quarterback hurries, two defended passes and two fumble recoveries. Johnson is 6-feet, 6-inches tall.Then add&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/wiley_darius_xg0z">Darius Wiley</a>&nbsp;at 6-6 and J'lynn Allen at 6-7 and who have the making of what Dallas described as the "longest group of defensive ends in my time at Hutchinson."Adding to the depth at defensive end are Ja'Vienane Stevens and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/wilson_jason_jg3k">Jason Wilson</a>."All of those guys give us great length and we have good speed rushers," Dallas said. "This spot is going to be pretty deep. We have going to have some good rotations and we will be able to keep guys fresh."Linebackers: Another spot with depth is linebacker. Gone are leading tacklers JaQuel Mack and Kedrick Walker, but returning with limited experience is&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/whitman_brady_gvvz">Brady Whitman</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/rice_jalen_kcje">Jalen Rice</a>. A pair of transfers in&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/haines_teegan_n109">Teegan Haines</a>&nbsp;and Tyler Lassiter will bring some game experience to the position group. Freshmen Jack sells and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/woods_keizavion_661j">Keizavion Woods</a>&nbsp;are getting a lot of early reps in practice as well."We are going to have a bunch of new faces at linebacker," Dallas said. "There is a big-time mental side to play linebacker in our system. Those guys can handle it. I think we have a lot of linebackers who can play at a very high level."Secondary: D.J. Jester was a starting cornerback for the Blue Dragons in 2024. He is being moved to safety for this season after 49 tackles, five passes broken up and an interception in his freshman season.Also back at safety is M.J. Graham (16 tackles, 2 interceptions), redshirt freshman Jonathan Boyd.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/summerall_brice_jeho">Brice Summerall</a>&nbsp;(9 tackles) played a lot of nickel for the Dragons in 2024, including several snaps in the NJCAA Championship game."That group is really important to our defense with the run fits and coverage adjustments," Dallas said. "This is a smart group and it's a talented group and they are confident in what they are doing."<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/parker_earl_zuqs">Earl Parker</a>, Ray Reynolds,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/lynch_l.j._x6px">L.J. Lynch</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/harrell_maurice_izww">MJ Harrell</a>&nbsp;all return at cornerback."We have good size at corner and some good skill at corner," Dallas said.Special Teams: The Blue Dragons must replace all the kickers and punters for the new season, but Gouldsby is back as an all-conference return specialist. The MVP of the 2024 NJCAA Championship Game, Gouldsby averaged 14.7 yards per punt return and returned two four touchdowns. He averaged 28.2 yards per kickoff return.The kicking game will have an international flavor with Alejandro de la Poza, who is a native of Mallorca, Spain and punter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/moore_denzel_wu59">Denzel More</a>&nbsp;of Baskeville, Australia.The Blue Dragons will have the exact same tough schedule in 2025, but flip-flopped from last season.After the season-opening road trip to New Mexico, the Blue Dragons will have a home-opening national championship game rematch with No. 2 Iowa Western at Noon on September 13 at Gowans Stadium. That game will be the only home game for Hutchinson until October 18 against Independence.The November portion of the schedule has games at Butler (Nov. 1), Highland (Nov. 8) and the season finale with Garden City at Gowans Stadium (Nov. 15).