KJCCC SCHEDULE Saturday, Sept. 9 11 a.m. - (2) Iowa Western at (10) Garden City 12 p.m. - (1) Hutchinson at (5) Iowa Central 1 p.m. - Dodge City at Highland 7 p.m. - Coffeyville at Independence Bye Week: Butler <a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/fball/2023-24/div1/composite?date=2023-09-09">Full NJCAA Schedule</a>

KCAC SCHEDULE Saturday, Sept. 9&nbsp; 6 p.m. - Kansas Wesleyan at Southwestern 6 p.m. - Ottawa at Bethel 6 p.m. - Saint Mary at McPherson 6 p.m. - Sterling at Evangel 6 p.m. - Avila at Friends 7 p.m. - Tabor at Bethany <a href="https://naiastats.prestosports.com/sports/fball/scoreboard">Full NAIA Schedule</a>

MIAA SCHEDULE Thursday, Sept. 7 6 p.m. - Missouri Southern at Washburn 7 p.m. - (3) Pittsburg St. at Fort Hays St. 7 p.m. - (15) Emporia St. at (5) Northwest Missouri St. Saturday, Sept. 9 1 p.m. - Central Oklahoma at Central Missouri 6 p.m. - Missouri Western at Lincoln 7 p.m. - Northeastern St. at Nebraska Kearney <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/scoreboard/football/d2">Full NCAA-DII Schedule</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686627047967.jpeg" alt="Eagle Media Sports" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Media Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>KJCCC SCHEDULE Saturday, Sept. 9 11 a.m. - (2) Iowa Western at (10) Garden City 12 p.m. - (1) Hutchinson at (5) Iowa Central 1 p.m. - Dodge City at Highland 7 p.m. - Coffeyville at Independence Bye Week: Butler <a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/fball/2023-24/div1/composite?date=2023-09-09">Full NJCAA Schedule</a>---KCAC SCHEDULE Saturday, Sept. 9&nbsp; 6 p.m. - Kansas Wesleyan at Southwestern 6 p.m. - Ottawa at Bethel 6 p.m. - Saint Mary at McPherson 6 p.m. - Sterling at Evangel 6 p.m. - Avila at Friends 7 p.m. - Tabor at Bethany <a href="https://naiastats.prestosports.com/sports/fball/scoreboard">Full NAIA Schedule</a>---MIAA SCHEDULE Thursday, Sept. 7 6 p.m. - Missouri Southern at Washburn 7 p.m. - (3) Pittsburg St. at Fort Hays St. 7 p.m. - (15) Emporia St. at (5) Northwest Missouri St. Saturday, Sept. 9 1 p.m. - Central Oklahoma at Central Missouri 6 p.m. - Missouri Western at Lincoln 7 p.m. - Northeastern St. at Nebraska Kearney <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/scoreboard/football/d2">Full NCAA-DII Schedule</a>

🏈 KJCCC, KCAC, MIAA weekly schedule (Sept. 7-9)

By Hutchinson CC Sports Information

The 25th all-time women's soccer meeting between Hutchinson Community College and Butler lived up to the some of the top games ever played in one of the Jayhawk Conference's top rivalries regardless of sport.

<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/delgado_adriana_03x3">Adriana Delgado</a>&nbsp;scored the game-tying goal with 3:31 to play in the second half and the No. 16 Blue Dragons rallied to earn a huge 1-1 draw with the No. 9-ranked Grizzlies on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex. This was the first draw in series history.

For just the third time since 2010, the Blue Dragons earned a point from a Top 10-ranked team. The last time was a 2-2 draw against No. 6 Kansas City in 2021.

The Blue Dragons improve to 5-0-2 overall and 2-0-2 (eight points) in the Jayhawk Conference. Butler is now 1-1-4 and 0-1-3 (3 points) in the KJCCC. The Blue Dragons travel to Coffeyville on Saturday.

Down 1-0 entering the later stages of the second half, the Blue Dragons hadn't created much offense in the second half with just one shot on goal that occurred in the first minute of the half.

<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/mayumi_tatiana_l7lq">Tatiana Mayumi</a>&nbsp;worked a ball through some open field in the middle third and looked to chip a pass into the penalty area. Instead, the Grizzlies deflected the ball right to Delgado, who lobbed a shot from 22 yards out just under the cross bar and over the hand of Butler goalkeeper Carla Apodaca with the game-tying goal with 3:31 to play in the second half.

The draw was preserved after Blue Dragon goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/slothower_karsyn_3puo">Karsyn Slothower</a>&nbsp;came up with a huge save, the Dragon defense blocked another shot and the Grizzlies didn't convert on a corner kick in the final minute.

Slothower made seven critical saves in the match to improve to 5-0-2 for the season, five saves coming in the second half.

Slothower made two saves in the first half and the Grizzlies' Sakiko Manabe stuck a shot off the crossbar with 12 seconds to play in the half to take a scoreless tie into halftime.

Butler scored the first goal, which was set up from a corner kick. After initially missing on the corner, Emma Kolbe sent a cross into the box that was headed of the right post by Alayna Runck. The ball rolled parallel down the goal line and Runck beat Slothower to the loose ball and knocked it into the goal with 27:02 to play.

The Blue Dragons were out-shot 25-14. Butler's Apodaca made four saves.

Delgado, who earlier in the day was named the NJCAA National Division I Player of the Week, scored her ninth goal of the season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694076349222.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower makes one of her seven saves in a 1-1 draw with Butler on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex. (Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)." />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower makes one of her seven saves in a 1-1 draw with Butler on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex. (Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information).</figcaption>
 </figure>By Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe 25th all-time women's soccer meeting between Hutchinson Community College and Butler lived up to the some of the top games ever played in one of the Jayhawk Conference's top rivalries regardless of sport.<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/delgado_adriana_03x3">Adriana Delgado</a>&nbsp;scored the game-tying goal with 3:31 to play in the second half and the No. 16 Blue Dragons rallied to earn a huge 1-1 draw with the No. 9-ranked Grizzlies on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex. This was the first draw in series history.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had to tie it up for the draw and <a href="https://twitter.com/adrianad316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adrianad316</a> sent a beauty into the back of the net in the final minutes of regulation.👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreatheFire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreatheFire</a> <a href="https://t.co/7eUtLLcOzc">pic.twitter.com/7eUtLLcOzc</a>&mdash; Blue Dragon Sports (@bluedragonsport) <a href="https://twitter.com/bluedragonsport/status/1699607526868763005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>For just the third time since 2010, the Blue Dragons earned a point from a Top 10-ranked team. The last time was a 2-2 draw against No. 6 Kansas City in 2021.The Blue Dragons improve to 5-0-2 overall and 2-0-2 (eight points) in the Jayhawk Conference. Butler is now 1-1-4 and 0-1-3 (3 points) in the KJCCC. The Blue Dragons travel to Coffeyville on Saturday.Down 1-0 entering the later stages of the second half, the Blue Dragons hadn't created much offense in the second half with just one shot on goal that occurred in the first minute of the half.<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/mayumi_tatiana_l7lq">Tatiana Mayumi</a>&nbsp;worked a ball through some open field in the middle third and looked to chip a pass into the penalty area. Instead, the Grizzlies deflected the ball right to Delgado, who lobbed a shot from 22 yards out just under the cross bar and over the hand of Butler goalkeeper Carla Apodaca with the game-tying goal with 3:31 to play in the second half.The draw was preserved after Blue Dragon goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/slothower_karsyn_3puo">Karsyn Slothower</a>&nbsp;came up with a huge save, the Dragon defense blocked another shot and the Grizzlies didn't convert on a corner kick in the final minute.Slothower made seven critical saves in the match to improve to 5-0-2 for the season, five saves coming in the second half.Slothower made two saves in the first half and the Grizzlies' Sakiko Manabe stuck a shot off the crossbar with 12 seconds to play in the half to take a scoreless tie into halftime.Butler scored the first goal, which was set up from a corner kick. After initially missing on the corner, Emma Kolbe sent a cross into the box that was headed of the right post by Alayna Runck. The ball rolled parallel down the goal line and Runck beat Slothower to the loose ball and knocked it into the goal with 27:02 to play.The Blue Dragons were out-shot 25-14. Butler's Apodaca made four saves.Delgado, who earlier in the day was named the NJCAA National Division I Player of the Week, scored her ninth goal of the season.

⚽ HutchCC earns key draw versus Grizzlies

CONCORDIA –&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/golden_taniya_wjj0">Taniya Golden</a>&nbsp;paced the offense and libero&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/rollandini_isabella_ircy">Isabella Rollandini</a>&nbsp;led a tremendous back-row defense as the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team won its fifth match in a row on Wednesday.

Hutchinson remained unbeaten in conference play after a 25-14, 25-18, 25-19 KJCCC road victory over Cloud County at the Thunderdome.

The Blue Dragons improved to 7-2 overall and 3-0 in the Jayhawk Conference. Cloud County is now 9-3 overall and 1-2 in the league. Hutchinson plays four matches this weekend in the Weatherford Tournament, starting with Western Texas at 9 a.m. on Friday.

Golden had a match-high 12 kills and hit .235 with nine digs to lead the Blue Dragons. Hutchinson hit .186 for the match

Freshman middle&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/murphy_mckenzie_k4jq">McKenzie Murphy</a>&nbsp;had a season-high seven kills on .429 hitting with two block. Sophomore middle&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/dean_anna_0g77">Anna Dean</a>&nbsp;had five kills and five digs.

Sophomore setter&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/ravenhani_giovanna_k9db">Giovanna Ravanhani</a>&nbsp;finished with 29 assists, one kill and two blocks.

The Blue Dragons held Cloud County to just .077 hitting, out-digging the Thunderbirds 51-42. The Dragons were out-blocked 6-3.

Rollandini led the Blue Dragon back row with 16 digs.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/briseno_alejandra_xati">Alejandra Briseno</a>&nbsp;and Golden had nine digs each. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/velez_alondra_c0k9">Alondra Velez</a>&nbsp;had seven digs.

Hutchinson had nine service aces. Briseno had three aces and Rollandini had two aces.

SET 1: Cloud led early 4-2, but an&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/long_ashlyn_ig40">Ashlyn Long</a>&nbsp;kill gave the Dragons a 6-5 lead. Another Long kill boosted the lead to 9-6. Leading by two, the Blue Dragons took control with a 10-1 run capped by a Golden kill for an 18-9 lead. The Blue Dragons out-hit Cloud County .273-minus-.067 and rolled to a 25-14 lead.

SET 2: Cloud County led 7-5, but a 4-0 run capped by a Golden kill turned that deficit into a 9-7 lead. Tied at 10-all, a Cloud attack error gave the Dragons the lead for good.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/muff_callie_ayau">Callie Muff</a>'s kill bumped the Dragon lead to 14-11. Briseno's service ace gave the Dragons a 19-14 lead. Briseno's kill gave the Dragons a 2-0 lead after a 25-18 victory. The Dragons hit .189 to Cloud County's .167.

SET 3: The Blue Dragons never trailed in the third set. Leading 9-8, set error followed by a Dean service ace pushed the Hutchinson lead to three. The Dragons pushed their run to 7-0 after a Murphy kill give the Dragons a 15-8 lead. The Blue Dragons held Cloud County to .105 hitting. Golden had five kills in the set and led Hutchinson's .140 hitting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694076090077.jpeg" alt="HutchCC VB at Cloud.jpg" />
 <figcaption>HutchCC VB at Cloud.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By Hutchinson CC Sports InformationCONCORDIA –&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/golden_taniya_wjj0">Taniya Golden</a>&nbsp;paced the offense and libero&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/rollandini_isabella_ircy">Isabella Rollandini</a>&nbsp;led a tremendous back-row defense as the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team won its fifth match in a row on Wednesday.Hutchinson remained unbeaten in conference play after a 25-14, 25-18, 25-19 KJCCC road victory over Cloud County at the Thunderdome.The Blue Dragons improved to 7-2 overall and 3-0 in the Jayhawk Conference. Cloud County is now 9-3 overall and 1-2 in the league. Hutchinson plays four matches this weekend in the Weatherford Tournament, starting with Western Texas at 9 a.m. on Friday.Golden had a match-high 12 kills and hit .235 with nine digs to lead the Blue Dragons. Hutchinson hit .186 for the matchFreshman middle&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/murphy_mckenzie_k4jq">McKenzie Murphy</a>&nbsp;had a season-high seven kills on .429 hitting with two block. Sophomore middle&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/dean_anna_0g77">Anna Dean</a>&nbsp;had five kills and five digs.Sophomore setter&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/ravenhani_giovanna_k9db">Giovanna Ravanhani</a>&nbsp;finished with 29 assists, one kill and two blocks.The Blue Dragons held Cloud County to just .077 hitting, out-digging the Thunderbirds 51-42. The Dragons were out-blocked 6-3.Rollandini led the Blue Dragon back row with 16 digs.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/briseno_alejandra_xati">Alejandra Briseno</a>&nbsp;and Golden had nine digs each. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/velez_alondra_c0k9">Alondra Velez</a>&nbsp;had seven digs.Hutchinson had nine service aces. Briseno had three aces and Rollandini had two aces.SET 1: Cloud led early 4-2, but an&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/long_ashlyn_ig40">Ashlyn Long</a>&nbsp;kill gave the Dragons a 6-5 lead. Another Long kill boosted the lead to 9-6. Leading by two, the Blue Dragons took control with a 10-1 run capped by a Golden kill for an 18-9 lead. The Blue Dragons out-hit Cloud County .273-minus-.067 and rolled to a 25-14 lead.SET 2: Cloud County led 7-5, but a 4-0 run capped by a Golden kill turned that deficit into a 9-7 lead. Tied at 10-all, a Cloud attack error gave the Dragons the lead for good.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/muff_callie_ayau">Callie Muff</a>'s kill bumped the Dragon lead to 14-11. Briseno's service ace gave the Dragons a 19-14 lead. Briseno's kill gave the Dragons a 2-0 lead after a 25-18 victory. The Dragons hit .189 to Cloud County's .167.SET 3: The Blue Dragons never trailed in the third set. Leading 9-8, set error followed by a Dean service ace pushed the Hutchinson lead to three. The Dragons pushed their run to 7-0 after a Murphy kill give the Dragons a 15-8 lead. The Blue Dragons held Cloud County to .105 hitting. Golden had five kills in the set and led Hutchinson's .140 hitting.

🏐 HutchCC Blue Dragons sweep Cloud County

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - The Wind Surge sprang to life mid-way through the ballgame when Seth Gray hit a grand slam to put the Surge within one run. The momentum was lost when the Hooks kept hammering home runs of their own and pulled back out of reach. The Wind Surge lost to the Hooks by a score of 10-4 and Corpus Christi now leads the series two games to none.

Corpus Christi scored the first run of the ball game in the bottom of the second. Jacob Melton hit a solo home run on a fly ball that flew over the right field wall.

The Hooks hit a couple more home runs in the bottom of the fourth. J.C. Correa hit a two-run home run on a line drive to left field and Will Wagner hit a two-run home run on a fly ball to right field.

The Wind Surge bats came to life in the top of the fifth. Jake Rucker and Ben Ross hit singles on line drives and Aaron Sabato was walked to load the bases. Seth Gray then stepped to the plate and hit a two-out grand slam that put the Wind Surge within one run of the Hooks.

Colin Barber hit the Hooks fourth home run of the day in the bottom of the fifth. He hit a line drive to left field for a solo home run.

The Hooks hit their fifth and sixth home runs of the ball game in the bottom of the sixth. Zach Dezenzo hit a three-run home run on a fly ball to left center field and Barber hit a solo home run on a fly ball to right field for his second home run of the game.

Sean Mooney made his first start of the season for the Wind Surge. He pitched a one scoreless inning where he struck out two batters and walked one other batter. Carlos Luna took over and pitched two and two thirds innings where he gave up five runs off six hits. He struck out three batters and walked one more. Luna was credited with the loss, and his record falls to (2-9).

The Corpus Christi Hooks starting pitcher Blair Henley pitched four and two thirds of an inning where he gave up two runs off four hits. He struck out three batters and walked three more. Peyton Plumlee earned the win, and his record improves to (1-6).

The first place Wichita Wind Surge fall to (32-27, 60-67) and the Corpus Christi Hooks improve to (31-28, 64-64). The Surge lead Springfield by one game with ten games to play.

NOTES: Yoyner Fajardo has now reached base in a record 21 consecutive games. The streak is the longest of any Wind Surge player this season. The six home runs the Surge gave up tonight ties a season high for the most home runs allowed in a game.

BROADCAST: ESPN Wichita 92.3, Milb First Pitch App,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,dexWbEMmO2SNZFacaCKfVJIV48UFXNwoAwE4zyM2KXaD_HSgx84zoOHAglON-gUjtBR3aBrV7b7fNPJsxVGXCgYR5cYPta1xJgIbXkHri2NTnYdJ6WV7jsuz044,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Windsurge.com</a>, MiLB.tv and Bally Live app.

UPCOMING: The Wind Surge continue their final road series of the season down south in Corpus Christi. Game three of the six game series against the Hooks will be played Thursday, September 7th and first pitch will be at 6:35 PM. RH Pierson Ohl will take the mound for Wichita and A.J. Blubaugh will be the starting pitcher for Corpus Christi.

NEXT HOME GAME: The Wind Surge head back home to Riverfront Stadium on Tuesday, September 12th to play game one of their final home series this season. They will take on the Midland RockHounds and first pitch will be at 7:05 PM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694073970244.jpeg" alt="Surge 9-7-23.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Surge 9-7-23.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - The Wind Surge sprang to life mid-way through the ballgame when Seth Gray hit a grand slam to put the Surge within one run. The momentum was lost when the Hooks kept hammering home runs of their own and pulled back out of reach. The Wind Surge lost to the Hooks by a score of 10-4 and Corpus Christi now leads the series two games to none.Corpus Christi scored the first run of the ball game in the bottom of the second. Jacob Melton hit a solo home run on a fly ball that flew over the right field wall.The Hooks hit a couple more home runs in the bottom of the fourth. J.C. Correa hit a two-run home run on a line drive to left field and Will Wagner hit a two-run home run on a fly ball to right field.The Wind Surge bats came to life in the top of the fifth. Jake Rucker and Ben Ross hit singles on line drives and Aaron Sabato was walked to load the bases. Seth Gray then stepped to the plate and hit a two-out grand slam that put the Wind Surge within one run of the Hooks.Colin Barber hit the Hooks fourth home run of the day in the bottom of the fifth. He hit a line drive to left field for a solo home run.The Hooks hit their fifth and sixth home runs of the ball game in the bottom of the sixth. Zach Dezenzo hit a three-run home run on a fly ball to left center field and Barber hit a solo home run on a fly ball to right field for his second home run of the game.Sean Mooney made his first start of the season for the Wind Surge. He pitched a one scoreless inning where he struck out two batters and walked one other batter. Carlos Luna took over and pitched two and two thirds innings where he gave up five runs off six hits. He struck out three batters and walked one more. Luna was credited with the loss, and his record falls to (2-9).The Corpus Christi Hooks starting pitcher Blair Henley pitched four and two thirds of an inning where he gave up two runs off four hits. He struck out three batters and walked three more. Peyton Plumlee earned the win, and his record improves to (1-6).The first place Wichita Wind Surge fall to (32-27, 60-67) and the Corpus Christi Hooks improve to (31-28, 64-64). The Surge lead Springfield by one game with ten games to play.NOTES: Yoyner Fajardo has now reached base in a record 21 consecutive games. The streak is the longest of any Wind Surge player this season. The six home runs the Surge gave up tonight ties a season high for the most home runs allowed in a game.BROADCAST: ESPN Wichita 92.3, Milb First Pitch App,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,dexWbEMmO2SNZFacaCKfVJIV48UFXNwoAwE4zyM2KXaD_HSgx84zoOHAglON-gUjtBR3aBrV7b7fNPJsxVGXCgYR5cYPta1xJgIbXkHri2NTnYdJ6WV7jsuz044,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Windsurge.com</a>, MiLB.tv and Bally Live app.UPCOMING: The Wind Surge continue their final road series of the season down south in Corpus Christi. Game three of the six game series against the Hooks will be played Thursday, September 7th and first pitch will be at 6:35 PM. RH Pierson Ohl will take the mound for Wichita and A.J. Blubaugh will be the starting pitcher for Corpus Christi.NEXT HOME GAME: The Wind Surge head back home to Riverfront Stadium on Tuesday, September 12th to play game one of their final home series this season. They will take on the Midland RockHounds and first pitch will be at 7:05 PM.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge get grand slam, Hooks keep hammering

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Andrew Vaughn doubled, homered, drove in two runs and scored two as the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 6-4 to snap a five-game losing streak.

Elvis Andrus had four hits, and Yoan Moncada and Oscar Colas also went deep for the White Sox. Chicago starter Touki Toussaint (3-7) gave up two runs and two hits with six strikeouts over six innings. Bryan Shaw got the last three outs for his second save of the season.

Nelson Velazquez and Edward Olivares homered for Kansas City, which had won consecutive games for the first time since winning seven straight July 28 to Aug. 4. The Royals have lost 22 of their last 30.

The Royals next take on the Blue Jays Friday evening at 6:07.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693967995292.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates as he crosses the plate after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates as he crosses the plate after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Andrew Vaughn doubled, homered, drove in two runs and scored two as the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 6-4 to snap a five-game losing streak.Elvis Andrus had four hits, and Yoan Moncada and Oscar Colas also went deep for the White Sox. Chicago starter Touki Toussaint (3-7) gave up two runs and two hits with six strikeouts over six innings. Bryan Shaw got the last three outs for his second save of the season.Nelson Velazquez and Edward Olivares homered for Kansas City, which had won consecutive games for the first time since winning seven straight July 28 to Aug. 4. The Royals have lost 22 of their last 30.The Royals next take on the Blue Jays Friday evening at 6:07.

⚾ Andrew Vaughn has double, homer, 2 RBIs and two runs scored as White Sox beat Royals 6-4

AP Sports Summary for September 7th, 2023.

In 'brutal' US Open heat, Daniil Medvedev warns during his win that a player is 'gonna die'

NEW YORK (AP) — Daniil Medvedev has reached his fourth U.S. Open semifinal as the heat and humidity continue to rise at the Grand Slam tennis tournament. He looked into a courtside TV camera in the final set of a 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Andrey Rublev on Wednesday and warned that a player is 'gonna die' in the nearly 95-degree Fahrenheit (35-Celsius) conditions. Medvedev, the 2021 U.S. Open champion, will face defending men's champion Carlos Alcaraz next. Alcaraz beat Alexander Zverev 6-3, 6-2, 6-4. Aryna Sabalenka and Madison Keys will meet in the women's semifinals on Thursday. Both won in straight sets Wednesday.

Carlos Alcaraz reaches the US Open semifinals and closes in on a second consecutive title

NEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz has defeated Alexander Zverev in straight sets to reach the U.S. Open semifinals. Alcaraz is trying to become the first man to win consecutive titles at Flushing Meadows since Roger Federer claimed five in a row from 2004 to 2008. Alcaraz is a 20-year-old from Spain who has won 24 of his past 25 Grand Slam matches. That includes a trophy at Wimbledon in July. He will try to get back to the final in New York by beating 2021 U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev in Friday's semifinals. The other matchup in the men's final four is Novak Djokovic against unseeded American Ben Shelton.

SafeSport Center 'in potential crisis' according to panel's survey of Olympic system

A wide-ranging survey into the state of the U.S. Olympic system leveled criticism at the U.S. Center for SafeSport, with a draft analysis concluding that feedback collected about the 6-year-old agency "paints a picture of a center in potential crisis." SafeSport Center CEO Ju'Riese Colon was among the Olympic leaders who testified at a hearing in Washington held by the Congressionally appointed Commission on the State of the U.S. Olympics and Paralympics. Colon painted an overall positive picture of the center that Congress formed in 2017 to deal with abuse allegations in Olympic sports. But the commission survey of more than 3,000 people said 50.6% of respondents were neutral, disagreed, or strongly disagreed with the question of whether SafeSport was meeting its goals.

Chiefs All-Pro Chris Jones amid holdout as season approaches: 'I just want a raise'

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones says he "just wants a raise" as he threatens to take his holdout into the regular season with Kansas City scheduled to face the Detroit Lions in the NFL's opener Thursday night. Jones was back in Kansas City on Wednesday to visit with children and their families at Ronald McDonald House Charities. The All-Pro pass rusher left open the possibility he could be on the field against the Lions, and reaffirmed his hope that he can sign a long-term deal with the Chiefs. The 29-year-old Jones is entering the final year of a four-year, $80 million contract.

MLB places Dodgers pitcher Julio Urías on administrative leave after arrest

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Julio Urías was placed on administrative leave indefinitely by Major League Baseball, three days after the Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher was arrested on suspicion of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. The leave was imposed under baseball's joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy adopted by MLB and the players' union in 2015 and can be the first step toward a suspension. Players are paid but cannot play while on leave. Urías was arrested late Sunday night by Department of Public Safety officers in Exposition Park, south of downtown Los Angeles.

Spanish soccer player Jenni Hermoso accuses Luis Rubiales of sexual assault for World Cup kiss

MADRID (AP) — Spanish state prosecutors say soccer player Jenni Hermoso has accused Luis Rubiales of sexual assault for kissing her on the lips without her consent after the Women's World Cup final. Rubiales is the suspended president of the Spanish soccer federation. He kissed Hermoso on the lips during the awards ceremony after Spain beat England to win the title on Aug. 20 in Sydney, Australia. Rubiales has insisted the kiss was consensual. Hermoso has denied that. Rubiales has since been suspended from his post by FIFA.

Pro Picks: Mahomes, Chiefs up for a tough task vs. Lions

The Kansas City Chiefs will have Patrick Mahomes under center after they raise their championship banner and embark on a quest to become the first team to repeat in nearly two decades. Travis Kelce and Chris Jones may not be there. Kelce, the All-Pro tight end, is dealing with a knee injury. Jones, the All-Pro edge rusher, has been holding out for a new contract. Mahomes should be enough to squeak past the upstart Detroit Lions. Jared Goff is coming off a Pro Bowl season with the Lions, who have plenty of playmakers around him on offense. Stopping opponents from scoring was Detroit's problem last season and a revamped defense has to deal with Mahomes right away.

College football picks: The Longhorns and Aggies have opportunities to make statements on the road

Since splitting up 11 years ago, No. 11 Texas and No. 23 Texas A&amp;M have traveled similarly underwhelming paths. They will be reunited next year when Texas joins the SEC so this is the last season where the rivalry plays out vicariously. This weekend is another opportunity for both to make a statement. Texas visits No. 3 Alabama for the return match of last season's one-point victory for the Crimson Tide. Texas A&amp;M has a road game against Miami.

49ers sign Nick Bosa to a record-setting contract extension to end his lengthy holdout

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Nick Bosa's lengthy contract holdout ended four days before the start of the season for the San Francisco 49ers when he agreed to a contract extension that will make him the NFL's richest defensive player ever. Coach Kyle Shanahan said the two sides agreed to the contract and that Bosa is on his way to the team facility. Shanahan said he expects Bosa to be able to play in the season opener on Sunday at Pittsburgh despite missing all of training camp. ESPN first reported the extension and said it was worth $170 million over five seasons with $122.5 million guaranteed.

Unruly fans singing Nazi songs and interrupting play with shouts cause problems at US Open

NEW YORK (AP) — Alexander Zverev felt he had to react when he heard a fan use language from Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime during his U.S. Open match. The man was throw out, as was another later Tuesday during Novak Djokovic's victory. Those ejections highlighted a challenge players and the event face as the U.S. Open draws the biggest crowds in its history. They want to make sure those fans are engaged, but not enough to disrupt the tennis — and how to handle it when they do.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688383699667.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Thursday Morning, September 7th, 2023." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Thursday Morning, September 7th, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="September 7th, 2023 Early Morning Sports" 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=ni8ep-149cc0c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for September 7th, 2023.In 'brutal' US Open heat, Daniil Medvedev warns during his win that a player is 'gonna die'NEW YORK (AP) — Daniil Medvedev has reached his fourth U.S. Open semifinal as the heat and humidity continue to rise at the Grand Slam tennis tournament. He looked into a courtside TV camera in the final set of a 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Andrey Rublev on Wednesday and warned that a player is 'gonna die' in the nearly 95-degree Fahrenheit (35-Celsius) conditions. Medvedev, the 2021 U.S. Open champion, will face defending men's champion Carlos Alcaraz next. Alcaraz beat Alexander Zverev 6-3, 6-2, 6-4. Aryna Sabalenka and Madison Keys will meet in the women's semifinals on Thursday. Both won in straight sets Wednesday.Carlos Alcaraz reaches the US Open semifinals and closes in on a second consecutive titleNEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz has defeated Alexander Zverev in straight sets to reach the U.S. Open semifinals. Alcaraz is trying to become the first man to win consecutive titles at Flushing Meadows since Roger Federer claimed five in a row from 2004 to 2008. Alcaraz is a 20-year-old from Spain who has won 24 of his past 25 Grand Slam matches. That includes a trophy at Wimbledon in July. He will try to get back to the final in New York by beating 2021 U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev in Friday's semifinals. The other matchup in the men's final four is Novak Djokovic against unseeded American Ben Shelton.SafeSport Center 'in potential crisis' according to panel's survey of Olympic systemA wide-ranging survey into the state of the U.S. Olympic system leveled criticism at the U.S. Center for SafeSport, with a draft analysis concluding that feedback collected about the 6-year-old agency "paints a picture of a center in potential crisis." SafeSport Center CEO Ju'Riese Colon was among the Olympic leaders who testified at a hearing in Washington held by the Congressionally appointed Commission on the State of the U.S. Olympics and Paralympics. Colon painted an overall positive picture of the center that Congress formed in 2017 to deal with abuse allegations in Olympic sports. But the commission survey of more than 3,000 people said 50.6% of respondents were neutral, disagreed, or strongly disagreed with the question of whether SafeSport was meeting its goals.Chiefs All-Pro Chris Jones amid holdout as season approaches: 'I just want a raise'KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones says he "just wants a raise" as he threatens to take his holdout into the regular season with Kansas City scheduled to face the Detroit Lions in the NFL's opener Thursday night. Jones was back in Kansas City on Wednesday to visit with children and their families at Ronald McDonald House Charities. The All-Pro pass rusher left open the possibility he could be on the field against the Lions, and reaffirmed his hope that he can sign a long-term deal with the Chiefs. The 29-year-old Jones is entering the final year of a four-year, $80 million contract.MLB places Dodgers pitcher Julio Urías on administrative leave after arrestLOS ANGELES (AP) — Julio Urías was placed on administrative leave indefinitely by Major League Baseball, three days after the Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher was arrested on suspicion of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. The leave was imposed under baseball's joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy adopted by MLB and the players' union in 2015 and can be the first step toward a suspension. Players are paid but cannot play while on leave. Urías was arrested late Sunday night by Department of Public Safety officers in Exposition Park, south of downtown Los Angeles.Spanish soccer player Jenni Hermoso accuses Luis Rubiales of sexual assault for World Cup kissMADRID (AP) — Spanish state prosecutors say soccer player Jenni Hermoso has accused Luis Rubiales of sexual assault for kissing her on the lips without her consent after the Women's World Cup final. Rubiales is the suspended president of the Spanish soccer federation. He kissed Hermoso on the lips during the awards ceremony after Spain beat England to win the title on Aug. 20 in Sydney, Australia. Rubiales has insisted the kiss was consensual. Hermoso has denied that. Rubiales has since been suspended from his post by FIFA.Pro Picks: Mahomes, Chiefs up for a tough task vs. LionsThe Kansas City Chiefs will have Patrick Mahomes under center after they raise their championship banner and embark on a quest to become the first team to repeat in nearly two decades. Travis Kelce and Chris Jones may not be there. Kelce, the All-Pro tight end, is dealing with a knee injury. Jones, the All-Pro edge rusher, has been holding out for a new contract. Mahomes should be enough to squeak past the upstart Detroit Lions. Jared Goff is coming off a Pro Bowl season with the Lions, who have plenty of playmakers around him on offense. Stopping opponents from scoring was Detroit's problem last season and a revamped defense has to deal with Mahomes right away.College football picks: The Longhorns and Aggies have opportunities to make statements on the roadSince splitting up 11 years ago, No. 11 Texas and No. 23 Texas A&amp;M have traveled similarly underwhelming paths. They will be reunited next year when Texas joins the SEC so this is the last season where the rivalry plays out vicariously. This weekend is another opportunity for both to make a statement. Texas visits No. 3 Alabama for the return match of last season's one-point victory for the Crimson Tide. Texas A&amp;M has a road game against Miami.49ers sign Nick Bosa to a record-setting contract extension to end his lengthy holdoutSANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Nick Bosa's lengthy contract holdout ended four days before the start of the season for the San Francisco 49ers when he agreed to a contract extension that will make him the NFL's richest defensive player ever. Coach Kyle Shanahan said the two sides agreed to the contract and that Bosa is on his way to the team facility. Shanahan said he expects Bosa to be able to play in the season opener on Sunday at Pittsburgh despite missing all of training camp. ESPN first reported the extension and said it was worth $170 million over five seasons with $122.5 million guaranteed.Unruly fans singing Nazi songs and interrupting play with shouts cause problems at US OpenNEW YORK (AP) — Alexander Zverev felt he had to react when he heard a fan use language from Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime during his U.S. Open match. The man was throw out, as was another later Tuesday during Novak Djokovic's victory. Those ejections highlighted a challenge players and the event face as the U.S. Open draws the biggest crowds in its history. They want to make sure those fans are engaged, but not enough to disrupt the tennis — and how to handle it when they do.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Seattle	8	Cincinnati	4	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Cleveland	2	Minnesota	1	Final	Oakland	5	Toronto	2	Final	Tampa Bay	3	Boston	1	Final	N.Y. Yankees	4	Detroit	3	Final	Chicago White Sox	6	Kansas City	4	Final	Houston	12	Texas	3	Final	Baltimore	10	L.A. Angels	3	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	5	Milwaukee	4	Final	Chicago Cubs	8	San Francisco	2	Final	Arizona	12	Colorado	5	Final	Philadelphia	5	San Diego	1	Final	Miami	11	L.A. Dodgers	4	Final	Washington	3	N.Y. Mets	2	Final	St. Louis	11	Atlanta	6	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Atlanta	79	Seattle	68	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Seattle	at	Tampa Bay	6:40 p.m.			Detroit	at	N-Y Yankees	7:05 p.m.			Cleveland	at	L-A Angels	9:38 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		L-A Dodgers	at	Miami	6:40 p.m.			St. Louis	at	Atlanta	7:20 p.m.			Arizona	at	Chi Cubs	7:40 p.m.	___NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE		Detroit	at	Kansas City	8:20 p.m.	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Los Angeles	at	New York	7 p.m.	___

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Thursday

Courtesy of the Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs kick off their title-defense campaign on Thursday night in a matchup against the Detroit Lions.

Here are five things to keep in mind heading into game day.

1. Here's a look at the final injury report for both teams.

The Chiefs' lone designation is tight end Travis Kelce, who suffered a hyperextended knee during Tuesday's practice. Kelce is listed as questionable for the season-opener, so the next update on his status will be at 5:50 p.m. CT on Thursday when the game day inactives announcement takes place.

As for the Lions, they will officially be without cornerback Emmanuel Moseley (knee), who joined Detroit as a free agent during the offseason. Moseley has been working his way back to the field after suffering a torn ACL last season.

2. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is historically dominant in season-openers.

Mahomes has been nothing short of brilliant in Week 1 games during his young career, even by his lofty standards. The reigning league MVP has thrown for 18 touchdowns (with no interceptions) in five career season-openers. His Week 1 performances are as follows:

2018:&nbsp;256 passing yards and four touchdowns vs. the Chargers.

2019:&nbsp;378 passing yards and three touchdowns vs. Jacksonville.

2020:&nbsp;211 passing yards and three touchdowns vs. Houston.

2021:&nbsp;337 passing yards and three touchdowns vs. Cleveland.

2022:&nbsp;360 passing yards and five touchdowns vs. Arizona.

The most important statistic of all, of course, is that Mahomes is undefeated in those five season-opening games. Kansas City is the only team in the NFL to own a 5-0 record in Week 1 matchups since 2018.

3. The Lions' offense thrived when using play-action last season.

Detroit somewhat quietly assembled the fifth-highest scoring offense in the NFL last season, and upon a closer look, the Lions' success utilizing play-action was a significant reason why.

In fact, Lions' quarterback Jared Goff recorded the highest passer rating on play-action passing attempts of any qualified quarterback in the NFL last season, tallying a mark of 123.0. Goff tossed a league-most 16 touchdowns off play-action (with just three interceptions) while completing nine "big time throws," a Pro Football Focus metric that subjectively tallies passes that were particularly impressive. Only Patrick Mahomes (with 13) recorded more "big time throws" in play-action situations last season.

Conversely, Goff – whose 90.5 PFF "grade" in play-action passing situations last season trailed only Mahomes among quarterbacks with 400+ snaps – ranked 23rd in the NFL with a 61.8 "grade" when play-action wasn't used.

It's all to say that the Chiefs' ability to maintain discipline in play-action situations will be critical on Thursday, particularly as the Lions unveil a new-look backfield that features two new contributors who are each capable of catching the football. Detroit elected to move on from former running backs Jamaal Williams and D'Andre Swift during the offseason, which was a significant decision considering that they combined for 1,608 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns in 2022. The Lions replaced that duo with rookie Jahmyr Gibbs and veteran David Montgomery, who each offer a versatile skillset to Detroit's offense.

Gibbs, in particular, was the No. 12 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft just a few months ago. The former Alabama standout, who led the Crimson Tide in both rushing yards and catches last season, presents a unique challenge for the Chiefs' defense on Thursday.

"He didn't play a lot in the preseason – there were a couple snaps in there – but we have looked at Alabama film," said Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. "They found ways to get him the ball out on the perimeter. We expect this team to do the same thing. He's really good with the ball in his hands. It's all eyeballs on No. 26 whenever he goes in the game…We have to know where he is. With a guy who is that explosive, they're going to find ways to get him the ball."

As far as the passing game goes, Lions' wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is the primary name to know. St. Brown racked up 106 catches last season – the ninth-most in the NFL – for 1,161 yards and six touchdowns. The third-year wide receiver was targeted at least six times in 14 of his 16 games last year.

4. The battle between the Chiefs' new tackles and the Lions' pass-rush will be critical.

The Chiefs feature two new offensive tackles this season as veteran Donovan Smith prepares to anchor the left side while Jawaan Taylor protects the right. Both players enter this upcoming season with impressive resumes, and the Chiefs will need them at their best on Thursday night as Kansas City faces a young and talented Lions' defensive front. Notably, the Chiefs will need to slow down defensive end Aidan Hutchinson – the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft – who led all rookies in sacks last season with 9.5.

Detroit yielded the most yards-per-game of any team in the NFL last season (392.4), but they shouldn't be overlooked. Containing Hutchinson and the rest of the Lions' pass-rush will be key, and it provides a significant first test for the Chiefs' new tackles.

5. Kansas City will look to maintain its ridiculous stretch of success vs. NFC opponents.

The Chiefs have amassed a historic run of success against NFC opponents in recent seasons. In fact, Kansas City has won an incredible 16 consecutive regular-season games against the NFC. It marks the second-longest interconference winning streak in the Super Bowl Era, trailing only the New England Patriots streak of 17 straight games from 2005 to 2009.

Taken a step further, the Chiefs are a staggering 21-4 vs. NFC opponents since 2018 when including the playoffs. Those 21 victories are more than three NFC teams have against their own conference in that span.

It all makes for a potentially thrilling matchup on Thursday night as the Chiefs kick off their title-defense campaign on the global stage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694055371058.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy Kansas City Chiefs)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy Kansas City Chiefs)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of the Kansas City ChiefsThe Kansas City Chiefs kick off their title-defense campaign on Thursday night in a matchup against the Detroit Lions.Here are five things to keep in mind heading into game day.1. Here's a look at the final injury report for both teams.The Chiefs' lone designation is tight end Travis Kelce, who suffered a hyperextended knee during Tuesday's practice. Kelce is listed as questionable for the season-opener, so the next update on his status will be at 5:50 p.m. CT on Thursday when the game day inactives announcement takes place.As for the Lions, they will officially be without cornerback Emmanuel Moseley (knee), who joined Detroit as a free agent during the offseason. Moseley has been working his way back to the field after suffering a torn ACL last season.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here&#39;s the final injury report for the Chiefs and Lions. Travis Kelce (knee) is officially listed as questionable. <a href="https://t.co/aROscAJaFI">pic.twitter.com/aROscAJaFI</a>&mdash; Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) <a href="https://twitter.com/KCChiefs_Matt/status/1699519601879458145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>2. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is historically dominant in season-openers.Mahomes has been nothing short of brilliant in Week 1 games during his young career, even by his lofty standards. The reigning league MVP has thrown for 18 touchdowns (with no interceptions) in five career season-openers. His Week 1 performances are as follows:2018:&nbsp;256 passing yards and four touchdowns vs. the Chargers.2019:&nbsp;378 passing yards and three touchdowns vs. Jacksonville.2020:&nbsp;211 passing yards and three touchdowns vs. Houston.2021:&nbsp;337 passing yards and three touchdowns vs. Cleveland.2022:&nbsp;360 passing yards and five touchdowns vs. Arizona.The most important statistic of all, of course, is that Mahomes is undefeated in those five season-opening games. Kansas City is the only team in the NFL to own a 5-0 record in Week 1 matchups since 2018.3. The Lions' offense thrived when using play-action last season.Detroit somewhat quietly assembled the fifth-highest scoring offense in the NFL last season, and upon a closer look, the Lions' success utilizing play-action was a significant reason why.In fact, Lions' quarterback Jared Goff recorded the highest passer rating on play-action passing attempts of any qualified quarterback in the NFL last season, tallying a mark of 123.0. Goff tossed a league-most 16 touchdowns off play-action (with just three interceptions) while completing nine "big time throws," a Pro Football Focus metric that subjectively tallies passes that were particularly impressive. Only Patrick Mahomes (with 13) recorded more "big time throws" in play-action situations last season.Conversely, Goff – whose 90.5 PFF "grade" in play-action passing situations last season trailed only Mahomes among quarterbacks with 400+ snaps – ranked 23rd in the NFL with a 61.8 "grade" when play-action wasn't used.It's all to say that the Chiefs' ability to maintain discipline in play-action situations will be critical on Thursday, particularly as the Lions unveil a new-look backfield that features two new contributors who are each capable of catching the football. Detroit elected to move on from former running backs Jamaal Williams and D'Andre Swift during the offseason, which was a significant decision considering that they combined for 1,608 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns in 2022. The Lions replaced that duo with rookie Jahmyr Gibbs and veteran David Montgomery, who each offer a versatile skillset to Detroit's offense.Gibbs, in particular, was the No. 12 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft just a few months ago. The former Alabama standout, who led the Crimson Tide in both rushing yards and catches last season, presents a unique challenge for the Chiefs' defense on Thursday."He didn't play a lot in the preseason – there were a couple snaps in there – but we have looked at Alabama film," said Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. "They found ways to get him the ball out on the perimeter. We expect this team to do the same thing. He's really good with the ball in his hands. It's all eyeballs on No. 26 whenever he goes in the game…We have to know where he is. With a guy who is that explosive, they're going to find ways to get him the ball."As far as the passing game goes, Lions' wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is the primary name to know. St. Brown racked up 106 catches last season – the ninth-most in the NFL – for 1,161 yards and six touchdowns. The third-year wide receiver was targeted at least six times in 14 of his 16 games last year.4. The battle between the Chiefs' new tackles and the Lions' pass-rush will be critical.The Chiefs feature two new offensive tackles this season as veteran Donovan Smith prepares to anchor the left side while Jawaan Taylor protects the right. Both players enter this upcoming season with impressive resumes, and the Chiefs will need them at their best on Thursday night as Kansas City faces a young and talented Lions' defensive front. Notably, the Chiefs will need to slow down defensive end Aidan Hutchinson – the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft – who led all rookies in sacks last season with 9.5.Detroit yielded the most yards-per-game of any team in the NFL last season (392.4), but they shouldn't be overlooked. Containing Hutchinson and the rest of the Lions' pass-rush will be key, and it provides a significant first test for the Chiefs' new tackles.5. Kansas City will look to maintain its ridiculous stretch of success vs. NFC opponents.The Chiefs have amassed a historic run of success against NFC opponents in recent seasons. In fact, Kansas City has won an incredible 16 consecutive regular-season games against the NFC. It marks the second-longest interconference winning streak in the Super Bowl Era, trailing only the New England Patriots streak of 17 straight games from 2005 to 2009.Taken a step further, the Chiefs are a staggering 21-4 vs. NFC opponents since 2018 when including the playoffs. Those 21 victories are more than three NFC teams have against their own conference in that span.It all makes for a potentially thrilling matchup on Thursday night as the Chiefs kick off their title-defense campaign on the global stage.

🏈 Five things to watch on Thursday | Lions vs. Chiefs

Courtesy of HutchCC Athletic Department

He only touched the ball nine times on Saturday, but Hutchinson Community College freshman running back&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/reed_jr._tyrell_3b4y">Tyrell Reed Jr.</a>&nbsp;made those touches count.

The freshman from Topeka had just nine carries for 171 yards and three touchdowns against Ellsworth in a 72-7 Blue Dragon victory on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

One day after being named the KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week, Reed followed that honor with an NJCAA National Offensive Player of Week award, announced Wednesday.

This is the second-straight week a Blue Dragon has earned national player of the week honors.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/richardson_tre_3jar">Tre Richardson</a>&nbsp;was national Special Teams Player of the week.

Just four carries into his afternoon, Reed had 135 yards rushing on runs of 26, 39, 1 and 69 yards.

Reed scored on touchdowns of 26, 69 and 20 yards against the Panthers.

Reed is the first Blue Dragon to earn national Offensive Player of the Week honors since Dylan Kedzior last season.

BLUE DRAGON NJCAA NATIONAL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK August 30 –&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/richardson_tre_3jar">Tre Richardson</a>&nbsp;(Special Teams) September 6 –&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/reed_jr._tyrell_3b4y">Tyrell Reed Jr.</a>&nbsp;(Offense)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694031581730.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy HutchCC Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy HutchCC Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC Athletic DepartmentHe only touched the ball nine times on Saturday, but Hutchinson Community College freshman running back&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/reed_jr._tyrell_3b4y">Tyrell Reed Jr.</a>&nbsp;made those touches count.The freshman from Topeka had just nine carries for 171 yards and three touchdowns against Ellsworth in a 72-7 Blue Dragon victory on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.One day after being named the KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week, Reed followed that honor with an NJCAA National Offensive Player of Week award, announced Wednesday.This is the second-straight week a Blue Dragon has earned national player of the week honors.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/richardson_tre_3jar">Tre Richardson</a>&nbsp;was national Special Teams Player of the week.Just four carries into his afternoon, Reed had 135 yards rushing on runs of 26, 39, 1 and 69 yards.Reed scored on touchdowns of 26, 69 and 20 yards against the Panthers.Reed is the first Blue Dragon to earn national Offensive Player of the Week honors since Dylan Kedzior last season.BLUE DRAGON NJCAA NATIONAL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK August 30 –&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/richardson_tre_3jar">Tre Richardson</a>&nbsp;(Special Teams) September 6 –&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2023-24/bios/reed_jr._tyrell_3b4y">Tyrell Reed Jr.</a>&nbsp;(Offense)

🏈 HutchCC's Reed Jr. named NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Week

Hutchinson Community College women's soccer forward&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/delgado_adriana_03x3">Adriana Delgado</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Division I National Player of the Week after back-to-back games last week where she established or tied several career highs.

The sophomore forward from Wichita, had six goals and three assists for a 15-point week in three games, all Blue Dragon victories.

Against Dodge City, Delgado netted the game winner, tying her career high with two goals and establishing a new career bests with two assist and six points in a 4-1 victory.

Delgado reset her career highs for goals and points with four goals and nine points in a 10-0 rout of Crowder. Delgado's hat trick is the 98th in program history.

Delgado is the second-straight Blue Dragon to earn conference weekly honors, joining&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/edwards_kaitlyn_56gt">Kaitlyn Edwards</a>, who won the award last week.

Delgado is the first Blue Dragon to earn national honors since Madison Quarles as named national goalkeeper of the week on October 22, 2022. She is the first national Player of the Week since October 28, 2021 when Hadlie Lowe earned the award.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694031500717.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy HutchCC Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy HutchCC Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC Athletic DepartmentHutchinson Community College women's soccer forward&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/delgado_adriana_03x3">Adriana Delgado</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Division I National Player of the Week after back-to-back games last week where she established or tied several career highs.The sophomore forward from Wichita, had six goals and three assists for a 15-point week in three games, all Blue Dragon victories.Against Dodge City, Delgado netted the game winner, tying her career high with two goals and establishing a new career bests with two assist and six points in a 4-1 victory.Delgado reset her career highs for goals and points with four goals and nine points in a 10-0 rout of Crowder. Delgado's hat trick is the 98th in program history.Delgado is the second-straight Blue Dragon to earn conference weekly honors, joining&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2023-24/bios/edwards_kaitlyn_56gt">Kaitlyn Edwards</a>, who won the award last week.Delgado is the first Blue Dragon to earn national honors since Madison Quarles as named national goalkeeper of the week on October 22, 2022. She is the first national Player of the Week since October 28, 2021 when Hadlie Lowe earned the award.

⚽ WSOC: HutchCC's Delgado named NJCAA DI National Player of the Week

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones, who has been in the midst of a contract dispute, left open the possibility that he could be on the field for the Kansas City Chiefs when they open the season on Thursday night against the Detroit Lions.

Jones has been working out in Miami throughout the offseason and training camp while his agents, Jason and Michael Katz, negotiate with the Chiefs on a potential extension. Jones is entering the final year of a four-year, $80 million deal, and said in his first public comments Wednesday that he "just wants a raise" like any other employee in any line of work.

"Hopefully it gets worked out," said Jones, who was accompanied by the Katz brothers on a trip to visit with kids at Ronald McDonald House Charities. "It's always been my goal to be a Kansas City Chief for life. I've said that multiple time on social media platforms, from interviews, and they know where my position is at."

More than 40 local families at the Ronald McDonald House, which is dedicated to supporting families with sick children in their time of need, were able to meet with Jones during his appearance in Kansas City.

The 29-year-old pass rusher already has accrued millions in fines for missing mandatory workouts, training camp and preseason games. If Jones does not report before Thursday, he will begin losing about $1.1 million in weekly game checks.

Asked whether he felt he had let anybody down by not reporting, Jones replied: "How?"

"That's what I have to ask," Jones continued. "How have I let them down? It's just like when you're at a job, you're asking for a raise, who are you letting down? When you take the personal feelings out of it, you can kind of get it."

Jones is coming off perhaps his best season, matching a career high with 15 1/2 sacks on the way to a Super Bowl title.

His absence from the Kansas City defense could be particularly damaging given the loss of defensive end Charles Omenihu, who is suspended for six games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. That has left youngsters George Karlaftis, entering his second year, and first-round draft pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah as the Chiefs' main pass rushers.

The market for defensive tackles, set by Aaron Donald with a three-year, $95 million deal, skyrocketed this past offseason. The Giants' Dexter Lawrence and the Commanders' Daron Payne each signed four-year, $90 million pacts, the Titans' Jeffrey Simmons signed for four years and $95 million, and the Jets' Quinnen Williams agreed to a four-year, $96 million deal.

The Chiefs and Jones' representatives were at an impasse until about a week ago, when general manager Brett Veach said their communication had increased in recent days. Veach was even optimistic that Jones would be available against Detroit.

"We're going to continue to press on and work hard," he said. "A lot of respect on both sides of this thing. It's been well-stated how we feel about Chris and he feels the same thing. We're just going to keep working on this thing."

Chiefs coach Andy Reid was blunt when asked about Jones after their final practice Tuesday. Reid declined to say whether he has been involved in negotiations and has continually said that his focus is solely on the players that are available.

"That's where I'm at," Reid said. "If you're not there, you're not there. Unfortunately, that's the name of the game, so you can't spend time — you have got to exhaust your time on the team you're playing. So that's where we're at."

Turns out there's a chance, however slight it may be, that Jones could be there against the Lions on Thursday night.

"I've been keeping in contact with my teammates. I've been working out every day, doing similar things to what they're doing in training camp," he said. "I'll be ready when the time comes."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692828024515.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones, who has been in the midst of a contract dispute, left open the possibility that he could be on the field for the Kansas City Chiefs when they open the season on Thursday night against the Detroit Lions.Jones has been working out in Miami throughout the offseason and training camp while his agents, Jason and Michael Katz, negotiate with the Chiefs on a potential extension. Jones is entering the final year of a four-year, $80 million deal, and said in his first public comments Wednesday that he "just wants a raise" like any other employee in any line of work."Hopefully it gets worked out," said Jones, who was accompanied by the Katz brothers on a trip to visit with kids at Ronald McDonald House Charities. "It's always been my goal to be a Kansas City Chief for life. I've said that multiple time on social media platforms, from interviews, and they know where my position is at."More than 40 local families at the Ronald McDonald House, which is dedicated to supporting families with sick children in their time of need, were able to meet with Jones during his appearance in Kansas City.The 29-year-old pass rusher already has accrued millions in fines for missing mandatory workouts, training camp and preseason games. If Jones does not report before Thursday, he will begin losing about $1.1 million in weekly game checks.Asked whether he felt he had let anybody down by not reporting, Jones replied: "How?""That's what I have to ask," Jones continued. "How have I let them down? It's just like when you're at a job, you're asking for a raise, who are you letting down? When you take the personal feelings out of it, you can kind of get it."Jones is coming off perhaps his best season, matching a career high with 15 1/2 sacks on the way to a Super Bowl title.His absence from the Kansas City defense could be particularly damaging given the loss of defensive end Charles Omenihu, who is suspended for six games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. That has left youngsters George Karlaftis, entering his second year, and first-round draft pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah as the Chiefs' main pass rushers.The market for defensive tackles, set by Aaron Donald with a three-year, $95 million deal, skyrocketed this past offseason. The Giants' Dexter Lawrence and the Commanders' Daron Payne each signed four-year, $90 million pacts, the Titans' Jeffrey Simmons signed for four years and $95 million, and the Jets' Quinnen Williams agreed to a four-year, $96 million deal.The Chiefs and Jones' representatives were at an impasse until about a week ago, when general manager Brett Veach said their communication had increased in recent days. Veach was even optimistic that Jones would be available against Detroit."We're going to continue to press on and work hard," he said. "A lot of respect on both sides of this thing. It's been well-stated how we feel about Chris and he feels the same thing. We're just going to keep working on this thing."Chiefs coach Andy Reid was blunt when asked about Jones after their final practice Tuesday. Reid declined to say whether he has been involved in negotiations and has continually said that his focus is solely on the players that are available."That's where I'm at," Reid said. "If you're not there, you're not there. Unfortunately, that's the name of the game, so you can't spend time — you have got to exhaust your time on the team you're playing. So that's where we're at."Turns out there's a chance, however slight it may be, that Jones could be there against the Lions on Thursday night."I've been keeping in contact with my teammates. I've been working out every day, doing similar things to what they're doing in training camp," he said. "I'll be ready when the time comes."

🏈 Chiefs All-Pro Chris Jones amid holdout as season approaches: 'I just want a raise'

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics



WICHITA, Kan. --&nbsp;The Wichita State baseball team will be hosting the Shocker Golf Classic presented by Tony's Drywall on Friday, October 20 at Tallgrass&nbsp;Country Club.

The four-person scramble&nbsp;begins with a shotgun start at 12:00 pm&nbsp;at Tallgrass,&nbsp;located at 2400 North Tallgrass Street in Wichita. Single entry fee is $300 per player or $1,000 per team, tax-deductible. Green fee, cart, range balls, lunch, beverages, swag bag and tournament prizes are included in the fee. Registration begins at 11:00 am.

Current Wichita State players and staff will be assisting with the event throughout the day, providing a unique opportunity&nbsp;to get to know the members of the 2024 roster.

Hole sponsorship is $150, all tax-deductible.&nbsp;For donations, sponsorship or more information contact Chris Spall at cspall@goshockers.com or at 316-978-7276.To sign a team up or make a donation, click on this&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/www/ev_wichita/ss/ev/SpecialEvent?specialEvent=BGT23&amp;siteId=ev_wichita&amp;locale=en_US&amp;linkID=wichita">link</a>&nbsp;and follow these steps:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694023339940.png" alt="(Courtesy Wichita State Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy Wichita State Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics

WICHITA, Kan. --&nbsp;The Wichita State baseball team will be hosting the Shocker Golf Classic presented by Tony's Drywall on Friday, October 20 at Tallgrass&nbsp;Country Club.The four-person scramble&nbsp;begins with a shotgun start at 12:00 pm&nbsp;at Tallgrass,&nbsp;located at 2400 North Tallgrass Street in Wichita. Single entry fee is $300 per player or $1,000 per team, tax-deductible. Green fee, cart, range balls, lunch, beverages, swag bag and tournament prizes are included in the fee. Registration begins at 11:00 am.Current Wichita State players and staff will be assisting with the event throughout the day, providing a unique opportunity&nbsp;to get to know the members of the 2024 roster.Hole sponsorship is $150, all tax-deductible.&nbsp;For donations, sponsorship or more information contact Chris Spall at cspall@goshockers.com or at 316-978-7276.To sign a team up or make a donation, click on this&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/www/ev_wichita/ss/ev/SpecialEvent?specialEvent=BGT23&amp;siteId=ev_wichita&amp;locale=en_US&amp;linkID=wichita">link</a>&nbsp;and follow these steps:<ul>
 <li>Enter your registration information.</li><li>If you&nbsp;have&nbsp;previously made a SASO contribution or purchased tickets online, select Sign In.</li><li>If you have&nbsp;not&nbsp;previously made a SASO contribution or purchased tickets online but you do have a SASO/Ticket account, select Activate Account and use your Customer Number and Online PIN to link your online account to your main SASO/season ticket account.</li><li>If you do not have a Ticket/SASO account, select&nbsp;Continue&nbsp;under Create Account.</li><li>If you need assistance logging in, please call 978-3267 option 5.</li>
 </ul>

⛳ Shocker baseball golf classic scheduled for Oct. 20

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686627047967.jpeg" alt="Eagle Media Sports for Wednesday, September 6th, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Media Sports for Wednesday, September 6th, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="September 6th, 2023 Morning Sports" 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=uqw4e-149afa2-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

LISTEN: Early Morning Sports for September 6th, 2023

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694003981632.png" alt="Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Dragon Talk with Coach Drew Dallas - Sept. 5th, 2023" 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=89eex-149af8d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

LISTEN: Dragon Talk with Coach Drew Dallas from September 5th, 2023

AP Sports Summary for September 6th, 2023.

Altuve homers 3 times, Maldonado twice as Astros pummel reeling Rangers 14-1

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Jose Altuve homered his first three times up, starting with a pair off All-Star right-hander Nathan Eovaldi in his return from the injured list, and the Houston Astros pummeled the Texas Rangers 14-1. The third homer was to center field off Dane Dunning, a starter who came out of the bullpen to clear the way for Eovaldi to start coming off a right forearm strain. Martín Maldonado homered twice and Yordan Alvarez connected for his 24th as the Astros set a Globe Life Field record with six long balls.

Ben Shelton tops Frances Tiafoe at the US Open for his first Slam semifinal. Novak Djokovic is next

NEW YORK (AP) — Ben Shelton has reached his first major semifinal by beating Frances Tiafoe in four sets at the U.S. Open. It was the first Grand Slam quarterfinal between two African-American men in the professional era. After a victory that ended after midnight on Wednesday, the 20-year-old Shelton will face 23-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Friday for a berth in the final. Djokovic reached his record 47th Grand Slam by defeating Taylor Fritz 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 on a steamy Tuesday afternoon. Djokovic improved to 13-0 for his career in quarterfinals at Flushing Meadows — and to 8-0 against Fritz, an American who was seeded No. 9.

Colorado, Duke surge into the AP Top 25 after huge upsets; Florida State climbs into top five

No. 21 Duke and No. 22 Colorado have jumped into the Associated Press Top 25 college football poll after scoring the biggest upsets of the opening weekend of the season. No. 4 Florida State also climbed into the top-five with a resounding victory over LSU, which dropped from fifth to No. 14. Georgia remained No. 1 and Michigan held steady at No. 2. No. 3 Alabama moved up a spot and Florida State climbed four places and received three first-place votes. Ohio State dropped two places to round out the top five.

Chiefs' All-Pro TE Travis Kelce hyperextends knee in practice for opener vs Detroit

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Tight end Travis Kelce hyperextended his knee during the Chiefs' final practice before their opener against Detroit on Tuesday, leaving his status in question for Thursday night's game. Chiefs coach Andy Reid said the injury occurred during their final full workout Tuesday but provided no other details. The 33-year-old Kelce has not missed a game to injury since his rookie year in 2013, which he had a microfracture procedure to fix a cartilage problem in his knee. He has twice been held out of meaningless games to end the regular season.

MLB investigating after Urías' arrest on felony charge of corporal injury on a spouse

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Major League Baseball has opened an investigation into Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urías after he was arrested Sunday on a felony charge of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. A Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman confirmed the charge Tuesday. Urías did not travel with the Dodgers to Miami, where they open a three-game series against the Marlins on Tuesday night. He was scheduled to make his next start Thursday. Urías was arrested late Sunday night by Department of Public Safety officers in Exposition Park, south of downtown Los Angeles. The park is home to BMO Stadium, where Lionel Messi was playing in a Major League Soccer game with numerous celebrities in attendance.

Coco Gauff reaches her first US Open semifinal at 19. Ben Shelton gets to his first at 20

NEW YORK (AP) — Coco Gauff has reached the U.S. Open semifinals for the first time by eliminating 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko 6-0, 6-2 on a steamy afternoon. Gauff is a 19-year-old from Florida who is the first American teenager to reach the final four at Flushing Meadows since Serena Williams in 2001. This was the 16th victory in her past 17 matches for Gauff. She will No. 10 Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic on Thursday with a berth in the final at stake. Muchova beat No. 30 Sorana Cirstea 6-0, 6-3. Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton set up a meeting in the men's semifinals.

No. 22 Colorado off to flying start by following lead of unconventional coach Deion Sanders

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Deion Sanders wants his players reading all about how good they are because the Colorado coach isn't one to keep his players grounded. He prefers them flying high. After beating heavily favored TCU last weekend, the Buffaloes moved into the AP Top 25 poll at No. 22. The unconventional Sanders is proving to be a master motivator. He's all about not running from publicity but remembering it. He has his team at the center of the college football universe, at least for now. The 22nd-ranked Buffs will host old rival Nebraska this Saturday in the home debut for Sanders.

USA rolls past Italy 100-63 to reach Basketball World Cup semifinals

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The United States is headed to the medal round of the Basketball World Cup after bouncing back from its first loss of the tournament in emphatic fashion. Mikal Bridges scored 14 of his 24 points in the first half and the U.S. was airtight for long stretches defensively on the way to beating Italy 100-63 on Tuesday night in the quarterfinals of the World Cup. The win ensures the 15th top-four finish for the Americans in 19 World Cups. They'll play either Germany or Latvia in Friday's semifinals.

Coach of Spain's World Cup-winning women's soccer team is fired weeks after victory celebration kiss

MADRID (AP) — The coach of Spain's World Cup-winning women's soccer team has been fired. The announcement Tuesday came less than three weeks after the victory celebration that led to the suspension of the country's soccer federation president for kissing a player. The Spanish soccer federation offered no immediate explanation for the dismissal of coach Jorge Vilda. The federation says Vilda was key to the growth of women's soccer and thanked him for leading the national team to the World Cup title and to No. 2 in the FIFA rankings. Vilda was among those who at first applauded federation president Luis Rubiales when he refused to quit.

Say cheese: Ohtani body double finds way into Angels' team photo

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — It is next to impossible to replace all that Shohei Ohtani can do when standing on a baseball field, although the Los Angeles Angels did their best for a few minutes Tuesday. With Ohtani unavailable for team photo day, as he continues to be examined for oblique soreness that cropped up Monday, the team put a body double in a No. 17 jersey and lined him up in the outfield with the rest of the players. After the photo was completed, the Ohtani imposter was ushered out of a tunnel beyond the left field wall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688383699667.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Wednesday Morning, September 6th, 2023." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Wednesday Morning, September 6th, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="September 6th, 2023 Morning Sports" 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=uqw4e-149afa2-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for September 6th, 2023.Altuve homers 3 times, Maldonado twice as Astros pummel reeling Rangers 14-1ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Jose Altuve homered his first three times up, starting with a pair off All-Star right-hander Nathan Eovaldi in his return from the injured list, and the Houston Astros pummeled the Texas Rangers 14-1. The third homer was to center field off Dane Dunning, a starter who came out of the bullpen to clear the way for Eovaldi to start coming off a right forearm strain. Martín Maldonado homered twice and Yordan Alvarez connected for his 24th as the Astros set a Globe Life Field record with six long balls.Ben Shelton tops Frances Tiafoe at the US Open for his first Slam semifinal. Novak Djokovic is nextNEW YORK (AP) — Ben Shelton has reached his first major semifinal by beating Frances Tiafoe in four sets at the U.S. Open. It was the first Grand Slam quarterfinal between two African-American men in the professional era. After a victory that ended after midnight on Wednesday, the 20-year-old Shelton will face 23-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Friday for a berth in the final. Djokovic reached his record 47th Grand Slam by defeating Taylor Fritz 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 on a steamy Tuesday afternoon. Djokovic improved to 13-0 for his career in quarterfinals at Flushing Meadows — and to 8-0 against Fritz, an American who was seeded No. 9.Colorado, Duke surge into the AP Top 25 after huge upsets; Florida State climbs into top fiveNo. 21 Duke and No. 22 Colorado have jumped into the Associated Press Top 25 college football poll after scoring the biggest upsets of the opening weekend of the season. No. 4 Florida State also climbed into the top-five with a resounding victory over LSU, which dropped from fifth to No. 14. Georgia remained No. 1 and Michigan held steady at No. 2. No. 3 Alabama moved up a spot and Florida State climbed four places and received three first-place votes. Ohio State dropped two places to round out the top five.Chiefs' All-Pro TE Travis Kelce hyperextends knee in practice for opener vs DetroitKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Tight end Travis Kelce hyperextended his knee during the Chiefs' final practice before their opener against Detroit on Tuesday, leaving his status in question for Thursday night's game. Chiefs coach Andy Reid said the injury occurred during their final full workout Tuesday but provided no other details. The 33-year-old Kelce has not missed a game to injury since his rookie year in 2013, which he had a microfracture procedure to fix a cartilage problem in his knee. He has twice been held out of meaningless games to end the regular season.MLB investigating after Urías' arrest on felony charge of corporal injury on a spouseLOS ANGELES (AP) — Major League Baseball has opened an investigation into Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urías after he was arrested Sunday on a felony charge of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. A Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman confirmed the charge Tuesday. Urías did not travel with the Dodgers to Miami, where they open a three-game series against the Marlins on Tuesday night. He was scheduled to make his next start Thursday. Urías was arrested late Sunday night by Department of Public Safety officers in Exposition Park, south of downtown Los Angeles. The park is home to BMO Stadium, where Lionel Messi was playing in a Major League Soccer game with numerous celebrities in attendance.Coco Gauff reaches her first US Open semifinal at 19. Ben Shelton gets to his first at 20NEW YORK (AP) — Coco Gauff has reached the U.S. Open semifinals for the first time by eliminating 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko 6-0, 6-2 on a steamy afternoon. Gauff is a 19-year-old from Florida who is the first American teenager to reach the final four at Flushing Meadows since Serena Williams in 2001. This was the 16th victory in her past 17 matches for Gauff. She will No. 10 Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic on Thursday with a berth in the final at stake. Muchova beat No. 30 Sorana Cirstea 6-0, 6-3. Novak Djokovic and Ben Shelton set up a meeting in the men's semifinals.No. 22 Colorado off to flying start by following lead of unconventional coach Deion SandersBOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Deion Sanders wants his players reading all about how good they are because the Colorado coach isn't one to keep his players grounded. He prefers them flying high. After beating heavily favored TCU last weekend, the Buffaloes moved into the AP Top 25 poll at No. 22. The unconventional Sanders is proving to be a master motivator. He's all about not running from publicity but remembering it. He has his team at the center of the college football universe, at least for now. The 22nd-ranked Buffs will host old rival Nebraska this Saturday in the home debut for Sanders.USA rolls past Italy 100-63 to reach Basketball World Cup semifinalsMANILA, Philippines (AP) — The United States is headed to the medal round of the Basketball World Cup after bouncing back from its first loss of the tournament in emphatic fashion. Mikal Bridges scored 14 of his 24 points in the first half and the U.S. was airtight for long stretches defensively on the way to beating Italy 100-63 on Tuesday night in the quarterfinals of the World Cup. The win ensures the 15th top-four finish for the Americans in 19 World Cups. They'll play either Germany or Latvia in Friday's semifinals.Coach of Spain's World Cup-winning women's soccer team is fired weeks after victory celebration kissMADRID (AP) — The coach of Spain's World Cup-winning women's soccer team has been fired. The announcement Tuesday came less than three weeks after the victory celebration that led to the suspension of the country's soccer federation president for kissing a player. The Spanish soccer federation offered no immediate explanation for the dismissal of coach Jorge Vilda. The federation says Vilda was key to the growth of women's soccer and thanked him for leading the national team to the World Cup title and to No. 2 in the FIFA rankings. Vilda was among those who at first applauded federation president Luis Rubiales when he refused to quit.Say cheese: Ohtani body double finds way into Angels' team photoANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — It is next to impossible to replace all that Shohei Ohtani can do when standing on a baseball field, although the Los Angeles Angels did their best for a few minutes Tuesday. With Ohtani unavailable for team photo day, as he continues to be examined for oblique soreness that cropped up Monday, the team put a body double in a No. 17 jersey and lined him up in the outfield with the rest of the players. After the photo was completed, the Ohtani imposter was ushered out of a tunnel beyond the left field wall.AP-ScorecardTODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Cincinnati	7	Seattle	6	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Minnesota	8	Cleveland	3	Final	N.Y. Yankees	5	Detroit	1	Final	Kansas City	7	Chicago White Sox	6	Final	Houston	14	Texas	1	Final	Tampa Bay	8	Boston	6	Final	Toronto	7	Oakland	1	Final	Baltimore	5	L.A. Angels	4	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Miami	6	L.A. Dodgers	3	Final	Milwaukee	7	Pittsburgh	3	Final	N.Y. Mets	11	Washington	5	Final	St. Louis	10	Atlanta	6	Final	Chicago Cubs	11	San Francisco	8	Final	San Diego	8	Philadelphia	0	Final	Colorado	3	Arizona	2	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Chicago	96	Indiana	69	Final	Connecticut	90	Los Angeles	76	Final	New York	94	Dallas	93	Final	Washington	100	Phoenix	77	___

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Wednesday

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - Wichita battled Corpus Christi in what was a one-run ball game until the bottom of the eighth. The Hooks drove in three runs in the bottom of the eighth and earned themselves enough cushion to hold on for the win. Corpus Christi defeated Wichita by a score of 5-1 and the Hooks now lead the series one game to none.

The Wind Surge took an early lead in the top of the fourth when Alex Isola hit his 19th home run of the season. The two-out solo home run flew over the left field wall.

The Hooks tied the game in the bottom of the fifth inning. Kenedy Corona hit a sacrifice fly to center field that drove in a run from third base.

Corpus Christi took the lead in the bottom of the sixth. Jacob Melton hit a solo home run that flew over the right field wall.

The Hooks drove in some insurance runs in the bottom of the eighth. Melton hit a two RBI single on a ground ball to left field. He then reached third on a two-base throwing error and J.C. Correa hit a single on a ground ball to right field that brought Melton home.

Jaylin Nowlin made his sixth start of the season on the mound for the Wichita Wind Surge. He pitched five innings where he gave up one run off two hits. He struck out six batters and walked three more.

The Corpus Christi Hooks starting pitcher Aaron Brown pitched five and two thirds innings where he gave up one run off four hits. He struck out two batters and walked one more.

The first place Wichita Wind Surge fall to (32-26, 60-66) and the Corpus Christi Hooks improve to (30-28, 63-64).

NOTES: Minor League Baseball named Wind Surge pitcher Pierson Ohl Texas League Pitcher of the Month for August. The Minnesota Twins named infielder Seth Gray The Harmon Killebrew Award winner for outstanding work in the community. The Wind Surge promoted Michael Helman to Class AAA St Paul. The Surge add infielder Ben Ross from Class A Cedar Rapids. Wichita activated P Isaac Mattson from the development roster. Yoyner Fajardo has now reached base in 20 consecutive games. Wille Joe Garry Jr. saw his eight-game hit streak come to an end.

BROADCAST: Milb First Pitch App,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,dexWbEMmO2SNZFacaCKfVJIV48UFXNwoAwE4zyM2KXaD_HSgx84zoOHAglON-gUjtBR3aBrV7b7fNPJsxVGXCgYR5cYPta1xJgIbXkHri2NTnYdJ6WV7jsuz044,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Windsurge.com</a>, MiLB.tv and Bally Live app.

UPCOMING: The Wind Surge continue their final road series of the season down south in Corpus Christi. Game two of the six game series against the Hooks will be played Wednesday, September 6th and first pitch will be at 6:35 PM. RH Carlos Luna will take the mound for Wichita and Blair Henley will be the starting pitcher for Corpus Christi.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693981190121.jpeg" alt="Surge lose to Corpus Christi" />
 <figcaption>Surge lose to Corpus Christi</figcaption>
 </figure>CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - Wichita battled Corpus Christi in what was a one-run ball game until the bottom of the eighth. The Hooks drove in three runs in the bottom of the eighth and earned themselves enough cushion to hold on for the win. Corpus Christi defeated Wichita by a score of 5-1 and the Hooks now lead the series one game to none.The Wind Surge took an early lead in the top of the fourth when Alex Isola hit his 19th home run of the season. The two-out solo home run flew over the left field wall.The Hooks tied the game in the bottom of the fifth inning. Kenedy Corona hit a sacrifice fly to center field that drove in a run from third base.Corpus Christi took the lead in the bottom of the sixth. Jacob Melton hit a solo home run that flew over the right field wall.The Hooks drove in some insurance runs in the bottom of the eighth. Melton hit a two RBI single on a ground ball to left field. He then reached third on a two-base throwing error and J.C. Correa hit a single on a ground ball to right field that brought Melton home.Jaylin Nowlin made his sixth start of the season on the mound for the Wichita Wind Surge. He pitched five innings where he gave up one run off two hits. He struck out six batters and walked three more.The Corpus Christi Hooks starting pitcher Aaron Brown pitched five and two thirds innings where he gave up one run off four hits. He struck out two batters and walked one more.The first place Wichita Wind Surge fall to (32-26, 60-66) and the Corpus Christi Hooks improve to (30-28, 63-64).NOTES: Minor League Baseball named Wind Surge pitcher Pierson Ohl Texas League Pitcher of the Month for August. The Minnesota Twins named infielder Seth Gray The Harmon Killebrew Award winner for outstanding work in the community. The Wind Surge promoted Michael Helman to Class AAA St Paul. The Surge add infielder Ben Ross from Class A Cedar Rapids. Wichita activated P Isaac Mattson from the development roster. Yoyner Fajardo has now reached base in 20 consecutive games. Wille Joe Garry Jr. saw his eight-game hit streak come to an end.BROADCAST: Milb First Pitch App,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,dexWbEMmO2SNZFacaCKfVJIV48UFXNwoAwE4zyM2KXaD_HSgx84zoOHAglON-gUjtBR3aBrV7b7fNPJsxVGXCgYR5cYPta1xJgIbXkHri2NTnYdJ6WV7jsuz044,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Windsurge.com</a>, MiLB.tv and Bally Live app.UPCOMING: The Wind Surge continue their final road series of the season down south in Corpus Christi. Game two of the six game series against the Hooks will be played Wednesday, September 6th and first pitch will be at 6:35 PM. RH Carlos Luna will take the mound for Wichita and Blair Henley will be the starting pitcher for Corpus Christi.NEXT HOME GAME: The Wind Surge head back home to Riverfront Stadium on Tuesday, September 12th to play game one of their final home series this season. They will take on the Midland RockHounds and first pitch will be at 7:05 PM.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge come up short in road series opener

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gregory Santos balked with the bases-loaded as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Chicago White Sox 7-6 Tuesday night. The Royals overcame a 6-0 deficit to claim their first series win since July 28-Aug. 3. The Royals entered the ninth trailing 6-5. Nick Loftin reached on an error and went to second on a single by Michael Massey. Maikel Garcia hit into a fielder’s choice before Bobby Witt Jr. singled in the tying run. With two outs, Santos intentionally walked MJ Melendez to load the bases, bringing up Edward Olivares. Jackson Kowar (1-0) earned the win. Santos (2-2) took the loss.

It was the Royals first series win since Aug. 1-3 against the Mets, ironically a series that included the first balk-off win in franchise history. They entered the ninth trailing 6-5. Nick Loftin reached on an error and went to second on a single by Michael Massey. Maikel Garcia hit into a fielder's choice before Bobby Witt Jr. singled in the tying run. With two outs, Santos intentionally walked MJ Melendez to load the bases, bringing up Edward Olivares.

Santos was called for a balk on his first pitch to Olivares.

“I don't know what he was trying to do,” Olivares said. “Maybe he was trying to speed me up.”

The Royals had never won on a game-ending balk prior to this season, and now they've done it twice. The first was against the Mets on Aug. 1.

“Prior to this year I can only remember it happening two other times total (in MLB history),” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “It was definitely not in the same season.”

Jackson Kowar (1-0) earned the win, the first of his three-year career.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690951079311.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' overcome 6-0&nbsp; deficit&nbsp; to win on a balk" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' overcome 6-0&nbsp; deficit&nbsp; to win on a balk</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gregory Santos balked with the bases-loaded as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Chicago White Sox 7-6 Tuesday night. The Royals overcame a 6-0 deficit to claim their first series win since July 28-Aug. 3. The Royals entered the ninth trailing 6-5. Nick Loftin reached on an error and went to second on a single by Michael Massey. Maikel Garcia hit into a fielder’s choice before Bobby Witt Jr. singled in the tying run. With two outs, Santos intentionally walked MJ Melendez to load the bases, bringing up Edward Olivares. Jackson Kowar (1-0) earned the win. Santos (2-2) took the loss.It was the Royals first series win since Aug. 1-3 against the Mets, ironically a series that included the first balk-off win in franchise history. They entered the ninth trailing 6-5. Nick Loftin reached on an error and went to second on a single by Michael Massey. Maikel Garcia hit into a fielder's choice before Bobby Witt Jr. singled in the tying run. With two outs, Santos intentionally walked MJ Melendez to load the bases, bringing up Edward Olivares.Santos was called for a balk on his first pitch to Olivares.“I don't know what he was trying to do,” Olivares said. “Maybe he was trying to speed me up.”The Royals had never won on a game-ending balk prior to this season, and now they've done it twice. The first was against the Mets on Aug. 1.“Prior to this year I can only remember it happening two other times total (in MLB history),” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “It was definitely not in the same season.”Jackson Kowar (1-0) earned the win, the first of his three-year career.“You usually don't think you're going to back-door one like that,” he said. “As soon as Salvy (Salvador Perez) lined out (for the second out), I thought that was just bad luck. But it kind of flipped back for us.""I just wanted to get the sticks back up there. (Angel Zerpa, who pitched three scoreless innings of relief) did a really nice job of bridging the gap. That's a really good lineup. We were running into balls all night. I knew if I held them right there we'd have a chance.”Santos (2-2) took the loss.“They kept battling and creeping up,” disappointed Chicago manager Pedro Grifol said. “We had a couple of opportunities to tack on runs, but we didn't, and you saw the ending.”Neither starter factored in the decision. Chicago starter Dylan Cease allowed five runs on eight hits in 5 1/3 innings. Brady Singer, in his first action since becoming a father for the first time on Sept. 1, allowed six runs on nine hits in five innings.A night after not scoring until the eighth inning Monday, the White Sox scored five runs in the second inning. Andrew Vaughn beat out an infield hit leading off and Yoan Moncada followed with a 430-foot home run to right center. After Elvis Andrus and Oscar Colas hit one-out singles, Korey Lee hit his first career home run in the second. He came into the game with one hit in his first 25 MLB at-bats, and he broke an 0-for-23 slump.Vaughn led off the third with a 437-foot home run to center, stretching the lead to 6-0.The Royals were able to cash in a leadoff triple in the third. Garcia lined one to the wall in right center. He scored on a two-out single by Melendez. The Royals added a pair of runs in the fourth, the first one on a home run by Nelson Velazquez. It was Velazquez' 11th home run of the season, but his eighth in 22 games with the Royals and second in as many games. Massey also hit 11th home run with two outs. It traveled 441 feet, the longest blast of Massey's career.“I knew I hit it well,” Massey said. “I still haven't figured out how to not sprint out of the box on a homer.”Melendez hit his 14th homer of the year in the fifth to cut the deficit to 6-4. Massey then drew the Royals within one run with an RBI groundout in the sixth.TRAINING ROOM:Royals: OF Kyle Isbel, who was held out of Monday's game with hamstring tightness was available, according to KC manager Matt Quatraro, though he was not in the starting lineup.UP NEXT:The White Sox and Royals will play the final game of the three-game series Wednesday night. Chicago RHP Touki Toussaint (2-7, 4.87 ERA) will face RHP Jordan Lyles (4-15, 6.29 ERA) for KC.