By DAVID SMALE Associated Press

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Will Howard was 15-of-17 passing for 164 yards with two touchdowns as Kansas State defeated Houston 41-0 Saturday.

It was the K-State defense, which has gone nine quarters without allowing a touchdown, that shined the brightest. K-State has outscored its opponents 103-3 since falling behind Texas Tech 21-17 on Oct. 14 before winning 38-21.

“I feel like our confidence level is really high right now and it's coming at a good time,” Howard said. “The defense makes my job really easy. Those are two really good offenses (TCU and Houston) they just held to three points combined. When you have your defense playing like that, it's hard not to win games.”

The Wildcats (6-2, 4-1 Big 12) held the Cougars (3-5, 1-4 Big 12) to just 208 yards. The Cougars came into the game second in the Big 12 with 291 passing yards per game but managed just 95 against K-State.

Houston's Donovan Smith had trouble finding open receivers. He finished the day 13 of 28 for 88 yards.

“We're playing at an elite level,” defensive end Nate Matlack said. “That's what we've been trying to replicate the whole season. It feels really good to be playing at this level, shutting guys out or holding them to one score. That's our goal for the rest of the season.”

K-State head coach Chris Klieman had trouble finding a unit to single out in his postgame praise.

“It was a dominant performance,” Klieman said. "We didn't want to be a roller-coaster team. We want to get better every week. Houston is a good team. Our guys really played focused, physical football.

"I can't say enough about our defense. We're playing really well at all three levels of defense, which I'm excited about.

“Will Howard has played a lot of really good football here, but I told him I thought he played his best game today.”

The Wildcats rushed for 174 yards, led by DJ Giddens, who had 96 yards and two of the three rushing touchdowns. His 13-yard run late in the third quarter extended the lead to 35-0.

Avery Johnson threw a 7-yard touchdown pass to Seth Porter in the fourth quarter.

“We knew it would be challenging. It’s Big 12 football,” Houston coach Dana Holgorsen said. “I don’t think that’s who we are as a football team. Our opponent had a lot to do with that.

“That’s what Big 12 championship football looks like.”

K-State continued an impressive streak with a 12-play, 75-yard touchdown drive on its opening possession. Through eight games, the Wildcats have scored six touchdowns and had one field goal the first time it touched the ball. Howard passed to Garrett Oakley for a 12-yard score.

Howard then found Phillip Brooks on a 21-yard touchdown to put the Wildcats up 14-0 early in the second quarter, capping a 15-play, 89-yard drive.

Treshaun Ward punched it in from the 1-yard line to give K-State a 21-0 lead. After another three-and-out, Giddens scored on a 9-yard run to put the Wildcats up 28-0 late in the half.

In the first half, the Wildcats held a 277-83 advantage in total yards. Howard was 13 of 14 for 155 yards and two scores.

Houston: The Cougars need to stop spotting their opponents a big lead. For the second straight week, they fell behind by at least 21 points in the first half.

Kansas State: There is no quarterback controversy in Manhattan, and not because Johnson isn't capable. Howard has firm control of the offense, and he can run and pass with efficiency.

Houston: The Cougars travel to take on in-state rival Baylor next Saturday.

Kansas State: The Wildcats play at No. 7 Texas next Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698528013094.jpeg" alt="Kansas State running back DJ Giddens carries the ball in for a touchdown against Houston during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Manhattan, Kan., Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State running back DJ Giddens carries the ball in for a touchdown against Houston during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Manhattan, Kan., Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID SMALE Associated PressMANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Will Howard was 15-of-17 passing for 164 yards with two touchdowns as Kansas State defeated Houston 41-0 Saturday.It was the K-State defense, which has gone nine quarters without allowing a touchdown, that shined the brightest. K-State has outscored its opponents 103-3 since falling behind Texas Tech 21-17 on Oct. 14 before winning 38-21.“I feel like our confidence level is really high right now and it's coming at a good time,” Howard said. “The defense makes my job really easy. Those are two really good offenses (TCU and Houston) they just held to three points combined. When you have your defense playing like that, it's hard not to win games.”The Wildcats (6-2, 4-1 Big 12) held the Cougars (3-5, 1-4 Big 12) to just 208 yards. The Cougars came into the game second in the Big 12 with 291 passing yards per game but managed just 95 against K-State.Houston's Donovan Smith had trouble finding open receivers. He finished the day 13 of 28 for 88 yards.“We're playing at an elite level,” defensive end Nate Matlack said. “That's what we've been trying to replicate the whole season. It feels really good to be playing at this level, shutting guys out or holding them to one score. That's our goal for the rest of the season.”K-State head coach Chris Klieman had trouble finding a unit to single out in his postgame praise.“It was a dominant performance,” Klieman said. "We didn't want to be a roller-coaster team. We want to get better every week. Houston is a good team. Our guys really played focused, physical football."I can't say enough about our defense. We're playing really well at all three levels of defense, which I'm excited about.“Will Howard has played a lot of really good football here, but I told him I thought he played his best game today.”The Wildcats rushed for 174 yards, led by DJ Giddens, who had 96 yards and two of the three rushing touchdowns. His 13-yard run late in the third quarter extended the lead to 35-0.Avery Johnson threw a 7-yard touchdown pass to Seth Porter in the fourth quarter.It was total domination by the Wildcats.“We knew it would be challenging. It’s Big 12 football,” Houston coach Dana Holgorsen said. “I don’t think that’s who we are as a football team. Our opponent had a lot to do with that.“That’s what Big 12 championship football looks like.”K-State continued an impressive streak with a 12-play, 75-yard touchdown drive on its opening possession. Through eight games, the Wildcats have scored six touchdowns and had one field goal the first time it touched the ball. Howard passed to Garrett Oakley for a 12-yard score.Howard then found Phillip Brooks on a 21-yard touchdown to put the Wildcats up 14-0 early in the second quarter, capping a 15-play, 89-yard drive.Treshaun Ward punched it in from the 1-yard line to give K-State a 21-0 lead. After another three-and-out, Giddens scored on a 9-yard run to put the Wildcats up 28-0 late in the half.In the first half, the Wildcats held a 277-83 advantage in total yards. Howard was 13 of 14 for 155 yards and two scores.THE TAKEAWAYHouston: The Cougars need to stop spotting their opponents a big lead. For the second straight week, they fell behind by at least 21 points in the first half.Kansas State: There is no quarterback controversy in Manhattan, and not because Johnson isn't capable. Howard has firm control of the offense, and he can run and pass with efficiency.UP NEXTHouston: The Cougars travel to take on in-state rival Baylor next Saturday.Kansas State: The Wildcats play at No. 7 Texas next Saturday.

 🏈 Howard throws 2 TDs, Giddens runs for 2 in K-State win over Houston

Central Oklahoma (4-4, 3-4 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (6-2, 5-2 MIAA) Saturday, October 28 – 1 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Hall of Fame Game: Newest Tiger Sports Hall of Fame Inductees to be recognized at halftime. Promotion:&nbsp;Trunk or Treat – Kids that arrive in Halloween costumes receive FREE admission and can participate in Trunk or Treat at halftime.

Fort Hays State Football returns to the gridiron on Saturday afternoon when it takes on Central Oklahoma at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. The Tigers enter the game at 6-2 overall, 5-2 in the MIAA, while the Bronchos are 4-4 overall and 3-4 in the MIAA.

Fort Hays State is currently on a four-game win streak, which includes wins over Lincoln, Missouri Southern, Nebraska-Kearney, and Washburn. The Tigers have averaged 32.3 points per game in their last three conference contests. The Tigers are coming off a 31-28 win at Washburn last week. The Tigers have won three straight games at home and sit at 3-1 in both home and away contests this season.

Central Oklahoma is coming off a win over Northeastern State last week. The Bronchos have scored at least 17 points in all of their games this season and reached at least 20 in seven of eight contests. However, the Bronchos have yielded at least 20 points to all but one opponent this season with a season-low of 17 allowed to Lincoln.

Fort Hays State enters this contest with the best total defense in the MIAA at 262.5 yards per game. The Tigers also own the top pass defense in the conference, allowing just 153.1 yards per game through the air. FHSU ranks second in the MIAA in scoring defense, allowing 18 points per game.

Central Oklahoma has won the last two meetings with FHSU and holds a 9-6 advantage in the all-time series history. FHSU last defeated UCO in 2019 by a score of 35-7 in Edmond. FHSU holds a 5-3 advantage in eight previous MIAA meetings.

On offense, Jack Dawson&nbsp;has thrown for 1,990 yards and 19 touchdowns, while also rushing for three touchdowns. Trevor Watts&nbsp;has been his most frequent target with a team-high 48 receptions for 486 yards. Jayden Horace&nbsp;has 455 receiving yards and a team-high eight receiving touchdowns. Shane Watts&nbsp;is the team leader in rushing yards with 540, rushing for over 100 yards in each of the last two games. The Watts brothers have generated 1,234 all-purpose yards this season.

On defense, John Johnson&nbsp;continues to lead the Tigers in tackles with 57. Makel Williams&nbsp;ranks second in tackles with 50 and leads the team in interceptions with three. With 4.5 sacks over the last two weeks, Myles Menges&nbsp;has a team-leading 5.0 sacks. Parrish Terry&nbsp;leads the team in tackles for loss with 8.0.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698347677546.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsCentral Oklahoma (4-4, 3-4 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (6-2, 5-2 MIAA) Saturday, October 28 – 1 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis FieldRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Hall of Fame Game: Newest Tiger Sports Hall of Fame Inductees to be recognized at halftime. Promotion:&nbsp;Trunk or Treat – Kids that arrive in Halloween costumes receive FREE admission and can participate in Trunk or Treat at halftime.Fort Hays State Football returns to the gridiron on Saturday afternoon when it takes on Central Oklahoma at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. The Tigers enter the game at 6-2 overall, 5-2 in the MIAA, while the Bronchos are 4-4 overall and 3-4 in the MIAA.Fort Hays State is currently on a four-game win streak, which includes wins over Lincoln, Missouri Southern, Nebraska-Kearney, and Washburn. The Tigers have averaged 32.3 points per game in their last three conference contests. The Tigers are coming off a 31-28 win at Washburn last week. The Tigers have won three straight games at home and sit at 3-1 in both home and away contests this season.Central Oklahoma is coming off a win over Northeastern State last week. The Bronchos have scored at least 17 points in all of their games this season and reached at least 20 in seven of eight contests. However, the Bronchos have yielded at least 20 points to all but one opponent this season with a season-low of 17 allowed to Lincoln.Fort Hays State enters this contest with the best total defense in the MIAA at 262.5 yards per game. The Tigers also own the top pass defense in the conference, allowing just 153.1 yards per game through the air. FHSU ranks second in the MIAA in scoring defense, allowing 18 points per game.Central Oklahoma has won the last two meetings with FHSU and holds a 9-6 advantage in the all-time series history. FHSU last defeated UCO in 2019 by a score of 35-7 in Edmond. FHSU holds a 5-3 advantage in eight previous MIAA meetings.On offense, Jack Dawson&nbsp;has thrown for 1,990 yards and 19 touchdowns, while also rushing for three touchdowns. Trevor Watts&nbsp;has been his most frequent target with a team-high 48 receptions for 486 yards. Jayden Horace&nbsp;has 455 receiving yards and a team-high eight receiving touchdowns. Shane Watts&nbsp;is the team leader in rushing yards with 540, rushing for over 100 yards in each of the last two games. The Watts brothers have generated 1,234 all-purpose yards this season.On defense, John Johnson&nbsp;continues to lead the Tigers in tackles with 57. Makel Williams&nbsp;ranks second in tackles with 50 and leads the team in interceptions with three. With 4.5 sacks over the last two weeks, Myles Menges&nbsp;has a team-leading 5.0 sacks. Parrish Terry&nbsp;leads the team in tackles for loss with 8.0.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎙️ LISTEN - FHSU hosts Central Oklahoma Saturday in Hays

 Coyotes play Tabor in a Kansas Conference and Gene Bissell Division game at 1 p.m. Saturday at Wiens Stadium in Hillsboro.

The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network at&nbsp;www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan

Live Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a>

Radio coverage can be heard locally on&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">KINA 910 AM/107.5 FM</a>, and online at Salina Post.

The online stream is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>

Tyler Henry will have the call with pregame starting at Noon.

Kansas Wesleyan 6-2, 2-0 Bissell Division.Tabor 2-6, 1-1 Bissell Division

The Coyotes have won the last five games and six of the last seven against the Bluejays. KWU rolled to a 62-0 victory last season at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex. KWU has a 13-9 advantage in the series since the 2001 season.

The Coyotes ran their winning streak to five with a 17-14 victory over Saint Mary last Saturday on Homecoming and Family Weekend at JRI Stadium. They led 17-7 at halftime and hung on thanks to another stellar defensive effort.

Saint Mary had 238 yards total offense that included just seven yards rushing on 25 attempts. KWU also recorded five sacks in the game.&nbsp;Julian Urioste&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shaylan Lewis&nbsp;had seven tackles apiece – Lewis also notching two sacks.&nbsp;Ricco Moore&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ricardo Garcia&nbsp;had six tackles each.

The Coyotes finished with 423 total yards – 292 passing and 131 rushing. Freshman quarterback&nbsp;Byron McNair&nbsp;was sacked once.

McNair, making his second start of the season, was 14 of 22 passing for 292 yards, one touchdown and three first half interceptions. The touchdown was a 67-yard catch and run by&nbsp;Jacquante Pitts&nbsp;with 1:38 left in the first half.&nbsp;Nick Allsman&nbsp;scored KWU's first touchdown on a six-yard run early in the first quarter.&nbsp;Talon Cope&nbsp;had a 33-yard field early in the second quarter. Pitts finished with four receptions for 133 yards and fullback&nbsp;Artaveon Shavers&nbsp;five catches for 88 yards. Allsman had a team-best 47 yards rushing on 11 carries.

KWU led Tabor 41-0 at halftime last year.&nbsp;Richard Lara&nbsp;was 13 of 22 passing for 162 yards and two touchdowns while&nbsp;Mark Benjamin&nbsp;rushed for 84 yards and a score. Tabor had just 78 yards total offense.

The Bluejays lost to Avila 35-17 last Saturday in Hillsboro. The loss ended a two-game winning streak – victories over Bethel (31-21) and Sterling (24-10). Tabor lost to Bethany 28-17 September 9 in Lindsborg

&nbsp;The Bluejays average 17 points and 229 yards; they allow 27 points and 395.6 yards per game. Opponents are averaging 228 yards passing and 167.5 rushing

Sophomore William Green and freshman Tyson Dozhier have played quarterback. Green has completed 41.5 percent of his passes for 595 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions while Dozhier has completed 50.6 percent of his throws for 302 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions

Junior running back James Bolden is the primary offensive weapon with 641 yards rushing – 80.1 per game – and 13 receptions for 159 yards. He has scored three touchdowns, two receiving. Devin Jones in the leading receiver with 24 catches for 176 yards and four touchdowns

Senior linebacker Brooks Gardner, son of head coach Mike Gardner, has a team-best 75 tackles.

"We're not walking into this game thinking it's won. Coach Gardner does a great job over there and I know they'll be ready to go and ready to give us a test. We're going to have to come out hot and stay hot. Coach Gardner's offenses always do a good job running the ball. As long as we keep everything in front of us in the pass game, we'll be alright. And coach Gardner always has a couple of trick plays up his sleeve, when you play them you've got to be ready for anything. (Defensively) they use multiple fronts and move guys around. That will be a challenge for us this week."

The Coyotes travel to Ottawa for a 1 p.m. game Saturday against the Braves at Advent Health Field. It will be KWU's final road game of the regular season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698514757026.jpeg" alt="Gameday" />
 <figcaption>Gameday</figcaption>
 </figure> Coyotes play Tabor in a Kansas Conference and Gene Bissell Division game at 1 p.m. Saturday at Wiens Stadium in Hillsboro.<h2>LIVE COVERAGE</h2>The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network at&nbsp;www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyanLive Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a>Radio coverage can be heard locally on&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">KINA 910 AM/107.5 FM</a>, and online at Salina Post.The online stream is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>ADVERTISINGTyler Henry will have the call with pregame starting at Noon.<h2>RECORDS</h2>Kansas Wesleyan 6-2, 2-0 Bissell Division.Tabor 2-6, 1-1 Bissell Division<h2>THE SERIES</h2>The Coyotes have won the last five games and six of the last seven against the Bluejays. KWU rolled to a 62-0 victory last season at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex. KWU has a 13-9 advantage in the series since the 2001 season.<h2>KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE</h2>The Coyotes ran their winning streak to five with a 17-14 victory over Saint Mary last Saturday on Homecoming and Family Weekend at JRI Stadium. They led 17-7 at halftime and hung on thanks to another stellar defensive effort.Saint Mary had 238 yards total offense that included just seven yards rushing on 25 attempts. KWU also recorded five sacks in the game.&nbsp;Julian Urioste&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shaylan Lewis&nbsp;had seven tackles apiece – Lewis also notching two sacks.&nbsp;Ricco Moore&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ricardo Garcia&nbsp;had six tackles each.The Coyotes finished with 423 total yards – 292 passing and 131 rushing. Freshman quarterback&nbsp;Byron McNair&nbsp;was sacked once.McNair, making his second start of the season, was 14 of 22 passing for 292 yards, one touchdown and three first half interceptions. The touchdown was a 67-yard catch and run by&nbsp;Jacquante Pitts&nbsp;with 1:38 left in the first half.&nbsp;Nick Allsman&nbsp;scored KWU's first touchdown on a six-yard run early in the first quarter.&nbsp;Talon Cope&nbsp;had a 33-yard field early in the second quarter. Pitts finished with four receptions for 133 yards and fullback&nbsp;Artaveon Shavers&nbsp;five catches for 88 yards. Allsman had a team-best 47 yards rushing on 11 carries.KWU led Tabor 41-0 at halftime last year.&nbsp;Richard Lara&nbsp;was 13 of 22 passing for 162 yards and two touchdowns while&nbsp;Mark Benjamin&nbsp;rushed for 84 yards and a score. Tabor had just 78 yards total offense.<h2>TABOR AT A GLANCE</h2>The Bluejays lost to Avila 35-17 last Saturday in Hillsboro. The loss ended a two-game winning streak – victories over Bethel (31-21) and Sterling (24-10). Tabor lost to Bethany 28-17 September 9 in Lindsborg&nbsp;The Bluejays average 17 points and 229 yards; they allow 27 points and 395.6 yards per game. Opponents are averaging 228 yards passing and 167.5 rushingSophomore William Green and freshman Tyson Dozhier have played quarterback. Green has completed 41.5 percent of his passes for 595 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions while Dozhier has completed 50.6 percent of his throws for 302 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptionsJunior running back James Bolden is the primary offensive weapon with 641 yards rushing – 80.1 per game – and 13 receptions for 159 yards. He has scored three touchdowns, two receiving. Devin Jones in the leading receiver with 24 catches for 176 yards and four touchdownsSenior linebacker Brooks Gardner, son of head coach Mike Gardner, has a team-best 75 tackles.<h2>KWU COACH MATT MYERS</h2>"We're not walking into this game thinking it's won. Coach Gardner does a great job over there and I know they'll be ready to go and ready to give us a test. We're going to have to come out hot and stay hot. Coach Gardner's offenses always do a good job running the ball. As long as we keep everything in front of us in the pass game, we'll be alright. And coach Gardner always has a couple of trick plays up his sleeve, when you play them you've got to be ready for anything. (Defensively) they use multiple fronts and move guys around. That will be a challenge for us this week."<h2>NEXT WEEK</h2>The Coyotes travel to Ottawa for a 1 p.m. game Saturday against the Braves at Advent Health Field. It will be KWU's final road game of the regular season.

KWU Football heads to Hillsboro to take on Tabor

HIGHLAND, Kan. — No. 1 Hutchinson (7-0, 4-0) is on the road at Highland (6-3, 3-2) for a noon kickoff.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c427c872-e6eb-46d7-ae9d-063c41c083c3">The Dragons defeated Garden City last week 27-18.</a>

Today's game features the top two defenses in the nation. Hutchinson is No. 1 in points allowed (9.4 ppg) while Highland is No. 2 (10.4 ppg).

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697923585025.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HIGHLAND, Kan. — No. 1 Hutchinson (7-0, 4-0) is on the road at Highland (6-3, 3-2) for a noon kickoff.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c427c872-e6eb-46d7-ae9d-063c41c083c3">The Dragons defeated Garden City last week 27-18.</a>Today's game features the top two defenses in the nation. Hutchinson is No. 1 in points allowed (9.4 ppg) while Highland is No. 2 (10.4 ppg).<div><iframe title="SEG 1 at Highland" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=e49i6-14e1f3b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><iframe title="SEG 2 at Highland" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=g8j9r-14e1f56-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><iframe title="SEG 3 at Highland" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=dggnn-14e1f5a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎧 LISTEN: Countdown To Kickoff at Highland

By Hutchinson CC Sports Information

A battle of the nation's top two defenses takes place Saturday as the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team travels to play the Highland Scotties.

Kickoff at Porter Family Stadium in Highland is set for Noon. The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 11:30 a.m. with Countdown to Kickoff.

Hutchinson's defense is No. 1 in the nation in scoring defense allowing 9.4 points per game. Right behind the Dragons are the Scotties, who are No. 2 in scoring defense at 10.4 points per game allowed.

The Blue Dragons are No. 3 rushing defense (55.6 yards per game) and are third in quarterback sacks with 40).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/brown_daniel_a1x7">Daniel Brown</a>&nbsp;is the nation's leader in quarterback sacks with 13 sacks. Highland is No. 2 in the NJCAA in pass defense (127.6 yards per game) and is second in interceptions with 16. Malik Franklin is tied for first in the NJCAA with five interceptions.

Trips to Porter Family Stadium haven't always been kind to the Blue Dragons. Since 2006 - the first Highland win after 24 consecutive Hutchinson wins in the series - The Blue Dragons are 3-5 in games played in Highland. The last time the Dragons played in Highland was 2019 when the Scotties upset No. 1 Hutchinson 29-27.

Hutchinson (7-0, 4-0 KJCCC) comes off a 27-18 home victory last Saturday over Garden City. The Dragons survived four turnovers. The Blue Dragons held Garden City to 245 total yards and only 23 yards on the ground. The Dragons racked up a season-high-tying seven quarterback sacks.

Highland (6-3, 3-2 KJCCC) has won five games in a row after last week's 63-0 non-conference victory over Detroit Christian. The Scotties limited their opponent to 145 total yards and had four takeaways, including three interceptions.

The Dragons have won four games in a row over the Scotties, including a 31-7 victory one year ago at Gowans Stadium.

The Blue Dragons bid for their seventh 8-0 start to a season in program history. The Dragons have been 8-0 in 2 of the last 3 seasons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698487452518.jpeg" alt="Tre Richardson and the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons travel to play Highland at Noon Saturday in Highland. (McKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Tre Richardson and the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons travel to play Highland at Noon Saturday in Highland. (McKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698487618573.png" alt="Higland Game Info" />
 <figcaption>Higland Game Info</figcaption>
 </figure>By Hutchinson CC Sports InformationA battle of the nation's top two defenses takes place Saturday as the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team travels to play the Highland Scotties.Kickoff at Porter Family Stadium in Highland is set for Noon. The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 11:30 a.m. with Countdown to Kickoff.Hutchinson's defense is No. 1 in the nation in scoring defense allowing 9.4 points per game. Right behind the Dragons are the Scotties, who are No. 2 in scoring defense at 10.4 points per game allowed.The Blue Dragons are No. 3 rushing defense (55.6 yards per game) and are third in quarterback sacks with 40).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/brown_daniel_a1x7">Daniel Brown</a>&nbsp;is the nation's leader in quarterback sacks with 13 sacks. Highland is No. 2 in the NJCAA in pass defense (127.6 yards per game) and is second in interceptions with 16. Malik Franklin is tied for first in the NJCAA with five interceptions.Trips to Porter Family Stadium haven't always been kind to the Blue Dragons. Since 2006 - the first Highland win after 24 consecutive Hutchinson wins in the series - The Blue Dragons are 3-5 in games played in Highland. The last time the Dragons played in Highland was 2019 when the Scotties upset No. 1 Hutchinson 29-27.Hutchinson (7-0, 4-0 KJCCC) comes off a 27-18 home victory last Saturday over Garden City. The Dragons survived four turnovers. The Blue Dragons held Garden City to 245 total yards and only 23 yards on the ground. The Dragons racked up a season-high-tying seven quarterback sacks.Highland (6-3, 3-2 KJCCC) has won five games in a row after last week's 63-0 non-conference victory over Detroit Christian. The Scotties limited their opponent to 145 total yards and had four takeaways, including three interceptions.The Dragons have won four games in a row over the Scotties, including a 31-7 victory one year ago at Gowans Stadium.The Blue Dragons bid for their seventh 8-0 start to a season in program history. The Dragons have been 8-0 in 2 of the last 3 seasons.

🏈 Nation's top defenses set to do battle Saturday. HutchCC vs Highland

The No. 16-ranked Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team saw its season come to an end on Friday night in the opening round of the Region VI Tournament at the Salthawk Sports Complex.&nbsp;

The Butler Grizzlies scored in the ninth and 76th minute and the Blue Dragons missed a pair of great scoring chances late in the first half in a 2-0 quarterfinal loss.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons close the 2023 season 12-5-3. Butler (10-5-5) advances to the Region VI semifinals next Thursday at a site to be determined.&nbsp;

Trailing 1-0 after Sakiko Manabe’s goal in the ninth minute, the Blue Dragons had two tremendous opportunities to tie the game. &nbsp;

First Jayda Wyatt had a free kick from 20 yards out, but sailed her shot just over the cross bar. Then with about 1:30 left in the half, the Blue Dragons took a Butler turnover and had a breakaway, Katharina Marx crossed the ball to Maren Lackey, who couldn’t get a clean shot on the ball, which was uncontrolled right in front of the goal until Grizzly keeper Carla Apodaca dove on it.&nbsp;

Hutchinson and Butler had six shots each in the opening half, but the Dragons generated just two shots in the second half.&nbsp;

The Grizzlies scored their insurance goal in the 76th minute when Giselle Nash scored to make it 2-0. Emma Kolbe assisted on both Butler goals.&nbsp;

Blue Dragon freshman keeper Karsyn Slothower finished with eight saves. Slothower finished with 103 saves in her freshman season, second most to Ashley Perez’s 105 in 2005. Her 12 victories tie her with Eunice Figueroa, Caroline Howard and Taylor Camp for the fifth-most wins in single-season history.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698485055329.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationThe No. 16-ranked Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team saw its season come to an end on Friday night in the opening round of the Region VI Tournament at the Salthawk Sports Complex.&nbsp;The Butler Grizzlies scored in the ninth and 76th minute and the Blue Dragons missed a pair of great scoring chances late in the first half in a 2-0 quarterfinal loss.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons close the 2023 season 12-5-3. Butler (10-5-5) advances to the Region VI semifinals next Thursday at a site to be determined.&nbsp;Trailing 1-0 after Sakiko Manabe’s goal in the ninth minute, the Blue Dragons had two tremendous opportunities to tie the game. &nbsp;First Jayda Wyatt had a free kick from 20 yards out, but sailed her shot just over the cross bar. Then with about 1:30 left in the half, the Blue Dragons took a Butler turnover and had a breakaway, Katharina Marx crossed the ball to Maren Lackey, who couldn’t get a clean shot on the ball, which was uncontrolled right in front of the goal until Grizzly keeper Carla Apodaca dove on it.&nbsp;Hutchinson and Butler had six shots each in the opening half, but the Dragons generated just two shots in the second half.&nbsp;The Grizzlies scored their insurance goal in the 76th minute when Giselle Nash scored to make it 2-0. Emma Kolbe assisted on both Butler goals.&nbsp;Blue Dragon freshman keeper Karsyn Slothower finished with eight saves. Slothower finished with 103 saves in her freshman season, second most to Ashley Perez’s 105 in 2005. Her 12 victories tie her with Eunice Figueroa, Caroline Howard and Taylor Camp for the fifth-most wins in single-season history.&nbsp;

⚽️ Dragons fall in Region VI Tournament opener

IOLA – Five different runners posted personal-best times and the Hutchinson Community College women’s cross country team finished as 2023 Region VI Championship runner-up on Friday at Creekside Golf Course.&nbsp;

The No. 7-ranked Blue Dragons finished second on Friday with a team score of 58 points. Colby dominated the team championship with a score of 29 points.&nbsp;

This is the third-best regional finish for the Blue Dragons, who were Region VI champions in 2001 and 2022. The was Hutchinson’s 17th all-time Top 3 team finish in its regional championship history.&nbsp;

Freshman Laura Avila led the Blue Dragons with a sixth-place finish. Avila ran her best 5,000-meter time of 18:55.07. That’s the third-fastest Region VI time in Blue Dragon history and the fifth-fastest time in program history.&nbsp;

All-American Serenity Larson finished seventh in a time of 18:56.40.&nbsp;

Freshman Jordyn Picolet placed 13th with a time of 19:37.93, a PR for her and the 12th-best Region VI performance in team history.&nbsp;

Sophomore Taylor Hoskinson was the fourth Blue Dragon to finish, crossing the line in 15th place in a time of 19:56.07.&nbsp;

Sophomore Lauren Aden was the fifth Blue Dragon to count in the scoring. Aden had a PR time of 20:02.67 to finish 17th overall.&nbsp;

Sophomore Ellie VanZelfden placed 19th with a PR time of 20:12.92.&nbsp;

Freshman Abigail Grantham shattered her PR with a time of 20:49.22 to placed 27th.&nbsp;

Sophomore Daisy Orozco placed 34th in 22:14.25. Sophomore Gracie Lambert was 37th in 22:52.13&nbsp;

Freshman Chloe Inskeep ran a PR of 22:56.00 to place 38th.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698484865588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationIOLA – Five different runners posted personal-best times and the Hutchinson Community College women’s cross country team finished as 2023 Region VI Championship runner-up on Friday at Creekside Golf Course.&nbsp;The No. 7-ranked Blue Dragons finished second on Friday with a team score of 58 points. Colby dominated the team championship with a score of 29 points.&nbsp;This is the third-best regional finish for the Blue Dragons, who were Region VI champions in 2001 and 2022. The was Hutchinson’s 17th all-time Top 3 team finish in its regional championship history.&nbsp;Freshman Laura Avila led the Blue Dragons with a sixth-place finish. Avila ran her best 5,000-meter time of 18:55.07. That’s the third-fastest Region VI time in Blue Dragon history and the fifth-fastest time in program history.&nbsp;All-American Serenity Larson finished seventh in a time of 18:56.40.&nbsp;Freshman Jordyn Picolet placed 13th with a time of 19:37.93, a PR for her and the 12th-best Region VI performance in team history.&nbsp;Sophomore Taylor Hoskinson was the fourth Blue Dragon to finish, crossing the line in 15th place in a time of 19:56.07.&nbsp;Sophomore Lauren Aden was the fifth Blue Dragon to count in the scoring. Aden had a PR time of 20:02.67 to finish 17th overall.&nbsp;Sophomore Ellie VanZelfden placed 19th with a PR time of 20:12.92.&nbsp;Freshman Abigail Grantham shattered her PR with a time of 20:49.22 to placed 27th.&nbsp;Sophomore Daisy Orozco placed 34th in 22:14.25. Sophomore Gracie Lambert was 37th in 22:52.13&nbsp;Freshman Chloe Inskeep ran a PR of 22:56.00 to place 38th.&nbsp;

👟 Dragon women runners-up at Region VI

IOLA – Led by a pair of PRs from freshmen Leo LeGrand and David Ultreras, the Hutchinson Community College men’s cross country team earned a fifth-place finish on Friday at the Region VI Championships at Cedarbrook Golf Course.&nbsp;

Besieged by injuries throughout the season, the Blue Dragon posted a team score for the first time this season, finishing fifth in the Division I Region VI standings with 112 points.&nbsp;

Defending national champion Colby ran away with the team championship, scoring 24 points. Butler was second with 72 points.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons were led by sophomore Christian Darrah, who was one of two Blue Dragons to place in the individual Top 20. Darrah finished 12th in Division I with a time of 26 minutes, 11.48 seconds.&nbsp;

LeGrand was the other Top 2- finisher for Hutchinson, finishing 15th with a personal-record time of 26:37.55.&nbsp;

Ultreras was the third Blue Dragon to finish, placing 23rd in a PR time of 27:03.85&nbsp;

Keyshawn Garcia ran in his first race of the season on Friday. Garcia placed 26th with a time of 27:13.41.&nbsp;

Sophomore Evan Ativia was 36th with a time of 23:33.85&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698484551116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationIOLA – Led by a pair of PRs from freshmen Leo LeGrand and David Ultreras, the Hutchinson Community College men’s cross country team earned a fifth-place finish on Friday at the Region VI Championships at Cedarbrook Golf Course.&nbsp;Besieged by injuries throughout the season, the Blue Dragon posted a team score for the first time this season, finishing fifth in the Division I Region VI standings with 112 points.&nbsp;Defending national champion Colby ran away with the team championship, scoring 24 points. Butler was second with 72 points.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons were led by sophomore Christian Darrah, who was one of two Blue Dragons to place in the individual Top 20. Darrah finished 12th in Division I with a time of 26 minutes, 11.48 seconds.&nbsp;LeGrand was the other Top 2- finisher for Hutchinson, finishing 15th with a personal-record time of 26:37.55.&nbsp;Ultreras was the third Blue Dragon to finish, placing 23rd in a PR time of 27:03.85&nbsp;Keyshawn Garcia ran in his first race of the season on Friday. Garcia placed 26th with a time of 27:13.41.&nbsp;Sophomore Evan Ativia was 36th with a time of 23:33.85&nbsp;

👟 Dragons fifth at Region VI

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The Hutchinson Salthawks advanced to the round of 16 in the class 5A state playoffs, knocking off Wichita West, 52-28 on Friday at Gowans Stadium.

Hutchinson (7-2) held a 52-6 lead going in to the fourth quarter before Wichita West (3-6) scored 22 unanswered points on the Salthawks reserves.

The Salthawks rushed for six touchdowns in the first round victory.

Robert Hunter started the scoring for the Salthawks on its second drive of the game, as the sophomore quarterback found the end zone from 32 yards out with 7:06 to play in the first quarter. Hunter added a 24-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, as well to extend the Hutchinson lead.

Zion Burgess scored three rushing scores in the win, a 14-yard run in the first quarter, and 50-yard and 29-yard runs in the third period.

Tayson Runyon connected on a 25-yard field goal with 3:23 left in the first quarter to give the Salthawks a 17-6 lead at that point.

Devon Spiller also joined in on the list of Salthawks with a touchdown, scoring on an 11-yard run midway through the second quarter.

The Salthawks also scored on a special teams play, as Jax Heneha blocked a West punt attempt into the end zone, where Chris Lachenmaier picked up the ball for a touchdown.

Hutchinson will travel to Maize South (7-2) on Friday for the second round of the KSHSAA class 5A playoffs. The Salthawks defeated the Mavericks, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/9fb721b1-30d9-4e47-9c3b-b084625e4391">28-23 on Sept. 15</a>. The game will kick off at 7 p.m. from Maize South High School.&nbsp;

The complete class 5A bracket is posted <a href="https://kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Football/5A.cfm?Activity=1">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698465437353.jpeg" alt="Zion Burgess scoring on his third rushing touchdown of the evening. (Sean Boston/Hutch Post)" />
 <figcaption>Zion Burgess scoring on his third rushing touchdown of the evening. (Sean Boston/Hutch Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The Hutchinson Salthawks advanced to the round of 16 in the class 5A state playoffs, knocking off Wichita West, 52-28 on Friday at Gowans Stadium.Hutchinson (7-2) held a 52-6 lead going in to the fourth quarter before Wichita West (3-6) scored 22 unanswered points on the Salthawks reserves.The Salthawks rushed for six touchdowns in the first round victory.Robert Hunter started the scoring for the Salthawks on its second drive of the game, as the sophomore quarterback found the end zone from 32 yards out with 7:06 to play in the first quarter. Hunter added a 24-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, as well to extend the Hutchinson lead.Zion Burgess scored three rushing scores in the win, a 14-yard run in the first quarter, and 50-yard and 29-yard runs in the third period.Tayson Runyon connected on a 25-yard field goal with 3:23 left in the first quarter to give the Salthawks a 17-6 lead at that point.Devon Spiller also joined in on the list of Salthawks with a touchdown, scoring on an 11-yard run midway through the second quarter.The Salthawks also scored on a special teams play, as Jax Heneha blocked a West punt attempt into the end zone, where Chris Lachenmaier picked up the ball for a touchdown.Hutchinson will travel to Maize South (7-2) on Friday for the second round of the KSHSAA class 5A playoffs. The Salthawks defeated the Mavericks, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/9fb721b1-30d9-4e47-9c3b-b084625e4391">28-23 on Sept. 15</a>. The game will kick off at 7 p.m. from Maize South High School.&nbsp;The complete class 5A bracket is posted <a href="https://kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Football/5A.cfm?Activity=1">here</a>.

🏈 Salthawks run past Wichita West, advance in 5A playoffs

AP Sports Summary for October 28th, 2023.

Arizona Diamondbacks take series of slights into surprise World Series against Texas Rangers

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Overlooked by oddsmakers and angered by analysts, the Arizona Diamondbacks find themselves in a Surprise Series against the also unexpected Texas Rangers. But the mindsets couldn't be more different ahead of Friday night's opener in Major League Baseball's third all-wild card title matchup. The Diamondbacks listen to all the slights and keep track of them. The Rangers say they ignore all the outside chatter. Zac Gallen starts the opener for the Diamondbacks and Nathan Eovaldi will be on the mound for the Rangers.

García was let go by 2 teams, including the Rangers, the team he's led to the World Series

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Adolis García has gone from being twice designated for assignment to becoming a record-setting AL Championship Series MVP who is now in the World Series. And all that came after the 30-year-old slugger defected from Cuba in hopes of playing in the big leagues. He is in the World Series with the Texas Rangers, the second team that dropped him from their roster. García says it's been a long journey, and was a touch decision at the time, but definitely worth it. He's in his third season with Texas, which hosts Game 1 of the World Series against Arizona on Friday night.

Wembanyama makes tying basket in regulation, then earns his first NBA win as Spurs top Rockets in OT

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Victor Wembanyama made the tying basket with 20 seconds left in regulation, the opening basket in overtime and finished with 21 points and 12 rebounds in his first NBA victory, helping the San Antonio Spurs beat the Houston Rockets 126-122. Wembanyama had 16 points, eight rebounds and three blocks in the second half and overtime Friday. Devin Vassell scored 25 points and Keldon Johnson added 20 for the Spurs, who lost to Dallas on Wednesday in Wembanyama's highly anticipated debut and trailed late in this one before the No. 1 pick helped them pull it out.

Analysis: NFL teams shouldn't let one game affect their trade deadline approach

Some NFL teams still have to make a decision on how to approach Tuesday's trade deadline. Contenders are buyers. Winning teams will try to add a player who can improve a playoff run. Pretenders are sellers. Teams at the bottom of the standings will move veterans or players in the final year of a contract to add draft picks and build for the future. It's the in-between clubs, those in the middle of the pack, that have to figure out their plans. How those teams fare this weekend can impact their decision but one game shouldn't be the determining factor.

Column: From Senators II to Rangers, this franchise is long overdue for a championship

They are The Franchise Formerly Known as the Second Version of the Washington Senators. If there's ever been a team that's due for a championship, it's the Texas Rangers. From their beginnings as a hastily assembled replacement team for the nation's capital back in 1961, they've been through a whole lot of losing seasons and one excruciatingly close-but-no-cigar call. In fact, the Senators-turned-Rangers have labored longer than any franchise in America's four major sports leagues without a championship on their resume. They've got a chance to change that ignominious distinction when they face the Arizona Diamondbacks in the World Series.

Rob Manfred says it would be difficult to pause MLB's season for the 2028 LA Olympics

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Bryce Harper wants big leaguers to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred says pausing the regular season to make that happen would be difficult. Baseball and softball were restored to the 2028 Games after being dropped for next year's Paris Olympics. MLB did not let players on active big league rosters participate in 2000, 2004 and 2008, and the sport was dropped for 2012 and 2016.

Coyotes' Travis Dermott on using Pride tape, forcing NHL's hand: 'Had to be done'

Arizona defenseman Travis Dermott recently defied an NHL edict on supporting social causes before games. The NHL announced in June that teams would no longer wear themed jerseys, which include Pride nights, Hockey Fights Cancer and military appreciation celebrations. It also banned tape on sticks. But Dermott used Pride tape on his hockey stick in support of the LGBTQ community in Arizona's home opener against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday. He said he wasn't sure of the reactions. But the NHL soon rescinded its ban on players using stick tape to support social causes.

Dusty Baker Appreciation: An example of care and humility on the baseball diamond and far beyond

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Dusty Baker's bright smile, genuine care and love for people will live on in his remarkable baseball legacy as much as that signature toothpick, his baseball wisdom and winning into his mid-70s. There was a stretch when Baker wasn't sure he'd get this final shot in Houston, where he has retired after the Astros lost Game 7 of the AL Championship Series to the rival Texas Rangers. Still, he kept fighting back to walk away now, all these years later, on his own terms.

Packers searching for answers regarding their offense's frequent first-half struggles

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — The Green Bay Packers are like a finicky old car that needs several hits to the ignition before finally making some progress. Green Bay has been outscored 63-6 in the first half of its last four games and hasn't scored a touchdown before halftime in any of them. That helps explain why the Packers carry a three-game skid into Sunday's home matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. The Packers are doing just fine after halftime. They lead the NFL in second-half points per game but rank last in first-half scoring.

Giants Daniel Jones has been ruled out for the third straight week; Taylor faces Jets

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will miss his third straight game with a neck injury, and Tyrod Taylor will start on Sunday in the MetLife Stadium bragging rights game against the Jets. Giants coach Brian Daboll said Friday that Jones and backup running back Gary Brightwell (hamstring) will be out for Sunday's game. Doctors have not cleared Jones for contract since he was hurt on a blindside sack against Miami on Oct. 8. Jones has repeatedly said he is getting better, and he has been allowed to throw at practice. He signed a four-year, $160 million contract extension in March.

Here are the latest scores from today's sports events:

		Golden State	75	Sacramento	70	(in progress)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688383699667.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Saturday Morning, October 28th, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Saturday Morning, October 28th, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for October 28th, 2023.Arizona Diamondbacks take series of slights into surprise World Series against Texas RangersARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Overlooked by oddsmakers and angered by analysts, the Arizona Diamondbacks find themselves in a Surprise Series against the also unexpected Texas Rangers. But the mindsets couldn't be more different ahead of Friday night's opener in Major League Baseball's third all-wild card title matchup. The Diamondbacks listen to all the slights and keep track of them. The Rangers say they ignore all the outside chatter. Zac Gallen starts the opener for the Diamondbacks and Nathan Eovaldi will be on the mound for the Rangers.García was let go by 2 teams, including the Rangers, the team he's led to the World SeriesARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Adolis García has gone from being twice designated for assignment to becoming a record-setting AL Championship Series MVP who is now in the World Series. And all that came after the 30-year-old slugger defected from Cuba in hopes of playing in the big leagues. He is in the World Series with the Texas Rangers, the second team that dropped him from their roster. García says it's been a long journey, and was a touch decision at the time, but definitely worth it. He's in his third season with Texas, which hosts Game 1 of the World Series against Arizona on Friday night.Wembanyama makes tying basket in regulation, then earns his first NBA win as Spurs top Rockets in OTSAN ANTONIO (AP) — Victor Wembanyama made the tying basket with 20 seconds left in regulation, the opening basket in overtime and finished with 21 points and 12 rebounds in his first NBA victory, helping the San Antonio Spurs beat the Houston Rockets 126-122. Wembanyama had 16 points, eight rebounds and three blocks in the second half and overtime Friday. Devin Vassell scored 25 points and Keldon Johnson added 20 for the Spurs, who lost to Dallas on Wednesday in Wembanyama's highly anticipated debut and trailed late in this one before the No. 1 pick helped them pull it out.Analysis: NFL teams shouldn't let one game affect their trade deadline approachSome NFL teams still have to make a decision on how to approach Tuesday's trade deadline. Contenders are buyers. Winning teams will try to add a player who can improve a playoff run. Pretenders are sellers. Teams at the bottom of the standings will move veterans or players in the final year of a contract to add draft picks and build for the future. It's the in-between clubs, those in the middle of the pack, that have to figure out their plans. How those teams fare this weekend can impact their decision but one game shouldn't be the determining factor.Column: From Senators II to Rangers, this franchise is long overdue for a championshipThey are The Franchise Formerly Known as the Second Version of the Washington Senators. If there's ever been a team that's due for a championship, it's the Texas Rangers. From their beginnings as a hastily assembled replacement team for the nation's capital back in 1961, they've been through a whole lot of losing seasons and one excruciatingly close-but-no-cigar call. In fact, the Senators-turned-Rangers have labored longer than any franchise in America's four major sports leagues without a championship on their resume. They've got a chance to change that ignominious distinction when they face the Arizona Diamondbacks in the World Series.Rob Manfred says it would be difficult to pause MLB's season for the 2028 LA OlympicsARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Bryce Harper wants big leaguers to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred says pausing the regular season to make that happen would be difficult. Baseball and softball were restored to the 2028 Games after being dropped for next year's Paris Olympics. MLB did not let players on active big league rosters participate in 2000, 2004 and 2008, and the sport was dropped for 2012 and 2016.Coyotes' Travis Dermott on using Pride tape, forcing NHL's hand: 'Had to be done'Arizona defenseman Travis Dermott recently defied an NHL edict on supporting social causes before games. The NHL announced in June that teams would no longer wear themed jerseys, which include Pride nights, Hockey Fights Cancer and military appreciation celebrations. It also banned tape on sticks. But Dermott used Pride tape on his hockey stick in support of the LGBTQ community in Arizona's home opener against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday. He said he wasn't sure of the reactions. But the NHL soon rescinded its ban on players using stick tape to support social causes.Dusty Baker Appreciation: An example of care and humility on the baseball diamond and far beyondSAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Dusty Baker's bright smile, genuine care and love for people will live on in his remarkable baseball legacy as much as that signature toothpick, his baseball wisdom and winning into his mid-70s. There was a stretch when Baker wasn't sure he'd get this final shot in Houston, where he has retired after the Astros lost Game 7 of the AL Championship Series to the rival Texas Rangers. Still, he kept fighting back to walk away now, all these years later, on his own terms.Packers searching for answers regarding their offense's frequent first-half strugglesGREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — The Green Bay Packers are like a finicky old car that needs several hits to the ignition before finally making some progress. Green Bay has been outscored 63-6 in the first half of its last four games and hasn't scored a touchdown before halftime in any of them. That helps explain why the Packers carry a three-game skid into Sunday's home matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. The Packers are doing just fine after halftime. They lead the NFL in second-half points per game but rank last in first-half scoring.Giants Daniel Jones has been ruled out for the third straight week; Taylor faces JetsEAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will miss his third straight game with a neck injury, and Tyrod Taylor will start on Sunday in the MetLife Stadium bragging rights game against the Jets. Giants coach Brian Daboll said Friday that Jones and backup running back Gary Brightwell (hamstring) will be out for Sunday's game. Doctors have not cleared Jones for contract since he was hurt on a blindside sack against Miami on Oct. 8. Jones has repeatedly said he is getting better, and he has been allowed to throw at practice. He signed a four-year, $160 million contract extension in March.AP-ScorecardHere are the latest scores from today's sports events:___MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL PLAYOFFS		Arizona	5	Texas	5	(Bot 9th)___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Utah	99	L.A. Clippers	95	(in progress)		Golden State	75	Sacramento	70	(in progress)		Orlando	70	Portland	60	(in progress)Final	Denver	108	Memphis	104	Final	Detroit	111	Charlotte	99	Final	New York	126	Atlanta	120	Final	Boston	119	Miami	111	Final	Oklahoma City	108	Cleveland	105	Final OT	San Antonio	126	Houston	122	Final	Dallas	125	Brooklyn	120	Final OT	Chicago	104	Toronto	103	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Arizona	4	Los Angeles	1	(2nd Period)		Vancouver	4	St. Louis	0	(2nd Period)Final OT	Chicago	4	Vegas	3	Final	New Jersey	5	Buffalo	4	Final	Carolina	3	San Jose	0	Final SO	Washington	3	Minnesota	2	___

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Saturday

Maize South 41, Wichita Bishop Carroll 28

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693517742505.png" alt="Eagle Media HS Football Scoreboard for Friday, October 27th" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Media HS Football Scoreboard for Friday, October 27th</figcaption>
 </figure>Friday's ScoresThe Associated PressPREP FOOTBALL=KSHSAA State Tournament=First Round=Class 6A=Blue Valley 40, Olathe West 28Derby 56, Topeka 7Gardner-Edgerton 45, BV North 0Junction City 27, Wichita Heights 18Lawrence 23, Dodge City 20Lawrence Free State 42, Garden City 21Manhattan 69, Wichita Southeast 14Olathe South 49, SM South 20SM Northwest 17, SM East 14Washburn Rural 48, Wichita North 7Wichita Northwest 54, Wichita Campus 14Class 5A=BV Southwest 56, Emporia 13DeSoto 57, KC Turner 6Goddard-Eisenhower 35, Andover 6Great Bend 38, Salina Central 24Hays 31, Valley Center 14Highland Park 55, KC Harmon 7Hutchinson 52, Wichita West 28Kapaun Mount Carmel 63, Salina South 7Lansing 19, Pittsburg 14Liberal 44, Newton 0Maize South 41, Wichita Bishop Carroll 28Mill Valley 63, Topeka West 6Shawnee Heights 68, KC Sumner 0Spring Hill 63, Leavenworth 14Topeka Seaman 62, KC Washington 12Class 4A=Abilene 38, Arkansas City 12Andover Central 41, Independence 20Atchison 56, Bonner Springs 22Basehor-Linwood 35, Paola 14Bishop Miege 21, St. James Academy 17Buhler 62, Ulysses 16Chanute 46, KC Schlagle 10Coffeyville 60, Augusta 50Eudora 28, KC Piper 14Louisburg 47, Labette County 0McPherson 41, Mulvane 7Rose Hill 20, Winfield 13St. Thomas Aquinas 41, Fort Scott 14Tonganoxie 45, Ottawa 10Wamego 58, El Dorado 14Wellington 41, Circle 34Class 3A=Andale 46, Hugoton 0Burlington 38, Columbus 14Chapman 18, Rock Creek 4Cheney 50, Colby 0Clay Center 49, Clearwater 0Frontenac 42, Girard 20Hesston 20, Marysville 17Holcomb 35, Pratt 20Holton 60, KC Bishop Ward 19Parsons 20, Iola 0Prairie View 48, Baxter Springs 13Santa Fe Trail 56, Royal Valley 40Scott City 51, Smoky Valley 14Topeka Hayden 49, Baldwin 0Wellsville 48, Perry-Lecompton 6Wichita Collegiate 49, Concordia 7Class 2A=Beloit 50, Lakin 0Council Grove 32, Caney Valley, Okla. 14Ellsworth 42, Haven 0Garden Plain 21, Halstead 7Hays-TMP-Marian 22, Larned 0Hoisington 46, Phillipsburg 8Kingman 31, Hillsboro 6Norton 64, Cimarron 34Riley County 28, Rossville 7Silver Lake 58, Minneapolis 7Southeast Saline 56, Chaparral 7Class 1A=Conway Springs 56, Stanton County 8Hutchinson Trinity 25, Plainville 6Jackson Heights 36, Mission Valley 12Jefferson North 32, Troy 16Marion 54, Wabaunsee 14Medicine Lodge 32, Oakley 0Oskaloosa 50, Centralia 14Sterling 54, Ellis 268-Player, Div. I=Cair Paravel 62, Sedan 12Ell-Saline 48, Quinter 0Lyndon 55, Cedar Vale-Dexter 08-Player, Div. II=Canton-Galva 56, Crest 86-Player=Greeley County 20, Moscow 19Pawnee Heights 70, Southern Coffey 20

🏈 Eagle Media Scoreboard Playoff scores from Friday



CLASS 4A At The Hutchinson Sports Arena&nbsp;

EUDORA SWEEPS SUB-STATE COMPETITION TO REACH STATE FOR 1ST TIME IN 4 YEARS

Eudora overcame Frontier League rival Baldwin in the sub-state final, following a victory over Fort Scott earlier in the day. Both wins were sweeps for the Cardinals.

In the final, Eudora rolled 25-11 in the first set before the Bulldogs gave them a better fight in the second. But the Cardinals maintained a three-point advantage late in the set as the team ultimately clinched the victory with a 25-22 win.

Eudora head coach Brooke Hopper said the key to taking down Baldwin was the team’s mental game and first ball opportunities.

“We knew we would need to move on quickly from mistakes and push through together,”Hopper said. 

“With a team like Baldwin, if you choose to dwell on a mistake they will quickly put another ball back at you keeping the momentum. We took advantage of first ball opportunities pretty well the whole game.”

The Cardinals are led by a strong contingent of upperclassmen. Senior Rayah Foltz and junior Adalyn Hemphill lead the team in kills with 316 and 249 respectively. Senior Ellie Suber is tasked with setting those two up as she leads the team with 710 assists.

That trio also gets the team a lot of points via serve. Suber leads the way with 48 aces, followed by Hemphill at 46 and Foltz at 34. All three also have at least 130 digs, led by Foltz at 289.

While Foltz and Hemphill get most of the scores, senior Madison Karten and junior Indigo Pruitt are tasked with not allowing other teams to score against the Cardinals. 

Karten and Pruitt are tied for the team lead on blocks with 56 blocks.Although those players have often led the way, Hopper said the team has succeeded because they’ve all played selflessly this season.

“We have a special group that doesn’t care who gets the credit,” Hopper said. “They understand everyone plays a role and each role is just as important as the next. They love being together and playing for something bigger than themselves. Unity is strength.”

Eudora enters state with a 23-8 record and on a nine-match win streak. This is also Eudora Hopper’s first year as the team’s head coach.

“I feel such pride in this team being able to play to this level,” Hopper said. “I think making it to state this year is a true testament of the leadership within our program. You can have a world class coach, but until the players buy in and do the work, it won’t matter.

“We truly have a special group here and they intend to fight to leave a legacy at Eudora High School to continue to build on.”

The Cardinals will have a tough road to reaching the state semifinals. They will have last year’s 4A state champion and state runner-up in the same pool. Eudora will battle Andale first before facing reigning champs Bishop Miege. 

It doesn't get easier for the team’s third match, where Eudora will face the No. 1 seed Clearwater.

Eudora is looking for its first state title since 2006.



By: KSHSAA COVERED STAFF, Bret Maycock

CLASS 4A At The Hutchinson Sports Arena&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://kshsaacovered.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_id=0&amp;image_path=/images/2023/10/26/Eudora_Cardinals_volleyball.jpeg" alt="Eudora senior Madison Karten hits the ball against Baldwin in the sub-state final. | Jack Denebeim/Eudora Times" />
 <figcaption>Eudora senior Madison Karten hits the ball against Baldwin in the sub-state final. | Jack Denebeim/Eudora Times</figcaption>
 </figure>EUDORA SWEEPS SUB-STATE COMPETITION TO REACH STATE FOR 1ST TIME IN 4 YEARSEudora overcame Frontier League rival Baldwin in the sub-state final, following a victory over Fort Scott earlier in the day. Both wins were sweeps for the Cardinals.In the final, Eudora rolled 25-11 in the first set before the Bulldogs gave them a better fight in the second. But the Cardinals maintained a three-point advantage late in the set as the team ultimately clinched the victory with a 25-22 win.Eudora head coach Brooke Hopper said the key to taking down Baldwin was the team’s mental game and first ball opportunities.“We knew we would need to move on quickly from mistakes and push through together,”Hopper said. “With a team like Baldwin, if you choose to dwell on a mistake they will quickly put another ball back at you keeping the momentum. We took advantage of first ball opportunities pretty well the whole game.”The Cardinals are led by a strong contingent of upperclassmen. Senior Rayah Foltz and junior Adalyn Hemphill lead the team in kills with 316 and 249 respectively. Senior Ellie Suber is tasked with setting those two up as she leads the team with 710 assists.That trio also gets the team a lot of points via serve. Suber leads the way with 48 aces, followed by Hemphill at 46 and Foltz at 34. All three also have at least 130 digs, led by Foltz at 289.While Foltz and Hemphill get most of the scores, senior Madison Karten and junior Indigo Pruitt are tasked with not allowing other teams to score against the Cardinals. Karten and Pruitt are tied for the team lead on blocks with 56 blocks.Although those players have often led the way, Hopper said the team has succeeded because they’ve all played selflessly this season.“We have a special group that doesn’t care who gets the credit,” Hopper said. “They understand everyone plays a role and each role is just as important as the next. They love being together and playing for something bigger than themselves. Unity is strength.”Eudora enters state with a 23-8 record and on a nine-match win streak. This is also Eudora Hopper’s first year as the team’s head coach.“I feel such pride in this team being able to play to this level,” Hopper said. “I think making it to state this year is a true testament of the leadership within our program. You can have a world class coach, but until the players buy in and do the work, it won’t matter.“We truly have a special group here and they intend to fight to leave a legacy at Eudora High School to continue to build on.”The Cardinals will have a tough road to reaching the state semifinals. They will have last year’s 4A state champion and state runner-up in the same pool. Eudora will battle Andale first before facing reigning champs Bishop Miege. It doesn't get easier for the team’s third match, where Eudora will face the No. 1 seed Clearwater.Eudora is looking for its first state title since 2006.

🏐 KSHSAA Covered: Class 4A Storyline



CLASS 3A At the Hutchinson Sports Arena&nbsp;

NEODESHA OR KNEE-ODESHA? BLUESTREAKS PERSEVERE THROUGH INJURIES

When Neodesha coach Jodi Stover’s daughter, Samantha, tore her ACL in a July basketball tournament, the Bluestreaks were at the doorstep of a new season without their primary setter.

Neodesha had a secondary option in versatile junior Prayer Roebuck, but needed someone who could also deliver the ball to Roebuck at the net for her left-handed swings from the right side.

Stover’s answer? A sophomore with no experience at the position and on the back end of her own ACL recovery, Kimmy Combs.

“Finding a varsity setter is really tough,” said Stover, whose team has matched Neodesha’s program-record 36 victories from a year ago and earned its first state tournament berth since 2015. 

“That’s a really hard position just to push someone into. Kimmy, at the time, wasn’t even cleared until the first week of August to start coming back.”

Combs, who went down on the first play of Neodesha’s seventh match last season, had some early reservations and ensuing growing pains at setter. But she has evolved into the role, producing 453 assists and allowing Roebuck to flourish as the Bluestreaks’ go-to hitter.

“She really struggled with it at the beginning, especially with Prayer,” Stover said. 

“Prayer’s a left-hander and she likes it in a specific spot. Prayer likes to go fast and there was a lot of frustration – mainly Kimmy putting pressure on herself and not being where she wanted to be.

“But she has done amazing. The fact that she could jump in there and do that at the varsity level just amazes me still.”

Neodesha, hindered by Tri-Valley League rivals Eureka and Humboldt in its quest to reach state in recent seasons, faced neither in last week’s Fredonia sub-state. After Anderson County knocked off Humboldt in the semifinals, the Bluestreaks rolled past Anderson County 25-12, 25-10 in the title match.

The 5-foot-10 Roebuck, who leads Neodesha this season with 462 kills, recorded the 1,000th&nbsp;of her career during the tournament.

“Prayer has really stepped up this year,” Stover said. “She has really tried to take it on her shoulders and do a lot of things. I feel bad for her sometimes because she puts a lot of pressure on herself. When things don’t go her way, she’s really hard on herself, but I think she’s done a great job this year.”

Underclassmen handle the bulk of Neodesha’s playing time. Roebuck has added 303 assists and 42 service aces. In addition to her setting role, Combs has 269 kills and 229 digs with 72 aces. Sophomore libero Dalia Johnson and junior outside hitter/defensive specialist Darcie Dyke are part of a lineup that will seek its first state victories for Stover, Neodesha’s 13th&nbsp;year head coach who earned her 300th&nbsp;victory this season.

Neodesha will open 3A state pool play as the No. 2 seed Friday with matches against Riverton, Silver Lake and Cheney.

“This team’s best quality is they don’t panic,” Stover said. 

“Their composure is very good. There’s been several times that we’ve started out slow or lost the first set.

“They’re confident in themselves and they know they can come back and turn things around. I think that’s something that’s very special about them. They never count themselves out.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

RIVERTON TURNS REBUILD INTO RELOAD AS RAMS MAKES 4TH STRAIGHT STATE APPEARANCE

Riverton volleyball had not won a league title in 30 years before Rebecca Lipasek came to town in 2017.

With Class of 2023 players Jacy Thomasson and Morgan Compton leading the way, the Rams paired three straight state appearances with ending that league title drought.

But it was hard to picture Riverton returning to state without those two players this season.

And yet, the Rams found a way to turn a No. 3 seed into a fourth straight trip to state anyway.

Riverton survived a three-set thriller against Galena to open the postseason before sweeping Girard and Frontenac to win sub-state for the fourth straight year.

The Rams may have lost the firepower of Thomasson and the perfect timing that she had with Compton and 2021 grad Emma Berry at setter before that.

But the same development program under Lipasek and her daughter Kylie as Riverton’s middle school volleyball coach helped create a strong foundation that was just as important to Riverton’s postseason success as all-state standouts.

Part of that foundation has been this team’s ability to play elite defense without Thomasson out there as a killing machine.“If we can slow down our opponent’s top attackers, we feel like we have a shot at winning,” 

Lipasek said. “Our serve receive has been strong in the latter part of the season, which has helped our new setters.”

Junior Maddie Darnaby and junior Lexie Mallatt have 59 and 55 aces respectively, followed by senior EJ Wells at 50 and seniors Alivia Parker at 47.Wells and Parker have led the Rams in kills this season. Wells leads the team with 349 kills, and total blocks with 69, while Parker added another 190. Junior Maddie Darnaby contributed another 139 kills.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698395489826.jpeg" alt="KSHSAA Class 3A Storyline" />
 <figcaption>KSHSAA Class 3A Storyline</figcaption>
 </figure>By: KSHSAA COVERED STAFF, Bret Maycock

CLASS 3A At the Hutchinson Sports Arena&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://kshsaacovered.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_id=14&amp;image_path=/images/2023/10/23/Neodesha_s_Prayer_Roebuck.jpg" alt="Neodesha junior Prayer Roebuck recorded her 1,000th career kill during the Bluestreaks' sub-state title run." />
 <figcaption>Neodesha junior Prayer Roebuck recorded her 1,000th career kill during the Bluestreaks' sub-state title run.</figcaption>
 </figure>NEODESHA OR KNEE-ODESHA? BLUESTREAKS PERSEVERE THROUGH INJURIESWhen Neodesha coach Jodi Stover’s daughter, Samantha, tore her ACL in a July basketball tournament, the Bluestreaks were at the doorstep of a new season without their primary setter.Neodesha had a secondary option in versatile junior Prayer Roebuck, but needed someone who could also deliver the ball to Roebuck at the net for her left-handed swings from the right side.Stover’s answer? A sophomore with no experience at the position and on the back end of her own ACL recovery, Kimmy Combs.“Finding a varsity setter is really tough,” said Stover, whose team has matched Neodesha’s program-record 36 victories from a year ago and earned its first state tournament berth since 2015. “That’s a really hard position just to push someone into. Kimmy, at the time, wasn’t even cleared until the first week of August to start coming back.”Combs, who went down on the first play of Neodesha’s seventh match last season, had some early reservations and ensuing growing pains at setter. But she has evolved into the role, producing 453 assists and allowing Roebuck to flourish as the Bluestreaks’ go-to hitter.“She really struggled with it at the beginning, especially with Prayer,” Stover said. “Prayer’s a left-hander and she likes it in a specific spot. Prayer likes to go fast and there was a lot of frustration – mainly Kimmy putting pressure on herself and not being where she wanted to be.“But she has done amazing. The fact that she could jump in there and do that at the varsity level just amazes me still.”Neodesha, hindered by Tri-Valley League rivals Eureka and Humboldt in its quest to reach state in recent seasons, faced neither in last week’s Fredonia sub-state. After Anderson County knocked off Humboldt in the semifinals, the Bluestreaks rolled past Anderson County 25-12, 25-10 in the title match.The 5-foot-10 Roebuck, who leads Neodesha this season with 462 kills, recorded the 1,000th&nbsp;of her career during the tournament.“Prayer has really stepped up this year,” Stover said. “She has really tried to take it on her shoulders and do a lot of things. I feel bad for her sometimes because she puts a lot of pressure on herself. When things don’t go her way, she’s really hard on herself, but I think she’s done a great job this year.”Underclassmen handle the bulk of Neodesha’s playing time. Roebuck has added 303 assists and 42 service aces. In addition to her setting role, Combs has 269 kills and 229 digs with 72 aces. Sophomore libero Dalia Johnson and junior outside hitter/defensive specialist Darcie Dyke are part of a lineup that will seek its first state victories for Stover, Neodesha’s 13th&nbsp;year head coach who earned her 300th&nbsp;victory this season.Neodesha will open 3A state pool play as the No. 2 seed Friday with matches against Riverton, Silver Lake and Cheney.“This team’s best quality is they don’t panic,” Stover said. “Their composure is very good. There’s been several times that we’ve started out slow or lost the first set.“They’re confident in themselves and they know they can come back and turn things around. I think that’s something that’s very special about them. They never count themselves out.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://kshsaacovered.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_id=0&amp;image_path=/images/2023/10/26/Riverton_volleyball_sub_state_champs.jpeg" alt="Riverton volleyball poses with the sub-state trophy, the team's fourth straight." />
 <figcaption>Riverton volleyball poses with the sub-state trophy, the team's fourth straight.</figcaption>
 </figure>RIVERTON TURNS REBUILD INTO RELOAD AS RAMS MAKES 4TH STRAIGHT STATE APPEARANCERiverton volleyball had not won a league title in 30 years before Rebecca Lipasek came to town in 2017.With Class of 2023 players Jacy Thomasson and Morgan Compton leading the way, the Rams paired three straight state appearances with ending that league title drought.But it was hard to picture Riverton returning to state without those two players this season.And yet, the Rams found a way to turn a No. 3 seed into a fourth straight trip to state anyway.Riverton survived a three-set thriller against Galena to open the postseason before sweeping Girard and Frontenac to win sub-state for the fourth straight year.The Rams may have lost the firepower of Thomasson and the perfect timing that she had with Compton and 2021 grad Emma Berry at setter before that.But the same development program under Lipasek and her daughter Kylie as Riverton’s middle school volleyball coach helped create a strong foundation that was just as important to Riverton’s postseason success as all-state standouts.Part of that foundation has been this team’s ability to play elite defense without Thomasson out there as a killing machine.“If we can slow down our opponent’s top attackers, we feel like we have a shot at winning,” Lipasek said. “Our serve receive has been strong in the latter part of the season, which has helped our new setters.”Junior Maddie Darnaby and junior Lexie Mallatt have 59 and 55 aces respectively, followed by senior EJ Wells at 50 and seniors Alivia Parker at 47.Wells and Parker have led the Rams in kills this season. Wells leads the team with 349 kills, and total blocks with 69, while Parker added another 190. Junior Maddie Darnaby contributed another 139 kills.As much as it was difficult for the team to figure out how to replace Thomasson’s production, it was filling the setter role in Compton’s absence that made things rough for the Rams early in the season.“We went into the season knowing that the setting position would improve as the season progressed,” Lipasek said. “It’s been frustrating at times to see the connections be sporadic. Obviously time and repetition has helped the setters grow and get to know each hitter.”Senior Josie Harper and sophomore Ava Price have shared the setter duties this season. Harper leads the team with 345 assists while Price added another 249, although the latter holds a slight edge in assists per set this season. Junior Landyn Martin also contributed another 164 assists.Lipasek said that the team started to really focus on the basics to get that timing and chemistry working.“Patience and encouragement by our hitters has been a key as well,” Lipasek said. “The setter play at sub-state was some of the most consistent we’ve had all season and we look for that to continue.”Even though this looked like it might be a rebuilding year for the Rams, Lipasek said that the team’s experience, particularly having returners with state experience, has been a vital part of this team’s performance this season.“Experience is so important to our team,” Lipasek said. “EJ and Alivia have started varsity their entire careers, as well as juniors Lexie and Maddie. They have shown by example what kind of intensity and commitment it takes to compete in the postseason.”Lipasek is looking for this group to remain consistent with its performance to give the Rams a chance to reach the semifinals for the second straight season.“The key for our group is consistency, it has been all season,” Lipasek said. “We cannot afford for a breakdown in any phase of our game. The competition is just too good for that to happen. We need multiple hitters to step up and for the setters to be able to deliver.”<figure>
 <img src="https://kshsaacovered.com/common/controls/image_handler.aspx?thumb_id=13&amp;image_path=/images/2023/10/25/Goodland_HS.png" alt="Goodland is back at state for the fourth consecutive year.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Goodland is back at state for the fourth consecutive year.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>GOODLAND RELOADS AFTER HEAVY GRADUATION LOSSES&nbsp;You don’t lose one of the most successful senior classes in school history and not feel the impact the following year.&nbsp;Goodland was tasked with replacing a group of seniors – including stars Talexa Weeter, Olivia Lehman and Lindsey Cure – that not only helped the volleyball team reach state the last three years, but also led the basketball team to back-to-back state championship seasons.&nbsp;Goodland coach Angie Brumbaugh knew the Cowgirls would go through some growing pains, but the cupboard was far from bare.&nbsp;“We lost the majority of our power, but we returned our speed,” Brumbaugh said. “We lost a lot of key parts but we knew we had our ball control back, so that was definitely something we wanted to build around.&nbsp;“I kept telling them early on: We have good pieces, it’s just going to take us some time to fit this puzzle together the best way.”That’s been the case for the Cowgirls, who took 15 losses into the postseason and entered the Hoisington sub-state as the No. 4 seed.&nbsp;But that didn’t stop Goodland from hitting its stride when it mattered most, sweeping Colby, Hoisington and Holcomb to earn its fourth consecutive state tournament appearance. After beating Colby 27-25 in the first set, Goodland won every other set on the day by at least six points.&nbsp;The Cowgirls have won 13 of their last 15 matches heading into state.&nbsp;“In the last two to three weeks, we’ve really been able to see the fine-tuning and bring it all together,” Brumbaugh said.“We just felt in control (in sub-state). We were believing in ourselves and believing in each other and it just made for a very successful day.”Even after losing last year’s tremendous senior class, the Cowgirls had no problem finding leadership this year.Outside hitter Jaxi Mitchek, libero Haley Biermann, right-side hitter Haley Blochlinger, setter Hannah Coumerilh and defensive specialists Brooklan Ivans and Brielle Rubio have assumed roles as senior leaders.&nbsp;Other key players are sophomore hitters Alessa Rickard, Libby Cure and Lauren Linton.&nbsp;Mitchek went over 1,000 career digs at the Great West Activities Conference tournament and is closing in on 1,000 career kills with 976 She has 387 kills this season to lead Cowgirls. Four other players have at least 124 kills –&nbsp; Blochlinger (161), Rickard (143), Cure (124) and Linton (114). Coumerilh leads the team with 767 assists, while Biermann has 446 digs and Mitchek 431. Cure leads team in blocks with 73 and Linton has 53.Goodland (23-15) is the No. 8 seed and will be in a loaded pool with top-seed Beloit (37-2), defending champion Heritage Christian (34-4) and Smoky Valley (29-11).&nbsp;“Because (making state) was so unexpected for so many people, we have nothing to lose and absolutely everything to gain,” Brumbaugh said. “I definitely think we’re on the tougher side of the pool with Beloit and Heritage in there but everybody is a great team that’s there. We’re going to have just go in and take care of us and adjust based on what’s on the other side of the net. But if we keep believing in us and keep pushing, I think we can do good things.”