LAWRENCE, Kan. – For the first time since the 2008 season, the Kansas Jayhawks will play postseason football when they travel to Memphis, Tennessee to take on the Arkansas Razorbacks in the 64th AutoZone Liberty Bowl on December 28.

Kickoff is slated for 4:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN with Dave O’Brien (Play-by-Play), Dan Mullen (Analyst) and Taylor McGregor (Sideline) on the call.

Both teams are battling for a winning season and the rights to the Bell Trophy, which is awarded to the winner of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. The meeting between Kansas and Arkansas will be the third in their series history, which dates back to 1905. Kansas has won both meetings between the two teams, with the first coming in 1905 (6-0) and last meeting in 1906 (37-5).

Kansas enters its 13th bowl game in program history, where the Jayhawks hold a 6-6 record all-time. Kansas last played in a bowl game in 2008, when they defeated Minnesota in the Insight Bowl, 42-21. The Jayhawks are 5-1 in their last six bowl games, including three straight bowl wins. This will be Kansas’ second appearance in the Liberty Bowl, with its first coming on Dec. 17, 1973, in a 31-18 loss to North Carolina State.

The 2022 season has been nothing short of a breakout season for the Jayhawks, who have earned six wins for the first time since 2008. Kansas ranks 28th in the country in scoring offense at 34.2 points per game, which are the most since the 2007 season. Over the last 10 seasons, Kansas’ highest scoring average was 23.5 in 2019.

Kansas’ success earned nine Jayhawks a spot on the All-Big 12 teams, led by sophomore cornerback Cobee Bryant being named All-Big 12 First Team. The Jayhawks also placed three individuals on the Second Team, including quarterback Jalon Daniels, tight end Mason Fairchild and center Mike Novitsky.

Arkansas finished 3-5 in the SEC, dropping its final game of the season at Missouri, 29-27. Head coach Sam Pittman’s team is led by quarterback KJ Jefferson, who completed 185-of-271 passes this season for 2,361 yards, 22 touchdowns and just four interceptions.

Sophomore running back Raheim Sanders was also a standout on offense, rushing for 1,426 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. He averaged 6.5 yards per carry. Overall, the Arkansas offense is ranked No. 26 in the country in total offense and the defense is ranked No. 123.

Arkansas was well-represented on the All-SEC teams with six individuals named, including center Ricky Stromberg, linebacker Drew Sanders, kickoff specialist Jake Bates, running back Raheim Sanders, linebacker Bumper Pool and defensive back Dwight McGlothern.

For more information on the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, including fan information, tickets, bowl apparel and more, visit the Kansas Jayhawks Bowl Hub here.

The AutoZone Liberty Bowl Football Classic is the seventh oldest college bowl game and is one of the most tradition-rich and patriotic bowl games in America. The AutoZone Liberty Bowl was founded in Philadelphia in 1959 and the inaugural game featured a match-up between Penn State and Alabama. That game began a tradition of great stars, exciting football, and was the first of 63 thrilling chapters in the history of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl Football Classic. The AutoZone Liberty Bowl has enjoyed many highlights through the years. The Bowl has hosted all-time great coaches such as Paul “Bear” Bryant, Lou Holtz, Tom Osborne, Steve Spurrier and Bill Snyder. The Bowl’s history also includes four Heisman Trophy winners (Ernie Davis, Terry Baker, Doug Flutie and Bo Jackson) and other stars such as Archie Manning and Donovan McNabb.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671896234996.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – For the first time since the 2008 season, the Kansas Jayhawks will play postseason football when they travel to Memphis, Tennessee to take on the Arkansas Razorbacks in the 64th AutoZone Liberty Bowl on December 28.Kickoff is slated for 4:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN with Dave O’Brien (Play-by-Play), Dan Mullen (Analyst) and Taylor McGregor (Sideline) on the call.Both teams are battling for a winning season and the rights to the Bell Trophy, which is awarded to the winner of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. The meeting between Kansas and Arkansas will be the third in their series history, which dates back to 1905. Kansas has won both meetings between the two teams, with the first coming in 1905 (6-0) and last meeting in 1906 (37-5).Kansas enters its 13th bowl game in program history, where the Jayhawks hold a 6-6 record all-time. Kansas last played in a bowl game in 2008, when they defeated Minnesota in the Insight Bowl, 42-21. The Jayhawks are 5-1 in their last six bowl games, including three straight bowl wins. This will be Kansas’ second appearance in the Liberty Bowl, with its first coming on Dec. 17, 1973, in a 31-18 loss to North Carolina State.The 2022 season has been nothing short of a breakout season for the Jayhawks, who have earned six wins for the first time since 2008. Kansas ranks 28th in the country in scoring offense at 34.2 points per game, which are the most since the 2007 season. Over the last 10 seasons, Kansas’ highest scoring average was 23.5 in 2019.Kansas’ success earned nine Jayhawks a spot on the All-Big 12 teams, led by sophomore cornerback Cobee Bryant being named All-Big 12 First Team. The Jayhawks also placed three individuals on the Second Team, including quarterback Jalon Daniels, tight end Mason Fairchild and center Mike Novitsky.Arkansas finished 3-5 in the SEC, dropping its final game of the season at Missouri, 29-27. Head coach Sam Pittman’s team is led by quarterback KJ Jefferson, who completed 185-of-271 passes this season for 2,361 yards, 22 touchdowns and just four interceptions.Sophomore running back Raheim Sanders was also a standout on offense, rushing for 1,426 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. He averaged 6.5 yards per carry. Overall, the Arkansas offense is ranked No. 26 in the country in total offense and the defense is ranked No. 123.Arkansas was well-represented on the All-SEC teams with six individuals named, including center Ricky Stromberg, linebacker Drew Sanders, kickoff specialist Jake Bates, running back Raheim Sanders, linebacker Bumper Pool and defensive back Dwight McGlothern.For more information on the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, including fan information, tickets, bowl apparel and more, visit the Kansas Jayhawks Bowl Hub here.About the AutoZone Liberty BowlThe AutoZone Liberty Bowl Football Classic is the seventh oldest college bowl game and is one of the most tradition-rich and patriotic bowl games in America. The AutoZone Liberty Bowl was founded in Philadelphia in 1959 and the inaugural game featured a match-up between Penn State and Alabama. That game began a tradition of great stars, exciting football, and was the first of 63 thrilling chapters in the history of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl Football Classic. The AutoZone Liberty Bowl has enjoyed many highlights through the years. The Bowl has hosted all-time great coaches such as Paul “Bear” Bryant, Lou Holtz, Tom Osborne, Steve Spurrier and Bill Snyder. The Bowl’s history also includes four Heisman Trophy winners (Ernie Davis, Terry Baker, Doug Flutie and Bo Jackson) and other stars such as Archie Manning and Donovan McNabb.

🏈 Kansas Set to take on Arkansas in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl on Dec. 28

NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL has suspended for one game Broncos linebacker Randy Gregory and Rams offensive lineman Oday Aboushi for exchanging punches following their game on Sunday.

Gregory and Aboushi exchanged words during the postgame handshake and Gregory threw a punch at Aboushi's helmet.

Aboushi retaliated before teammates stepped in and separated them.

Gregory had received two 15-yard penalties during the Broncos' 51-14 loss to the Rams.

He threw his helmet on one play and then hit Rams QB Baker Mayfield in the head on the other.

NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL has suspended for one game Broncos linebacker Randy Gregory and Rams offensive lineman Oday Aboushi for exchanging punches following their game on Sunday.Gregory and Aboushi exchanged words during the postgame handshake and Gregory threw a punch at Aboushi's helmet.Aboushi retaliated before teammates stepped in and separated them.Gregory had received two 15-yard penalties during the Broncos' 51-14 loss to the Rams.He threw his helmet on one play and then hit Rams QB Baker Mayfield in the head on the other.

🏈 Bronco's Randy Gregory, Oday Aboushi suspended 1 game for punches

Purdue remained atop The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll for a third straight week. The week also included preseason No. 1 North Carolina returning to the rankings at No. 25 and New Mexico cracking the poll for the first time in eight years. The Boilermakers earned 40 of 60 first-place votes in Monday’s new poll, while fellow unbeaten Connecticut earned the other 20 to sit at No. 2 in an unchanged top. Houston, Kansas and Arizona rounded out the top five. Miami made the week's biggest jump by climbing eight spots to No. 14.

Others receiving votes: Coll of Charleston 102, Maryland 87, Memphis 74, Illinois 65, Ohio St. 59, Missouri 57, Virginia Tech 57, San Diego St. 39,&nbsp;Iowa St. 19, Marquette 12,&nbsp;Texas Tech 10, Michigan St. 7, Providence 6,&nbsp;Kansas St 5, Southern Cal 4, San Francisco 1.

Purdue remained atop The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll for a third straight week. The week also included preseason No. 1 North Carolina returning to the rankings at No. 25 and New Mexico cracking the poll for the first time in eight years. The Boilermakers earned 40 of 60 first-place votes in Monday’s new poll, while fellow unbeaten Connecticut earned the other 20 to sit at No. 2 in an unchanged top. Houston, Kansas and Arizona rounded out the top five. Miami made the week's biggest jump by climbing eight spots to No. 14.Record Pts Prv1. Purdue (40) 12-0 1478 12. UConn (20) 13-0 1459 23. Houston 12-1 1351 34. Kansas 11-1 1299 45. Arizona 12-1 1274 56. Texas 10-1 1144 77. Tennessee 10-2 1068 88. Alabama 10-2 1067 99. Arkansas 11-1 1017 1010. Gonzaga 10-3 940 1111. UCLA 11-2 906 1312. Baylor 9-2 888 1213. Virginia 8-2 861 614. Miami 12-1 658 2215. Wisconsin 9-2 570 1716. Indiana 10-3 513 1817. Duke 10-3 500 1418. TCU 10-1 480 2019. Kentucky 8-3 439 1920. Auburn 10-2 237 2321. Mississippi St. 11-1 215 1522. New Mexico 12-0 147 -22. Xavier 10-3 147 -24. West Virginia 10-2 126 -25. North Carolina 9-4 112 -Others receiving votes: Coll of Charleston 102, Maryland 87, Memphis 74, Illinois 65, Ohio St. 59, Missouri 57, Virginia Tech 57, San Diego St. 39,&nbsp;Iowa St. 19, Marquette 12,&nbsp;Texas Tech 10, Michigan St. 7, Providence 6,&nbsp;Kansas St 5, Southern Cal 4, San Francisco 1.

🏀 Kansas remains at No. 4 in AP Men's Poll

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos have fired coach Nathaniel Hackett after 15 games. Hackett never was able to get quarterback Russell Wilson out of a season-long slump. The Broncos are 4-11 and have posted their sixth straight losing season and are missing the playoffs for a seventh consecutive season. Hackett replaced Vic Fangio last January but the Broncos got worse in almost every category under the first-time head coach.

Denver parted ways with the 43-year-old two games before the end of his first season with the team. He had led the Broncos to just a 4-11 record despite the team being seen as a potential contender entering 2022.

An interim head coach has not yet been announced.

Broncos owner and CEO Greg Penner released a statement after the firing.

"I will lead our head coaching search with support from out ownership group and George (Paton), whom I have confidence in as our general manager," Penner wrote. "As we begin the process of selecting our next head coach, we remain focused on playing competitive football to finish the season on a positive note."

Under Hackett, the Broncos offense averaged the fewest points per game (15.5) this season and were already eliminated from postseason contention by Week 15.

The poor play began in Week 1 when Wilson made his return to Seattle. The Seahawks won 17-16 in a win that was seen then as an upset. But after how both teams have played since then, Seattle's close win seems to be expected in hindsight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672086387376.jpeg" alt="Denver Fires nathanial Hackett" />
 <figcaption>Denver Fires nathanial Hackett</figcaption>
 </figure>ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos have fired coach Nathaniel Hackett after 15 games. Hackett never was able to get quarterback Russell Wilson out of a season-long slump. The Broncos are 4-11 and have posted their sixth straight losing season and are missing the playoffs for a seventh consecutive season. Hackett replaced Vic Fangio last January but the Broncos got worse in almost every category under the first-time head coach.Denver parted ways with the 43-year-old two games before the end of his first season with the team. He had led the Broncos to just a 4-11 record despite the team being seen as a potential contender entering 2022.An interim head coach has not yet been announced.Broncos owner and CEO Greg Penner released a statement after the firing."I will lead our head coaching search with support from out ownership group and George (Paton), whom I have confidence in as our general manager," Penner wrote. "As we begin the process of selecting our next head coach, we remain focused on playing competitive football to finish the season on a positive note."Under Hackett, the Broncos offense averaged the fewest points per game (15.5) this season and were already eliminated from postseason contention by Week 15.The poor play began in Week 1 when Wilson made his return to Seattle. The Seahawks won 17-16 in a win that was seen then as an upset. But after how both teams have played since then, Seattle's close win seems to be expected in hindsight.

🏈 Denver Broncos fire rookie head coach Hackett

&nbsp; HUTCHINSON, Kan.:&nbsp;(Transcript from KWBW Sports)&nbsp;7:10 am on BW Radio, time to turn to sports,&nbsp; &nbsp;

Some NFL yesterday, there were three games on tap and some pretty competitive, but least two of the three were. Green Bay won over Miami 26 to 20. The L.A. Rams blowout Denver an embarrassment for the Broncos, one of the worst showings in their recent history, 51 to 14 as the Rams never looked back and a game that went over time last night, Sunday Night Football, Tampa won over Arizona, 19 to 16. 

Monday Night Football tonight, the L.A. Chargers at Indianapolis, that will be at 7:15 pm on ESPN. 

We'll have the Chiefs Kingdome show on BW Radio Sports tonight from 7 to 8. As Kansas City won over Seattle on Saturday by a score of 24 to 10.

The winningest program  in college basketball history, KU celebrating its 125th year of a play during the 2022-2023 season. And they'll host a 125th reunion coming up on Saturday, January 14th, when the Hawks play host to Iowa State at Allen Field House. 

The game will feature on court recognition honoring past Jayhawks in attendance. Additionally, the first 5000 fans in attendance will receive a commemorative pennant celebrating 125 years of Kansas basketball. The Iowa State contest on that date will start at 3:00 and be televised on ESPN+, KU off until Saturday when they'll play host to Oklahoma State at 1:00. 

Well, golf has lost one of their legends. We get more from CBS. Kathy Whitworth, "A legendary Hall of Fame pro women's golfer, has died at the age of 83. Over her career, Whitworth scored 88 victories. That's the most by any player, male or female, on a single professional tour." Pretty  incredible stuff.  

That's BW Radio Sports for Monday Morning. 

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

<div><iframe title="Eagle Media Sports for Monday, December 26th, 2022" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=b7mvj-13487bb-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>&nbsp; HUTCHINSON, Kan.:&nbsp;(Transcript from KWBW Sports)&nbsp;7:10 am on BW Radio, time to turn to sports,&nbsp; &nbsp;Some NFL yesterday, there were three games on tap and some pretty competitive, but least two of the three were. Green Bay won over Miami 26 to 20. The L.A. Rams blowout Denver an embarrassment for the Broncos, one of the worst showings in their recent history, 51 to 14 as the Rams never looked back and a game that went over time last night, Sunday Night Football, Tampa won over Arizona, 19 to 16. Monday Night Football tonight, the L.A. Chargers at Indianapolis, that will be at 7:15 pm on ESPN. We'll have the Chiefs Kingdome show on BW Radio Sports tonight from 7 to 8. As Kansas City won over Seattle on Saturday by a score of 24 to 10.The winningest program in college basketball history, KU celebrating its 125th year of a play during the 2022-2023 season. And they'll host a 125th reunion coming up on Saturday, January 14th, when the Hawks play host to Iowa State at Allen Field House. The game will feature on court recognition honoring past Jayhawks in attendance. Additionally, the first 5000 fans in attendance will receive a commemorative pennant celebrating 125 years of Kansas basketball. The Iowa State contest on that date will start at 3:00 and be televised on ESPN+, KU off until Saturday when they'll play host to Oklahoma State at 1:00. Well, golf has lost one of their legends. We get more from CBS. Kathy Whitworth, "A legendary Hall of Fame pro women's golfer, has died at the age of 83. Over her career, Whitworth scored 88 victories. That's the most by any player, male or female, on a single professional tour." Pretty incredible stuff. That's BW Radio Sports for Monday Morning. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 📰 Eagle Media Sports for Monday Morning

AP Sports Summary for Monday, December 26th, 2022

Tom Brady, Buccaneers rally to beat Cardinals 19-16 in OT

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers maintained control of the NFC South, overcoming a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter and beating the Arizona Cardinals 19-16 in overtime Sunday night. Ryan Succop hit a 40-yard field goal with 3:41 left in overtime, capping a nine-play, 66-yard drive. The Cardinals got the ball to start overtime but eventually had to punt. Arizona (4-11) has lost five straight games, while Tampa Bay snapped a two-game skid. The Bucs (7-8) stayed a game ahead of the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints in the medicore NFC South. Tampa Bay has a crucial home game against Carolina next weekend.

Tagovailoa throws 3 picks, Packers defeat Dolphins 26-20

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Aaron Rodgers threw for 238 yards and a touchdown, Green Bay's defense had four takeaways and the Packers came from behind to defeat the Miami Dolphins 26-20 and keep their playoff hopes alive. The Packers (7-8) have won their past three games after starting the season 4-8. Miami (8-7) lost its fourth straight game and must win its final two regular to make the postseason. Tua Tagovailoa was intercepted three times in the fourth quarter to end Miami's comeback bid with the Dolphins trailing by six points.

Mayfield, Akers lead Rams' 51-14 blowout of Wilson's Broncos

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams routed the Denver Broncos 51-14 for their second victory since mid-October. Baker Mayfield threw two touchdown passes to Tyler Higbee and Cam Akers rushed for 118 yards and three more scores. Larrell Murchison made 2 1/2 of the Rams' six sacks of Russell Wilson. Wilson passed for 214 yards with three interceptions for Denver in his return from a one-game absence with a concussion. It was the Rams' first 50-point performance under Sean McVay since a 54-51 victory over Kansas City in 2018.

Jokic, Nuggets outlast Suns 128-125 in OT; Booker sidelined

DENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic had another monster triple-double, Aaron Gordon threw down a pivotal dunk that stood up after a review in overtime and the Denver Nuggets rallied for a 128-125 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night. Jokic had 41 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists for his 83rd career triple-double. The two-time reigning NBA MVP had a 40-point, 27-rebound, 10-assist outing a week ago. Phoenix star Devin Booker lasted only 4:20 in his return from a groin injury, scoring two points after getting 58 against New Orleans in his previous start. Jamal Murray tied it in regulation for Denver on a dunk with 10.7 seconds left.

Doncic, Mavs top Lakers 124-115 to celebrate Nowitzki statue

DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic scored 32 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. had 16 of his 26 points in a huge third quarter for Dallas and the Mavericks beat the Los Angeles Lakers 124-115. Christian Wood added 30 points and tied a career high with seven assists. The Mavericks finished off a celebration of Dirk Nowitzki's statue unveiling by winning just the second Christmas Day home game in franchise history. Dallas took its first lead during a 51-point third quarter, the highest-scoring quarter on Christmas in NBA history. LeBron James scored 38 points and the Lakers led by 12 early in the third before the Mavericks took over.

With Curry out, Poole scores 32 and Warriors beat Grizzlies

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jordan Poole scored 32 points — highlighted by emphatic one-handed slam off a pass from Draymond Green in the third — to outduel Ja Morant before being ejected, and the Warriors beat the Memphis Grizzlies 123-109 on Sunday night in a rematch of the Western Conference semifinals won by Golden State. Morant scored 36 points while debuting his first Nike signature "Ja 1" shoe for the Grizzlies' first Christmas Day game ever. Klay Thompson added 24 points and nine rebounds and Donte DiVincenzo had 19 points as the Warriors played their 10th straight Christmas game.

Tatum has 41, Celtics push back on Giannis, Bucks 139-118

BOSTON (AP) — Jayson Tatum scored 20 of his 41 points in the third quarter to help the Celtics beat the Bucks 139-118 in a matchup of the top two teams in the NBA. Jaylen Brown scored 13 of his 29 in the fourth. Giannis Antetokounmpo lost his temper after a hard pick sent him to the floor and retaliated by shoving the Celtics All-Star. Antetokounmpo was given a technical foul and went to the bench. The teams played the last 3:41 without further incident. Antetokounmpo added 27 points and nine rebounds for Milwaukee, and Jrue Holiday scored 23 points.

A cue for success? Zimbabwe's pool players are betting on it

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Once a minority sport played mostly in Zimbabwe's wealthier neighborhoods, pool has increased in popularity over the years, first as a pastime and now as a survival mode for many in a country where employment is hard to come by. Pool tables have been springing up in bars and homes over recent years across the country as the game's popularity increases. Pool has become an income earner for players and gamblers who bet on games. Others warn that betting is a dangerous habit that can have disastrous impacts on families. But with Zimbabwe's economic outlook so dire, many people are desperately scrambling to make money through a cue stick.

Kathy Whitworth, winningest golfer in history, dies at 83

Hall of Fame golfer Kathy Whitworth has died at the age of 83. Whitworth holds the record with 88 wins on the LPGA Tour. That's one of the most famous records in golf because no one else has ever won more on any tour. Sam Snead and Tiger Woods have 82 wins on the PGA Tour. Whitworth died on Christmas Eve. Her longtime partner says she was celebrating with family and friends. Whitworth won the LPGA money title eight times and was player of the year seven times. But she will also be defined by one number — 88.

Chargers face Colts on rebound after historically poor games

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indianapolis Colts revealed the unvarnished truth in their own words this week. After back-to-back historically poor performances, they described it as embarrassing. On Monday night, nine days since allowing the largest comeback in NFL history, the Colts hope to deliver a memorable rebound performance on national television. The Los Angeles Chargers understand. They started Week 16 with the No. 6 seed in the AFC playoff chase. And it's come nearly 12 months after an overtime loss in last season's final regular-season game kept them out of the postseason.

AP Sports Summary for Monday, December 26th, 2022Tom Brady, Buccaneers rally to beat Cardinals 19-16 in OTGLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers maintained control of the NFC South, overcoming a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter and beating the Arizona Cardinals 19-16 in overtime Sunday night. Ryan Succop hit a 40-yard field goal with 3:41 left in overtime, capping a nine-play, 66-yard drive. The Cardinals got the ball to start overtime but eventually had to punt. Arizona (4-11) has lost five straight games, while Tampa Bay snapped a two-game skid. The Bucs (7-8) stayed a game ahead of the Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints in the medicore NFC South. Tampa Bay has a crucial home game against Carolina next weekend.Tagovailoa throws 3 picks, Packers defeat Dolphins 26-20MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Aaron Rodgers threw for 238 yards and a touchdown, Green Bay's defense had four takeaways and the Packers came from behind to defeat the Miami Dolphins 26-20 and keep their playoff hopes alive. The Packers (7-8) have won their past three games after starting the season 4-8. Miami (8-7) lost its fourth straight game and must win its final two regular to make the postseason. Tua Tagovailoa was intercepted three times in the fourth quarter to end Miami's comeback bid with the Dolphins trailing by six points.Mayfield, Akers lead Rams' 51-14 blowout of Wilson's BroncosINGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams routed the Denver Broncos 51-14 for their second victory since mid-October. Baker Mayfield threw two touchdown passes to Tyler Higbee and Cam Akers rushed for 118 yards and three more scores. Larrell Murchison made 2 1/2 of the Rams' six sacks of Russell Wilson. Wilson passed for 214 yards with three interceptions for Denver in his return from a one-game absence with a concussion. It was the Rams' first 50-point performance under Sean McVay since a 54-51 victory over Kansas City in 2018.Jokic, Nuggets outlast Suns 128-125 in OT; Booker sidelinedDENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic had another monster triple-double, Aaron Gordon threw down a pivotal dunk that stood up after a review in overtime and the Denver Nuggets rallied for a 128-125 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night. Jokic had 41 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists for his 83rd career triple-double. The two-time reigning NBA MVP had a 40-point, 27-rebound, 10-assist outing a week ago. Phoenix star Devin Booker lasted only 4:20 in his return from a groin injury, scoring two points after getting 58 against New Orleans in his previous start. Jamal Murray tied it in regulation for Denver on a dunk with 10.7 seconds left.Doncic, Mavs top Lakers 124-115 to celebrate Nowitzki statueDALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic scored 32 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. had 16 of his 26 points in a huge third quarter for Dallas and the Mavericks beat the Los Angeles Lakers 124-115. Christian Wood added 30 points and tied a career high with seven assists. The Mavericks finished off a celebration of Dirk Nowitzki's statue unveiling by winning just the second Christmas Day home game in franchise history. Dallas took its first lead during a 51-point third quarter, the highest-scoring quarter on Christmas in NBA history. LeBron James scored 38 points and the Lakers led by 12 early in the third before the Mavericks took over.With Curry out, Poole scores 32 and Warriors beat GrizzliesSAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jordan Poole scored 32 points — highlighted by emphatic one-handed slam off a pass from Draymond Green in the third — to outduel Ja Morant before being ejected, and the Warriors beat the Memphis Grizzlies 123-109 on Sunday night in a rematch of the Western Conference semifinals won by Golden State. Morant scored 36 points while debuting his first Nike signature "Ja 1" shoe for the Grizzlies' first Christmas Day game ever. Klay Thompson added 24 points and nine rebounds and Donte DiVincenzo had 19 points as the Warriors played their 10th straight Christmas game.Tatum has 41, Celtics push back on Giannis, Bucks 139-118BOSTON (AP) — Jayson Tatum scored 20 of his 41 points in the third quarter to help the Celtics beat the Bucks 139-118 in a matchup of the top two teams in the NBA. Jaylen Brown scored 13 of his 29 in the fourth. Giannis Antetokounmpo lost his temper after a hard pick sent him to the floor and retaliated by shoving the Celtics All-Star. Antetokounmpo was given a technical foul and went to the bench. The teams played the last 3:41 without further incident. Antetokounmpo added 27 points and nine rebounds for Milwaukee, and Jrue Holiday scored 23 points.A cue for success? Zimbabwe's pool players are betting on itHARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Once a minority sport played mostly in Zimbabwe's wealthier neighborhoods, pool has increased in popularity over the years, first as a pastime and now as a survival mode for many in a country where employment is hard to come by. Pool tables have been springing up in bars and homes over recent years across the country as the game's popularity increases. Pool has become an income earner for players and gamblers who bet on games. Others warn that betting is a dangerous habit that can have disastrous impacts on families. But with Zimbabwe's economic outlook so dire, many people are desperately scrambling to make money through a cue stick.Kathy Whitworth, winningest golfer in history, dies at 83Hall of Fame golfer Kathy Whitworth has died at the age of 83. Whitworth holds the record with 88 wins on the LPGA Tour. That's one of the most famous records in golf because no one else has ever won more on any tour. Sam Snead and Tiger Woods have 82 wins on the PGA Tour. Whitworth died on Christmas Eve. Her longtime partner says she was celebrating with family and friends. Whitworth won the LPGA money title eight times and was player of the year seven times. But she will also be defined by one number — 88.Chargers face Colts on rebound after historically poor gamesINDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indianapolis Colts revealed the unvarnished truth in their own words this week. After back-to-back historically poor performances, they described it as embarrassing. On Monday night, nine days since allowing the largest comeback in NFL history, the Colts hope to deliver a memorable rebound performance on national television. The Los Angeles Chargers understand. They started Week 16 with the No. 6 seed in the AFC playoff chase. And it's come nearly 12 months after an overtime loss in last season's final regular-season game kept them out of the postseason.<h2>Sunday's NBA Games&nbsp;</h2>Philadelphia 119, New York 112Dallas 124, L.A. Lakers 115Boston 139, Milwaukee 118Golden State 123, Memphis 109Denver 128, Phoenix 125, OTMonday's Games Brooklyn at Cleveland, 7 p.m.L.A. Clippers at Detroit, 7 p.m.Minnesota at Miami, 7:30 p.m.Houston at Chicago, 8 p.m.Indiana at New Orleans, 8 p.m.Utah at San Antonio, 8 p.m.Charlotte at Portland, 10 p.m.Tuesday's Games L.A. Lakers at Orlando, 7 p.m.Philadelphia at Washington, 7 p.m.Atlanta at Indiana, 7:30 p.m.Houston at Boston, 7:30 p.m.L.A. Clippers at Toronto, 7:30 p.m.Phoenix at Memphis, 8 p.m.San Antonio at Oklahoma City, 8 p.m.New York at Dallas, 8:30 p.m.Charlotte at Golden State, 10 p.m.Denver at Sacramento, 10 p.m.Wednesday's Games Orlando at Detroit, 7 p.m.Phoenix at Washington, 7 p.m.Brooklyn at Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.L.A. Lakers at Miami, 7:30 p.m.Milwaukee at Chicago, 8 p.m.Minnesota at New Orleans, 8 p.m.Denver at Sacramento, 10 p.m.Utah at Golden State, 10 p.m.

Sports Headlines for Monday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score and Kansas City shut down Geno Smith and the slumping Seattle offense as the Chiefs rolled to a 24-10 victory over the Seahawks. Travis Kelce had six catches for 113 yards,and Kadarius Toney and Jerick McKinnon had touchdown catches for the AFC West champions. They remained tied with Buffalo at 12-3 for the conference's best record. The Seahawks were stopped twice on fourth down and Geno Smith threw a pick in the end zone as they lost for the fifth time in six games.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score, Kansas City shut down Geno Smith and Seattle's slumping offense and the Chiefs rolled to a 24-10 victory over the Seahawks on Saturday.

Travis Kelce had six catches for 113 yards, and Kadarius Toney and Jerick McKinnon had touchdown catches as the AFC West champion Chiefs (12-3) remained tied with Buffalo for the conference's best record with two games to go.

The Chiefs stopped the Seahawks (7-8) twice on fourth down, picked off their Pro Bowl quarterback in the end zone and dealt coach Pete Carroll's team their fifth loss in six games along with a near-knockout blow to their playoff hopes.

Kenneth Walker III was the biggest bright spot for Seattle, running for 107 yards but failing to reach the end zone.

Kansas City has won 16 consecutive regular-season games against NFC opponents.

Much like the rest of the country, the cold weather that flooded the Midwest produced some frigid temperatures — the wind chill was minus-2 at kickoff, and that was an improvement over the previous two days. In fact, it had been so cold the tarp was frozen to the field when workers tried to remove it three hours before kickoff.

That didn't bother a half-dozen Seahawks, including DK Metcalf and his fellow wide receivers, who walked out of the tunnel bare-chested shortly afterward for their pregame warmups on the ice-covered field.

Maybe they weren't cold, but Seattle's offense was downright frigid.

Playing without wide receiver Tyler Lockett, who had surgery on his broken hand this week, Smith and Co. gained just 18 yards on their first 15 plays, and they were forced to punt on their first five possessions.

The Chiefs took advantage of the slow start, too. Mahomes threw a pop pass to Toney to cap a 63-yard TD drive, then a pass to McKinnon out of the backfield a few minutes later for another score. And by the time Harrison Butker drilled a 47-yard field goal late in the half, the Chiefs had jumped out to a 17-0 lead.

Even when Seattle got a field goal before halftime, much of the drive was aided by defensive penalties.

While the Chiefs struggled to extend their lead in the second half, the Seahawks were incapable of trimming it.

They failed on fourth down at the Kansas City 34 when tight end Colby Parkinson was stood up after a catch; failed on fourth down again when Laquon Treadwell failed to run his route to the first-down marker and came up short; and failed to score at the Kansas City 22 when Smith overthrew Treadwell and was picked off by Juan Thornhill in the end zone.

The Chiefs, who have been maligned for failing to put struggling teams away, finally did it on the ensuing possession, when Mahomes hit Kelce with two long throws before sprinting to the pylon for the clinching touchdown.

The Seahawks still have not won at Arrowhead Stadium since Nov. 21, 1999. ... The Seahawks were one of three teams Mahomes had yet to beat along with Indianapolis and Minnesota. ... Mahomes extended his consecutive completions streak to 21 at the start of the game before missing his next throw. ... McKinnon has six TDs in his past four games.

Seahawks: NT Al Woods (Achilles) and SS Ryan Neal (knee) were inactive. ... FS Joey Blount (knee) and RB Travis Homer (ankle) left in the first quarter, and RT Abraham Lucas (thigh) in the third. ... WR Marquise Goodwin also left with a wrist injury, though he was able to return to the game.

Seahawks: host the New York Jets next Sunday.

Chiefs: host the Denver Broncos next Sunday.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score and Kansas City shut down Geno Smith and the slumping Seattle offense as the Chiefs rolled to a 24-10 victory over the Seahawks. Travis Kelce had six catches for 113 yards,and Kadarius Toney and Jerick McKinnon had touchdown catches for the AFC West champions. They remained tied with Buffalo at 12-3 for the conference's best record. The Seahawks were stopped twice on fourth down and Geno Smith threw a pick in the end zone as they lost for the fifth time in six games.KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score, Kansas City shut down Geno Smith and Seattle's slumping offense and the Chiefs rolled to a 24-10 victory over the Seahawks on Saturday.Travis Kelce had six catches for 113 yards, and Kadarius Toney and Jerick McKinnon had touchdown catches as the AFC West champion Chiefs (12-3) remained tied with Buffalo for the conference's best record with two games to go.The Chiefs stopped the Seahawks (7-8) twice on fourth down, picked off their Pro Bowl quarterback in the end zone and dealt coach Pete Carroll's team their fifth loss in six games along with a near-knockout blow to their playoff hopes.Kenneth Walker III was the biggest bright spot for Seattle, running for 107 yards but failing to reach the end zone.Kansas City has won 16 consecutive regular-season games against NFC opponents.Much like the rest of the country, the cold weather that flooded the Midwest produced some frigid temperatures — the wind chill was minus-2 at kickoff, and that was an improvement over the previous two days. In fact, it had been so cold the tarp was frozen to the field when workers tried to remove it three hours before kickoff.That didn't bother a half-dozen Seahawks, including DK Metcalf and his fellow wide receivers, who walked out of the tunnel bare-chested shortly afterward for their pregame warmups on the ice-covered field.Maybe they weren't cold, but Seattle's offense was downright frigid.Playing without wide receiver Tyler Lockett, who had surgery on his broken hand this week, Smith and Co. gained just 18 yards on their first 15 plays, and they were forced to punt on their first five possessions.The Chiefs took advantage of the slow start, too. Mahomes threw a pop pass to Toney to cap a 63-yard TD drive, then a pass to McKinnon out of the backfield a few minutes later for another score. And by the time Harrison Butker drilled a 47-yard field goal late in the half, the Chiefs had jumped out to a 17-0 lead.Even when Seattle got a field goal before halftime, much of the drive was aided by defensive penalties.While the Chiefs struggled to extend their lead in the second half, the Seahawks were incapable of trimming it.They failed on fourth down at the Kansas City 34 when tight end Colby Parkinson was stood up after a catch; failed on fourth down again when Laquon Treadwell failed to run his route to the first-down marker and came up short; and failed to score at the Kansas City 22 when Smith overthrew Treadwell and was picked off by Juan Thornhill in the end zone.The Chiefs, who have been maligned for failing to put struggling teams away, finally did it on the ensuing possession, when Mahomes hit Kelce with two long throws before sprinting to the pylon for the clinching touchdown.STATS AND STREAKSThe Seahawks still have not won at Arrowhead Stadium since Nov. 21, 1999. ... The Seahawks were one of three teams Mahomes had yet to beat along with Indianapolis and Minnesota. ... Mahomes extended his consecutive completions streak to 21 at the start of the game before missing his next throw. ... McKinnon has six TDs in his past four games.INJURY REPORTSeahawks: NT Al Woods (Achilles) and SS Ryan Neal (knee) were inactive. ... FS Joey Blount (knee) and RB Travis Homer (ankle) left in the first quarter, and RT Abraham Lucas (thigh) in the third. ... WR Marquise Goodwin also left with a wrist injury, though he was able to return to the game.UP NEXTSeahawks: host the New York Jets next Sunday.Chiefs: host the Denver Broncos next Sunday.

🏈 Chiefs dump Seahawks 24-10, stay tied for AFC's best record

🎥🏈 Chiefs Insider vs Seattle Seahawks

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Sam Hartman completed 23 of 36 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns in what was expected to be his final game with Wake Forest, a 27-17 win over Missouri in the Gasparilla Bowl. The redshirt junior now will look at entering the NFL draft or transfer portal. Hartman threw his 108th career touchdown pass to set an Atlantic Coast Conference record on a 5-yard strike to Taylor Morin that made it 7-0 with 9:43 left in the first quarter. He had been tied with Clemson’s Tajh Boyd and ended up with 110 TD passes overall.

SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) — Clayton Tune connected with Nathaniel Dell for a 12-yard touchdown with 20 seconds remaining, and Houston rallied from a 13-point deficit to beat Louisiana-Lafayette 23-16 in the Independence Bowl on Friday. The TD pass was Tune’s third of the game and 40th of the season, tying the senior with Western Kentucky’s Austin Reed for the most in the nation. Before the winning throw, he completed a 41-yard pass to KeSean Carter on first-and-30 to move Houston into Ragin’ Cajuns territory.

AMHERST, N.Y. (AP) — Damian Jackson followed two tours of duty with the Navy SEALs by turning to football. He sees it as a potential career even though he never played the sport growing up. The 30-year-old University at Buffalo defensive end is set to play the final game of his college career on Tuesday, when the Bulls face Georgia Southern in the Camellia Bowl. Jackson is looking ahead to attracting NFL attention as a special teams player. He's already earned the respect from Buffalo teammates and coaches for his humility and how Jackson has led by example.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The woman who called police to report a family violence assault by Texas basketball coach Chris Beard said Friday that Beard did not strangle her and she never wanted him arrested or prosecuted. Beard was suspended indefinitely without pay after his Dec. 12 arrest on a felony charge of strangling his fiancée, Randi Trew. In a statement sent to The Associated Press by her attorney, Trew said she is “deeply saddened” by the incident and said Beard was acting in self-defense from her. The university said in a statement that officials are reviewing Trew's statement.

UNDATED (AP) — New York Jets wide receivers coach Miles Austin has been suspended by the NFL for violating the league’s gambling policy. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed the suspension, which Austin is appealing. McCarthy added the league would have no further comment until the appeal is resolved. Austin could be forced to sit out for a minimum of a year, pending the results of the appeal. The former NFL wide receiver did not coach in the Jets’ 19-3 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday night. Austin’s attorney and agent William P. Deni Jr. said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press that Austin did not gamble on football.

UNDATED (AP) — Zach Wilson’s reset needed more time. The New York Jets benched the second-year quarterback for three games so he could work on his mechanics, fundamentals and mental approach. But Wilson was forced back into action in the middle of a playoff push because of Mike White’s rib injury and the flaws in his game are still very much present. And perhaps worse than ever. Being replaced by fourth-stringer Chris Streveler in a 19-3 loss to Jacksonville on Thursday night to give the offense a spark was further evidence Wilson just isn’t the guy the Jets hoped for when they drafted him No. 2 overall last year.

DALLAS (AP) — A judge has ordered Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to take a paternity test as part of a legal dispute with a 26-year-old woman who claims the billionaire is her biological father. A Texas judge issued the order for genetic testing Thursday in a paternity case brought by Alexandra Davis. She previously alleged in a separate lawsuit she was conceived from a relationship Jones had with her mother in the mid-1990s. Attorneys for Jones did not immediately respond to requests for comment Friday, but said in court filings that they intend to appeal the decision.

Wake Forest 27, Missouri 17 -Gasparilla Bowl

Houston 23, Louisiana-Lafayette 16 - Independence Bowl

Grambling St. at (17)Wisconsin 9 p.m. (Canceled)

Final OT New Orleans 128 Oklahoma City 125

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Sam Hartman completed 23 of 36 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns in what was expected to be his final game with Wake Forest, a 27-17 win over Missouri in the Gasparilla Bowl. The redshirt junior now will look at entering the NFL draft or transfer portal. Hartman threw his 108th career touchdown pass to set an Atlantic Coast Conference record on a 5-yard strike to Taylor Morin that made it 7-0 with 9:43 left in the first quarter. He had been tied with Clemson’s Tajh Boyd and ended up with 110 TD passes overall.SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) — Clayton Tune connected with Nathaniel Dell for a 12-yard touchdown with 20 seconds remaining, and Houston rallied from a 13-point deficit to beat Louisiana-Lafayette 23-16 in the Independence Bowl on Friday. The TD pass was Tune’s third of the game and 40th of the season, tying the senior with Western Kentucky’s Austin Reed for the most in the nation. Before the winning throw, he completed a 41-yard pass to KeSean Carter on first-and-30 to move Houston into Ragin’ Cajuns territory.AMHERST, N.Y. (AP) — Damian Jackson followed two tours of duty with the Navy SEALs by turning to football. He sees it as a potential career even though he never played the sport growing up. The 30-year-old University at Buffalo defensive end is set to play the final game of his college career on Tuesday, when the Bulls face Georgia Southern in the Camellia Bowl. Jackson is looking ahead to attracting NFL attention as a special teams player. He's already earned the respect from Buffalo teammates and coaches for his humility and how Jackson has led by example.AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The woman who called police to report a family violence assault by Texas basketball coach Chris Beard said Friday that Beard did not strangle her and she never wanted him arrested or prosecuted. Beard was suspended indefinitely without pay after his Dec. 12 arrest on a felony charge of strangling his fiancée, Randi Trew. In a statement sent to The Associated Press by her attorney, Trew said she is “deeply saddened” by the incident and said Beard was acting in self-defense from her. The university said in a statement that officials are reviewing Trew's statement.UNDATED (AP) — New York Jets wide receivers coach Miles Austin has been suspended by the NFL for violating the league’s gambling policy. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed the suspension, which Austin is appealing. McCarthy added the league would have no further comment until the appeal is resolved. Austin could be forced to sit out for a minimum of a year, pending the results of the appeal. The former NFL wide receiver did not coach in the Jets’ 19-3 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday night. Austin’s attorney and agent William P. Deni Jr. said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press that Austin did not gamble on football.UNDATED (AP) — Zach Wilson’s reset needed more time. The New York Jets benched the second-year quarterback for three games so he could work on his mechanics, fundamentals and mental approach. But Wilson was forced back into action in the middle of a playoff push because of Mike White’s rib injury and the flaws in his game are still very much present. And perhaps worse than ever. Being replaced by fourth-stringer Chris Streveler in a 19-3 loss to Jacksonville on Thursday night to give the offense a spark was further evidence Wilson just isn’t the guy the Jets hoped for when they drafted him No. 2 overall last year.DALLAS (AP) — A judge has ordered Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to take a paternity test as part of a legal dispute with a 26-year-old woman who claims the billionaire is her biological father. A Texas judge issued the order for genetic testing Thursday in a paternity case brought by Alexandra Davis. She previously alleged in a separate lawsuit she was conceived from a relationship Jones had with her mother in the mid-1990s. Attorneys for Jones did not immediately respond to requests for comment Friday, but said in court filings that they intend to appeal the decision.FRIDAY SCORESCOLLEGE FOOTBALLWake Forest 27, Missouri 17 -Gasparilla BowlHouston 23, Louisiana-Lafayette 16 - Independence BowlTOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLGrambling St. at (17)Wisconsin 9 p.m. (Canceled)Final (18)Indiana 69 Kennesaw St. 55NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE SATURDAYAtlanta at Baltimore 1 p.m.Buffalo at Chicago 1 p.m.Cincinnati at New England 1 p.m.Detroit at Carolina 1 p.m.Houston at Tennessee 1 p.m.N-Y Giants at Minnesota 1 p.m.New Orleans at Cleveland 1 p.m.Seattle at Kansas City 1 p.m.Washington at San Francisco 4:05 p.m.Philadelphia at Dallas 4:25 p.m.Las Vegas at Pittsburgh 8:15 p.m.NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal Orlando 133 San Antonio 113Final Philadelphia 119 L.A. Clippers 114Final Toronto 118 Cleveland 107Final Boston 121 Minnesota 109Final Atlanta 130 Detroit 105Final Brooklyn 118 Milwaukee 100Final Chicago 118 New York 117Final Indiana 111 Miami 108Final Dallas 112 Houston 106Final OT New Orleans 128 Oklahoma City 125Final Denver 120 Portland 107Final Washington 125 Sacramento 111Final Memphis 125 Phoenix 100Final Charlotte 134 L.A. Lakers 130NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEDetroit at Ottawa 7 p.m. (Postponed)Final Boston 4 New Jersey 3Final Washington 4 Winnipeg 1Final Carolina 6 Philadelphia 5Final N-Y Islanders 5 Florida 1Final Dallas 4 Montreal 2Final OT Colorado 3 Nashville 2Final Chicago 5 Columbus 2Final Vancouver 5 Edmonton 2Final SO Arizona 2 Los Angeles 1Final SO Vegas 5 St. Louis 4Final OT Calgary 3 Anaheim 2

Sports Headlines for Saturday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals announced two hires today to finalize their Major League coaching staff for the 2023 season.&nbsp;Zach Bove&nbsp;has been named the Director of Major League Pitching Strategy, Assistant Pitching Coach and&nbsp;Mitch Stetter&nbsp;has been named the Bullpen Coach.

Bove and Stetter will join Manager&nbsp;Matt Quatraro, Bench Coach&nbsp;Paul Hoover, Pitching Coach&nbsp;Brian Sweeney&nbsp;and Infield Coach&nbsp;José Alguacil&nbsp;as new hires on the Royals 2023 coaching staff.

Coaches returning from 2022 include Sr. Director of Hitting Performance, Major League Hitting Coach&nbsp;Alec Zumwalt, Assistant Hitting Coach&nbsp;Keoni DeRenne,&nbsp;Major League Field Coordinator, Third Base Coach&nbsp;Vance Wilson,&nbsp;Outfield, Baserunning and Bunting, First Base Coach&nbsp;Damon Hollins&nbsp;and Major League Coach&nbsp;Miguel Garcia.

Bove, 34, spent the last four seasons in the Minnesota Twins organization, including the last two years as the Assistant Minor League Pitching Coordinator. He began his career in the organization as the Pitching Coach for the GCL Twins in 2019. Prior to that, he spent seven seasons from 2012-18 on the coaching staff of his alma mater, the College of Central Florida. He was the Pitching Coach and Recruiting Coordinator for his final five seasons with the Patriots and developed six pitchers who were drafted by a Major League team. He earned all-conference honors as a player at Central Florida, before finishing his collegiate career at Flagler College. He also owns a master’s degree from the University of Missouri.

Stetter, 41, has spent the last eight seasons in the Royals organization, including the last three years from 2020-22 as the Manager of Pitching Performance. Before that, he was the Pitching Coach at Lexington from 2016-19 and held the same title with Surprise in 2015. Stetter pitched for five seasons in the Majors with Milwaukee from 2007-11 and in 2009, he set a Brewers record by recording 15 consecutive outs on strikeouts.

The Major League support staff will feature many familiar faces in 2023, including Bullpen Catcher, Pitching Strategist&nbsp;Parker Morin, Bullpen Catcher, Hitting Strategist&nbsp;Allan de San Miguel, Pitching Strategist&nbsp;Andy Ferguson, Rehab Coach&nbsp;Ryan Eigsti&nbsp;and Replay Coordinator&nbsp;Bill Duplissea.

The Major League Medical, Strength &amp; Conditioning team will remain in tact for 2023, including Director of Major League, Medical Administration&nbsp;Nick Kenney, Head Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Kyle Turner, Assistant Major League Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Chris DeLucia, Manual Tissue Therapist/Second Assistant Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Dave Iannicca, Major League Rehab Coordinator&nbsp;Jeff Blum, Head Major League Strength Coach&nbsp;Ryan Stoneberg, Major League Strength Coach/Translator&nbsp;Luis Perez&nbsp;and Director of Sports Nutrition&nbsp;Erika Wincheski.&nbsp;Melissa Lambert&nbsp;will also be on the staff as Director of Behavioral Science, Major League Mental Performance, after spending the last three years with the Royals as an assistant to that role.

Sr. Director of Hitting Performance, Major League Hitting Coach&nbsp;Alec Zumwalt

Assistant Hitting Coach&nbsp;Keoni DeRenne

Director of Major League Pitching Strategy, Assistant Pitching Coach&nbsp;Zach Bove

Major League Field Coordinator, Third Base Coach&nbsp;Vance Wilson

Outfield, Baserunning and Bunting, First Base Coach&nbsp;Damon Hollins

Bullpen Catcher, Pitching Strategist&nbsp;Parker Morin

Bullpen Catcher, Hitting Strategist&nbsp;Allan de San Miguel

Medical, Strength &amp; Conditioning, Mental Performance

Director of Major League, Medical Administration&nbsp;Nick Kenney

Assistant Major League Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Chris DeLucia

Manual Tissue Therapist/ Second Assistant Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Dave Iannicca

Major League Rehab Coordinator&nbsp;Jeff Blum

Head Major League Strength Coach&nbsp;Ryan Stoneberg

Major League Strength Coach/ Translator&nbsp;Luis Perez

Director of Sports Nutrition&nbsp;Erika Wincheski

Director of Behavioral Science, Major League Mental Performance&nbsp;Melissa Lambert

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals announced two hires today to finalize their Major League coaching staff for the 2023 season.&nbsp;Zach Bove&nbsp;has been named the Director of Major League Pitching Strategy, Assistant Pitching Coach and&nbsp;Mitch Stetter&nbsp;has been named the Bullpen Coach.Bove and Stetter will join Manager&nbsp;Matt Quatraro, Bench Coach&nbsp;Paul Hoover, Pitching Coach&nbsp;Brian Sweeney&nbsp;and Infield Coach&nbsp;José Alguacil&nbsp;as new hires on the Royals 2023 coaching staff.Coaches returning from 2022 include Sr. Director of Hitting Performance, Major League Hitting Coach&nbsp;Alec Zumwalt, Assistant Hitting Coach&nbsp;Keoni DeRenne,&nbsp;Major League Field Coordinator, Third Base Coach&nbsp;Vance Wilson,&nbsp;Outfield, Baserunning and Bunting, First Base Coach&nbsp;Damon Hollins&nbsp;and Major League Coach&nbsp;Miguel Garcia.Bove, 34, spent the last four seasons in the Minnesota Twins organization, including the last two years as the Assistant Minor League Pitching Coordinator. He began his career in the organization as the Pitching Coach for the GCL Twins in 2019. Prior to that, he spent seven seasons from 2012-18 on the coaching staff of his alma mater, the College of Central Florida. He was the Pitching Coach and Recruiting Coordinator for his final five seasons with the Patriots and developed six pitchers who were drafted by a Major League team. He earned all-conference honors as a player at Central Florida, before finishing his collegiate career at Flagler College. He also owns a master’s degree from the University of Missouri.Stetter, 41, has spent the last eight seasons in the Royals organization, including the last three years from 2020-22 as the Manager of Pitching Performance. Before that, he was the Pitching Coach at Lexington from 2016-19 and held the same title with Surprise in 2015. Stetter pitched for five seasons in the Majors with Milwaukee from 2007-11 and in 2009, he set a Brewers record by recording 15 consecutive outs on strikeouts.The Major League support staff will feature many familiar faces in 2023, including Bullpen Catcher, Pitching Strategist&nbsp;Parker Morin, Bullpen Catcher, Hitting Strategist&nbsp;Allan de San Miguel, Pitching Strategist&nbsp;Andy Ferguson, Rehab Coach&nbsp;Ryan Eigsti&nbsp;and Replay Coordinator&nbsp;Bill Duplissea.The Major League Medical, Strength &amp; Conditioning team will remain in tact for 2023, including Director of Major League, Medical Administration&nbsp;Nick Kenney, Head Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Kyle Turner, Assistant Major League Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Chris DeLucia, Manual Tissue Therapist/Second Assistant Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Dave Iannicca, Major League Rehab Coordinator&nbsp;Jeff Blum, Head Major League Strength Coach&nbsp;Ryan Stoneberg, Major League Strength Coach/Translator&nbsp;Luis Perez&nbsp;and Director of Sports Nutrition&nbsp;Erika Wincheski.&nbsp;Melissa Lambert&nbsp;will also be on the staff as Director of Behavioral Science, Major League Mental Performance, after spending the last three years with the Royals as an assistant to that role.Royals 2023 Coaching StaffManager&nbsp;Matt QuatraroBench Coach&nbsp;Paul HooverSr. Director of Hitting Performance, Major League Hitting Coach&nbsp;Alec ZumwaltAssistant Hitting Coach&nbsp;Keoni DeRennePitching Coach&nbsp;Brian SweeneyDirector of Major League Pitching Strategy, Assistant Pitching Coach&nbsp;Zach BoveBullpen Coach&nbsp;Mitch StetterMajor League Field Coordinator, Third Base Coach&nbsp;Vance WilsonOutfield, Baserunning and Bunting, First Base Coach&nbsp;Damon HollinsInfield Coach&nbsp;José AlguacilMajor League Coach&nbsp;Miguel GarciaSupport StaffBullpen Catcher, Pitching Strategist&nbsp;Parker MorinBullpen Catcher, Hitting Strategist&nbsp;Allan de San MiguelPitching Strategist&nbsp;Andy FergusonRehab Coach&nbsp;Ryan EigstiReplay Coordinator&nbsp;Bill DuplisseaMedical, Strength &amp; Conditioning, Mental PerformanceDirector of Major League, Medical Administration&nbsp;Nick KenneyHead Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Kyle TurnerAssistant Major League Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Chris DeLuciaManual Tissue Therapist/ Second Assistant Athletic Trainer&nbsp;Dave IanniccaMajor League Rehab Coordinator&nbsp;Jeff BlumHead Major League Strength Coach&nbsp;Ryan StonebergMajor League Strength Coach/ Translator&nbsp;Luis PerezDirector of Sports Nutrition&nbsp;Erika WincheskiDirector of Behavioral Science, Major League Mental Performance&nbsp;Melissa Lambert

⚾ Royals complete 2023 coaching staff

HUTCHINSON, Kan.:&nbsp;(Transcript from KWBW Sports)&nbsp;7:10am on BW Radio, time to turn to sports,&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jalen Wilson scored 21 points as #4 Kansas beat Harvard 68-54 Thursday night at Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks now 11-1, 14 for 20 from behind the ARC. No player besides Grady Dick hit one until Wilson made one with just over a minute remaining. Wilson scored 11 points in the final 6:24. Kevin McCullough had 14. Dick had 11 going 3 for 7 from distance. K.J. Adams Jr. had 10. Chris Ludlam had 17 for Harvard as they dropped to 8-5. 

Evan Nelson scored 10 at the Roundhouse in Wichita. Jaron Pierre Junior scored 8 of his game high 18 in the final 3:17 to help Wichita State put away upset minded Texas Southern 65-56 at Charles Kock Arena. James Rojas added 14 points. Jaquan Walton claimed his third double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds for the night with 7 and 5 shockers. Who lost starting point guard Craig Porter Jr. to an ankle injury near the 18 minute mark of the second half, but found just enough offense to stay afloat. Devon Barnes and Jordan Carl Nicholas did the bulk of the damage for Texas southern 3 and 9. They were the preseason favorite to win the SWAC. 

The Shockers led by 16 near the 12 minute mark but missed 12 of their next 13 shots and the Tigers got as close as three, with 327 to go before the Shockers put the game away. 

And the Kansas City Chiefs can't climb into first place in the AFC and secure that first round playoff bye with a win over Seattle on Saturday. Nor can the Seahawks slip into the postseason by knocking off the West division champs. But a loss for either of them might ruin both of their chances for those long term goals. The Chiefs tied with the bills at 11 and 3 for the conference's best record could be out of the hunt for the top seed if they lose on Saturday. Playoff hopes of the Seahawks are hanging by a thread. 

We'll have coverage of the Chiefs and Seahawks on Saturday starting at 11 a.m. here on BW Radio.  

That's BW Radio Sports for Friday Morning. 

<div><iframe title="Eagle Radio Sports for Friday Morning, Decembder 23rd, 2022" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5vj56-1346836-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>HUTCHINSON, Kan.:&nbsp;(Transcript from KWBW Sports)&nbsp;7:10am on BW Radio, time to turn to sports,&nbsp; &nbsp;Jalen Wilson scored 21 points as #4 Kansas beat Harvard 68-54 Thursday night at Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks now 11-1, 14 for 20 from behind the ARC. No player besides Grady Dick hit one until Wilson made one with just over a minute remaining. Wilson scored 11 points in the final 6:24. Kevin McCullough had 14. Dick had 11 going 3 for 7 from distance. K.J. Adams Jr. had 10. Chris Ludlam had 17 for Harvard as they dropped to 8-5. Evan Nelson scored 10 at the Roundhouse in Wichita. Jaron Pierre Junior scored 8 of his game high 18 in the final 3:17 to help Wichita State put away upset minded Texas Southern 65-56 at Charles Kock Arena. James Rojas added 14 points. Jaquan Walton claimed his third double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds for the night with 7 and 5 shockers. Who lost starting point guard Craig Porter Jr. to an ankle injury near the 18 minute mark of the second half, but found just enough offense to stay afloat. Devon Barnes and Jordan Carl Nicholas did the bulk of the damage for Texas southern 3 and 9. They were the preseason favorite to win the SWAC. The Shockers led by 16 near the 12 minute mark but missed 12 of their next 13 shots and the Tigers got as close as three, with 327 to go before the Shockers put the game away. And the Kansas City Chiefs can't climb into first place in the AFC and secure that first round playoff bye with a win over Seattle on Saturday. Nor can the Seahawks slip into the postseason by knocking off the West division champs. But a loss for either of them might ruin both of their chances for those long term goals. The Chiefs tied with the bills at 11 and 3 for the conference's best record could be out of the hunt for the top seed if they lose on Saturday. Playoff hopes of the Seahawks are hanging by a thread. We'll have coverage of the Chiefs and Seahawks on Saturday starting at 11 a.m. here on BW Radio. That's BW Radio Sports for Friday Morning. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 📰 Eagle Media Sports for Friday Morning

Trevor Bauer reinstated by MLB's independent arbitrator

NEW YORK (AP) — Trevor Bauer has been reinstated by Major League Baseball's independent arbitrator, allowing the pitcher to resume his career at the start of the 2023 season. The Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher was given an unprecedented two-season suspension without pay by baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred on April 29. The suspension was for violating the league's domestic violence and sexual assault policy after a San Diego woman said Bauer beat and sexually abused her last year. Bauer denied the accusation. Major League Baseball said arbitrator Martin Scheinman upheld a 194-game suspension but reinstated Bauer immediately. The suspension will cost Bauer more than $37 million in salary.

Lawrence, Jaguars continue playoff push, outclass Jets 19-3

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Trevor Lawrence leaped for a touchdown and the Jacksonville Jaguars continued their push toward the playoffs with their third straight victory, 19-3 over an embarrassed Zach Wilson and the New York Jets on a rainy, windy night. Lawrence finished 20 of 31 for 229 yards and ran for 51 yards and the score on seven carries for the Jaguars. Wilson was booed frequently before he was replaced in the third quarter by Chris Streveler, elevated from the practice squad before the game. Jacksonville would win the AFC South title with victories in its final two games.

Boras: Giants wouldn't seal Correa deal, so he called Mets

NEW YORK (AP) — Agent Scott Boras says the San Francisco Giants asked for more time to investigate and discuss medical records of Carlos Correa and let a 1 p.m. PST deadline Tuesday pass to finalize that deal. Boras then struck a $315 million, 12-year deal with the free-spending Mets and Correa headed to New York for a physical Thursday. Boras said results usually come back within 24-48 hours and timing of an announcement was up to the team. A news conference likely won't be scheduled until next month, after the holiday break.

Sports unraveled, collided with politics, racism in 2022

Hardly a day passed in 2022 when a headline that ran across the ticker on ESPN wouldn't have been out of place on CNN or Fox Business. There was the saga of basketball player Brittney Griner, Russia's invasion and war on Ukraine and the struggle over transgender athletes among other topics that laid bare the intersection between sports and real life. There were also toxic workplace environments in the NBA and NFL, alleged sexual misconduct by an NFL player, countries using sports to cover up their perceived sins, a cryptocurrency influx and crash and the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply, sports offered another window into the world.

England World Cup winner George Cohen dies at 83

LONDON (AP) — The English Football Association says World Cup winner George Cohen has died. He was 83. Cohen played on England's World Cup-winning team in 1966. The right back played every minute of the victorious campaign on home soil. He made 37 appearances for his national team. A cause of death was not announced. The defender played his entire club career for Fulham. He made 459 appearances for the team between 1956 and 1969. He retired from playing at 29 after a serious knee injury. He was the vice-captain for England when the team beat West Germany 4-2 in the 1966 World Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

NFL 'Sunday Ticket' headed to YouTube beginning next season

The NFL has announced a multiyear agreement with Google for "NFL Sunday Ticket." The package of out-of-market Sunday afternoon games will be distributed on YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels. The NFL was seeking $2.5 billion per season for the package, which has been on DirecTV since 1994. The satellite provider has paid $1.5 billion per year on an eight-year contract that expires at the end of this season. Besides Amazon, Apple and ESPN also expressed interest in "NFL Sunday Ticket."

EXPLAINER: Why are baseball teams spending so much money?

It has been an epic holiday season already for several major league teams and players a year after baseball trudged through an ugly labor dispute. Aaron Judge, Carlos Correa and Trea Turner combined for almost $1 billion in player contracts. Xander Bogaerts, Jacob deGrom, Dansby Swanson, Carlos Rodón, Brandon Nimmo and Willson Contreras added up to another billion. Major League Baseball's March labor deal with the players' union is a major engine behind the spending, along with a deep group of free agent options.

Injured Eagles QB Hurts expected to be sidelined at Dallas

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is not expected to play Saturday against Dallas because of a sprained right shoulder. Philadelphia will instead start Gardner Minshew. Hurts was injured on a hard tackle in Sunday's win at Chicago. The Eagles have the best record in the NFL at 13-1 and can clinch the NFC East title and the No. 1 seed in the conference with a win against the Cowboys.

Steelers QB Kenny Pickett ready to go after 2nd concussion

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett is taking extra precautions as he returns from the concussion protocol for a second time this season. Pickett will wear a larger helmet that offers more protection for the back of his head when the Steelers face Las Vegas on Christmas Eve. Pickett says each of the two concussions he's sustained this season came when the back of his head hit the Acrisure Stadium turf. Pickett added he's not worried that he's become concussion prone and believes the decision to have him miss a win over Carolina on Dec. 18 was the right call.

Titans' Tannehill out vs. Texans, rookie QB Willis to start

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee rookie Malik Willis will start his third NFL game Saturday against the Houston Texans with veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill ruled out with an injured right ankle. Titans coach Mike Vrabel refused to discuss Tannehill's future beyond this game. Vrabel said Thursday that Tannehill is only out this week. The Titans coach said he doesn't have to issue an injury report for next week until next week. The Titans (7-7) sit atop the AFC South looking for a third straight division title, yet their once four-game lead is down to one with three games remaining.

AP Sports Summary for Friday MorningTrevor Bauer reinstated by MLB's independent arbitratorNEW YORK (AP) — Trevor Bauer has been reinstated by Major League Baseball's independent arbitrator, allowing the pitcher to resume his career at the start of the 2023 season. The Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher was given an unprecedented two-season suspension without pay by baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred on April 29. The suspension was for violating the league's domestic violence and sexual assault policy after a San Diego woman said Bauer beat and sexually abused her last year. Bauer denied the accusation. Major League Baseball said arbitrator Martin Scheinman upheld a 194-game suspension but reinstated Bauer immediately. The suspension will cost Bauer more than $37 million in salary.Lawrence, Jaguars continue playoff push, outclass Jets 19-3EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Trevor Lawrence leaped for a touchdown and the Jacksonville Jaguars continued their push toward the playoffs with their third straight victory, 19-3 over an embarrassed Zach Wilson and the New York Jets on a rainy, windy night. Lawrence finished 20 of 31 for 229 yards and ran for 51 yards and the score on seven carries for the Jaguars. Wilson was booed frequently before he was replaced in the third quarter by Chris Streveler, elevated from the practice squad before the game. Jacksonville would win the AFC South title with victories in its final two games.Boras: Giants wouldn't seal Correa deal, so he called MetsNEW YORK (AP) — Agent Scott Boras says the San Francisco Giants asked for more time to investigate and discuss medical records of Carlos Correa and let a 1 p.m. PST deadline Tuesday pass to finalize that deal. Boras then struck a $315 million, 12-year deal with the free-spending Mets and Correa headed to New York for a physical Thursday. Boras said results usually come back within 24-48 hours and timing of an announcement was up to the team. A news conference likely won't be scheduled until next month, after the holiday break.Sports unraveled, collided with politics, racism in 2022Hardly a day passed in 2022 when a headline that ran across the ticker on ESPN wouldn't have been out of place on CNN or Fox Business. There was the saga of basketball player Brittney Griner, Russia's invasion and war on Ukraine and the struggle over transgender athletes among other topics that laid bare the intersection between sports and real life. There were also toxic workplace environments in the NBA and NFL, alleged sexual misconduct by an NFL player, countries using sports to cover up their perceived sins, a cryptocurrency influx and crash and the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply, sports offered another window into the world.England World Cup winner George Cohen dies at 83LONDON (AP) — The English Football Association says World Cup winner George Cohen has died. He was 83. Cohen played on England's World Cup-winning team in 1966. The right back played every minute of the victorious campaign on home soil. He made 37 appearances for his national team. A cause of death was not announced. The defender played his entire club career for Fulham. He made 459 appearances for the team between 1956 and 1969. He retired from playing at 29 after a serious knee injury. He was the vice-captain for England when the team beat West Germany 4-2 in the 1966 World Cup final at Wembley Stadium.NFL 'Sunday Ticket' headed to YouTube beginning next seasonThe NFL has announced a multiyear agreement with Google for "NFL Sunday Ticket." The package of out-of-market Sunday afternoon games will be distributed on YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels. The NFL was seeking $2.5 billion per season for the package, which has been on DirecTV since 1994. The satellite provider has paid $1.5 billion per year on an eight-year contract that expires at the end of this season. Besides Amazon, Apple and ESPN also expressed interest in "NFL Sunday Ticket."EXPLAINER: Why are baseball teams spending so much money?It has been an epic holiday season already for several major league teams and players a year after baseball trudged through an ugly labor dispute. Aaron Judge, Carlos Correa and Trea Turner combined for almost $1 billion in player contracts. Xander Bogaerts, Jacob deGrom, Dansby Swanson, Carlos Rodón, Brandon Nimmo and Willson Contreras added up to another billion. Major League Baseball's March labor deal with the players' union is a major engine behind the spending, along with a deep group of free agent options.Injured Eagles QB Hurts expected to be sidelined at DallasPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is not expected to play Saturday against Dallas because of a sprained right shoulder. Philadelphia will instead start Gardner Minshew. Hurts was injured on a hard tackle in Sunday's win at Chicago. The Eagles have the best record in the NFL at 13-1 and can clinch the NFC East title and the No. 1 seed in the conference with a win against the Cowboys.Steelers QB Kenny Pickett ready to go after 2nd concussionPITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett is taking extra precautions as he returns from the concussion protocol for a second time this season. Pickett will wear a larger helmet that offers more protection for the back of his head when the Steelers face Las Vegas on Christmas Eve. Pickett says each of the two concussions he's sustained this season came when the back of his head hit the Acrisure Stadium turf. Pickett added he's not worried that he's become concussion prone and believes the decision to have him miss a win over Carolina on Dec. 18 was the right call.Titans' Tannehill out vs. Texans, rookie QB Willis to startNASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee rookie Malik Willis will start his third NFL game Saturday against the Houston Texans with veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill ruled out with an injured right ankle. Titans coach Mike Vrabel refused to discuss Tannehill's future beyond this game. Vrabel said Thursday that Tannehill is only out this week. The Titans coach said he doesn't have to issue an injury report for next week until next week. The Titans (7-7) sit atop the AFC South looking for a third straight division title, yet their once four-game lead is down to one with three games remaining.

📰 Sports Headlines for Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs can’t climb into first place in the AFC and secure that coveted first-round playoff bye with a win over Seattle on Saturday, nor can the Seahawks slip into the postseason by knocking off the West Division champs.

But a loss for either of them? That might ruin both of their chances.

The Chiefs, who are tied with the Bills at 11-3 for the conference’s best record, could be out of the hunt for the top seed if they fall at Arrowhead Stadium. Buffalo has the head-to-head tiebreaker by virtue of its win earlier this season.

The playoff hopes of the Seahawks, who are 7-7 and have lost four of their last five, are hanging by a thread.

“The guys know. They’ve been though this so they understand it,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid, whose team has hosted the past four AFC title games. “The only thing I have to say is we’ve got a quarter of the season left and very important games, so we’ve got to take care of our business, and that’s where our focus has got to be.”

The Chiefs have been squeaking by the past few weeks, hardly looking like the juggernaut that’s been to two of the past three Super Bowls. They lost at Cincinnati, barely held on against downtrodden Denver and needed overtime last week to beat one-win Houston and maintain their hopes of the No. 1 seed.

The biggest issues for Kansas City have been self-inflicted: The Chiefs had 10 penalties for more than 100 yards against the Texans, and they have committed at least one turnover in nine consecutive games.

“The biggest thing,” said Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is riding a streak of 20 consecutive completions, “is that you just focus on getting better as a team. You want to be playing your best football as you get to the playoffs, and we have stuff we need to clean up. That will be important this week.”

The Seahawks have things to clean up, too. More important, they desperately need to get healthy. Wide receiver Tyler Lockett is out with an injury while running back Kenneth Walker III continues to deal with a sore ankle.

“Let’s just start with this game. We’ve got to play really sharp football across the board,” Seattle coach Pete Carroll said. “We have to take advantage of all the opportunities that we get. We’ve got to catch the interceptions, we’ve got to stay onsides and not give them things. We have to make them have to work and play a championship-style game.

“If we can do that,” Carroll said, “now we are getting to our capabilities.”

Lockett will miss just the second game of his long career due to injury after breaking a bone in his left hand last week against San Francisco; he had surgery to stabilize it this week and hopes to return this season.

Lockett and DK Metcalf have been a dangerous tandem, the former with 78 catches and eight TDs and the latter with 79 and six. And while Marquise Goodwin has been a nice addition, and former first-rounder Laquon Treadwell could see some snaps, Lockett’s absence is going to mean Metcalf gets more attention.

“It’s always going to be strange whenever Tyler is not playing, or somebody has been there for so long and not playing,” Metcalf said. “It’s just another challenge along the way that we’ve got to overcome.”

Seattle showed improvement in stopping the run against San Francisco. Even though it still allowed 170 yards, it held the 49ers to 3.5 per carry until a long run late in the game. The performance was especially encouraging given the Seahawks didn’t have nose tackle Al Woods and backup Bryan Mone hurt his knee in the first quarter.

“Some execution things were pretty good, but again, we are not into the whole moral victory thing,” said coordinator Clint Hurtt, whose defense is allowing 161.1 yards per game on the ground, better than only one team in the league.

Walker is still dealing with a sore ankle that the Seahawks rookie first injured earlier this month against the Rams; he had 12 carries for 47 yards against the Niners but was still sore days later. And backup DeeJay Dallas is still trying to come back from a high ankle sprain. That could mean another opportunity for Travis Homer in the Seattle backfield.

The Chiefs expect wide receiver Mecole Hardman to play for the first time since Week 9, when he landed on injured reserve with an abdominal problem. He had scored in three straight games with five TDs total before getting hurt.

“Yeah, there’s a good chance,” Reid said. “We’ll see if we can’t get him in there a little bit.”

An illness swept through the Chiefs defense this week, sidelining Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones, run stuffer Khalen Saunders, pass rusher Mike Danna and safety Deon Bush for practice. Jones was noticeably ill during last week’s win over the Texans, playing just 40 of 63 defensive snaps.

DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs can’t climb into first place in the AFC and secure that coveted first-round playoff bye with a win over Seattle on Saturday, nor can the Seahawks slip into the postseason by knocking off the West Division champs.But a loss for either of them? That might ruin both of their chances.The Chiefs, who are tied with the Bills at 11-3 for the conference’s best record, could be out of the hunt for the top seed if they fall at Arrowhead Stadium. Buffalo has the head-to-head tiebreaker by virtue of its win earlier this season.The playoff hopes of the Seahawks, who are 7-7 and have lost four of their last five, are hanging by a thread.“The guys know. They’ve been though this so they understand it,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid, whose team has hosted the past four AFC title games. “The only thing I have to say is we’ve got a quarter of the season left and very important games, so we’ve got to take care of our business, and that’s where our focus has got to be.”The Chiefs have been squeaking by the past few weeks, hardly looking like the juggernaut that’s been to two of the past three Super Bowls. They lost at Cincinnati, barely held on against downtrodden Denver and needed overtime last week to beat one-win Houston and maintain their hopes of the No. 1 seed.The biggest issues for Kansas City have been self-inflicted: The Chiefs had 10 penalties for more than 100 yards against the Texans, and they have committed at least one turnover in nine consecutive games.“The biggest thing,” said Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is riding a streak of 20 consecutive completions, “is that you just focus on getting better as a team. You want to be playing your best football as you get to the playoffs, and we have stuff we need to clean up. That will be important this week.”The Seahawks have things to clean up, too. More important, they desperately need to get healthy. Wide receiver Tyler Lockett is out with an injury while running back Kenneth Walker III continues to deal with a sore ankle.“Let’s just start with this game. We’ve got to play really sharp football across the board,” Seattle coach Pete Carroll said. “We have to take advantage of all the opportunities that we get. We’ve got to catch the interceptions, we’ve got to stay onsides and not give them things. We have to make them have to work and play a championship-style game.“If we can do that,” Carroll said, “now we are getting to our capabilities.”BROKEN LOCKETTLockett will miss just the second game of his long career due to injury after breaking a bone in his left hand last week against San Francisco; he had surgery to stabilize it this week and hopes to return this season.Lockett and DK Metcalf have been a dangerous tandem, the former with 78 catches and eight TDs and the latter with 79 and six. And while Marquise Goodwin has been a nice addition, and former first-rounder Laquon Treadwell could see some snaps, Lockett’s absence is going to mean Metcalf gets more attention.ADVERTISEMENT“It’s always going to be strange whenever Tyler is not playing, or somebody has been there for so long and not playing,” Metcalf said. “It’s just another challenge along the way that we’ve got to overcome.”RUN TO DAYLIGHTSeattle showed improvement in stopping the run against San Francisco. Even though it still allowed 170 yards, it held the 49ers to 3.5 per carry until a long run late in the game. The performance was especially encouraging given the Seahawks didn’t have nose tackle Al Woods and backup Bryan Mone hurt his knee in the first quarter.“Some execution things were pretty good, but again, we are not into the whole moral victory thing,” said coordinator Clint Hurtt, whose defense is allowing 161.1 yards per game on the ground, better than only one team in the league.BANGED-UP BACKFIELDWalker is still dealing with a sore ankle that the Seahawks rookie first injured earlier this month against the Rams; he had 12 carries for 47 yards against the Niners but was still sore days later. And backup DeeJay Dallas is still trying to come back from a high ankle sprain. That could mean another opportunity for Travis Homer in the Seattle backfield.SPEAKING OF INJURIESThe Chiefs expect wide receiver Mecole Hardman to play for the first time since Week 9, when he landed on injured reserve with an abdominal problem. He had scored in three straight games with five TDs total before getting hurt.“Yeah, there’s a good chance,” Reid said. “We’ll see if we can’t get him in there a little bit.”COVER YOUR COUGHAn illness swept through the Chiefs defense this week, sidelining Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones, run stuffer Khalen Saunders, pass rusher Mike Danna and safety Deon Bush for practice. Jones was noticeably ill during last week’s win over the Texans, playing just 40 of 63 defensive snaps.

🏈 Chiefs and Seattle to play Saturday in Kansas City

<a href="https://goshockers.com/">Via GoShockers.com</a>

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/jaron-pierre-jr-/7215">Jaron Pierre Jr.</a>&nbsp;scored eight of his game-high 18 points in the final 3:17 to help Wichita State put away upset-minded Texas Southern, 65-56, on a bitterly cold Thursday evening at Charles Koch Arena. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/james-rojas/7210">James Rojas</a>&nbsp;added 14 points and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/jaykwon-walton/7208">Jaykwon Walton</a>&nbsp;claimed his third double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds for WSU (7-5), which lost starting point guard&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/craig-porter-jr-/7213">Craig Porter Jr.</a>&nbsp;to an ankle injury near the 18:00-mark of the second half but found just enough offense to stay afloat. Davon Barnes&nbsp;(16 points, nine rebounds) and&nbsp;Joirdon&nbsp;Karl Nicholas&nbsp;(12 points, 12 rebounds) did the bulk of the damage for Texas Southern (3-9), the preseason favorite to win the SWAC. The Shockers led by 16 near the 12:00-mark but missed 12 of their next 13 shots, along with the front-end of three different one-and-one opportunities. The Tigers capitalized with a 15-2 run. A pair of&nbsp;Kehlin Farooq&nbsp;free throws cut the deficit to 52-49 with 3:27 to go. WSU finally solved the Tiger press and scored on its next five possessions to restore order. Pierre threw down a contested dunk and hit a step-back jumper to set off a 10-2 run. The sophomore finished 8-of-13 from the field with three dunks. Helped by Pierre and Rojas, reserves accounted for 42 of the 65 Shocker points. WSU made just 2-of-14 threes on the night but outshot the visitors 44.6% to 32.4%. TSU endured its own cold spell early in the first half when it missed 16 of its first 18 attempts. The Shockers raced to leads of 14-7 and 22-11. It was 32-22 after Porter beat the halftime horn with a mid-range jumper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://goshockers.com/">Via GoShockers.com</a><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/jaron-pierre-jr-/7215">Jaron Pierre Jr.</a>&nbsp;scored eight of his game-high 18 points in the final 3:17 to help Wichita State put away upset-minded Texas Southern, 65-56, on a bitterly cold Thursday evening at Charles Koch Arena. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/james-rojas/7210">James Rojas</a>&nbsp;added 14 points and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/jaykwon-walton/7208">Jaykwon Walton</a>&nbsp;claimed his third double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds for WSU (7-5), which lost starting point guard&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/craig-porter-jr-/7213">Craig Porter Jr.</a>&nbsp;to an ankle injury near the 18:00-mark of the second half but found just enough offense to stay afloat. Davon Barnes&nbsp;(16 points, nine rebounds) and&nbsp;Joirdon&nbsp;Karl Nicholas&nbsp;(12 points, 12 rebounds) did the bulk of the damage for Texas Southern (3-9), the preseason favorite to win the SWAC. The Shockers led by 16 near the 12:00-mark but missed 12 of their next 13 shots, along with the front-end of three different one-and-one opportunities. The Tigers capitalized with a 15-2 run. A pair of&nbsp;Kehlin Farooq&nbsp;free throws cut the deficit to 52-49 with 3:27 to go. WSU finally solved the Tiger press and scored on its next five possessions to restore order. Pierre threw down a contested dunk and hit a step-back jumper to set off a 10-2 run. The sophomore finished 8-of-13 from the field with three dunks. Helped by Pierre and Rojas, reserves accounted for 42 of the 65 Shocker points. WSU made just 2-of-14 threes on the night but outshot the visitors 44.6% to 32.4%. TSU endured its own cold spell early in the first half when it missed 16 of its first 18 attempts. The Shockers raced to leads of 14-7 and 22-11. It was 32-22 after Porter beat the halftime horn with a mid-range jumper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 MBB: Shockers put away Texas Southern

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) —&nbsp;Jalen Wilson scored 21 points as No. 4 Kansas beat Harvard 68-54 on Thursday night at Allen Fieldhouse.

The Jayhawks (11-1) went 4 for 20 from behind the arc, with no player besides Gradey Dick hitting one until Wilson made one with just over a minute remaining. Wilson scored 11 points in the final 6:24.

“I was not pleased with Jalen tonight,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “He didn’t guard his man and he didn’t move the ball. He kind of stood. But he’s a stud. He closed the game out the way winners close games out. There’s 35 minutes of game that’s really important, but the last five matter more than anything else. He played like an All-American in the last five minutes.”

Kevin McCullar Jr. added 14 points and Dick had 11, going 3 for 7 behind the arc. KJ Adams Jr. had 10.

Wilson reached the 1,000-point plateau with his 16th point. He knew he needed to take charge late in the game.

“Down the stretch I was trying to be aggressive and attack the paint,” he said. “As a leader, I was not in a very good mood. They got way too comfortable shooting the ball. A lot of that was because of my defense. I felt like I owed it to my team to be as aggressive as I could to win the game.”

Chris Ledlum had 17 points for Harvard (8-5). Evan Nelson scored 10.

“I thought (Ledlum) was the best player in the game until the end,” Self said.

Kansas stretched the lead to 11 points early in the second half, but Harvard would not go away. The Crimson trailed by four points when Dajuan Harris Jr. stole an inbounds pass and fed it to Dick, who drained a 3-pointer.

The Crimson were 4 of 11 from behind the arc in the second half.

Wilson finally gave the Jayhawks a comfortable lead with a pair of buckets to extend the lead to 55-46. Then he blocked a dunk attempt by Ledlum.

Harvard hung with Kansas through most of the first half. The score was tied at 20-all at the final media timeout of the first half.

Neither team shot particularly well in the first half. Kansas raised their shooting percentage late to 44.8%. Harvard finished at 34.6%. At one stretch late in the half, each team missed eight out of nine shots.

Kansas concluded the half on a 16-3 run to take a 32-23 lead into the locker room. Harvard scored just six points in the final 10:13.

Harvard: The Crimson were not intimidated by the raucous crowd at Allen Fieldhouse. Every time Kansas stretched the lead, Harvard responded.

Kansas: Kansas will go as far as Jalen Wilson goes. A starter but not the star on last season’s national championship team, he is the leader in every way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671763884812.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy KU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) —&nbsp;Jalen Wilson scored 21 points as No. 4 Kansas beat Harvard 68-54 on Thursday night at Allen Fieldhouse.The Jayhawks (11-1) went 4 for 20 from behind the arc, with no player besides Gradey Dick hitting one until Wilson made one with just over a minute remaining. Wilson scored 11 points in the final 6:24.“I was not pleased with Jalen tonight,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “He didn’t guard his man and he didn’t move the ball. He kind of stood. But he’s a stud. He closed the game out the way winners close games out. There’s 35 minutes of game that’s really important, but the last five matter more than anything else. He played like an All-American in the last five minutes.”Kevin McCullar Jr. added 14 points and Dick had 11, going 3 for 7 behind the arc. KJ Adams Jr. had 10.Wilson reached the 1,000-point plateau with his 16th point. He knew he needed to take charge late in the game.“Down the stretch I was trying to be aggressive and attack the paint,” he said. “As a leader, I was not in a very good mood. They got way too comfortable shooting the ball. A lot of that was because of my defense. I felt like I owed it to my team to be as aggressive as I could to win the game.”Chris Ledlum had 17 points for Harvard (8-5). Evan Nelson scored 10.“I thought (Ledlum) was the best player in the game until the end,” Self said.Kansas stretched the lead to 11 points early in the second half, but Harvard would not go away. The Crimson trailed by four points when Dajuan Harris Jr. stole an inbounds pass and fed it to Dick, who drained a 3-pointer.The Crimson were 4 of 11 from behind the arc in the second half.Wilson finally gave the Jayhawks a comfortable lead with a pair of buckets to extend the lead to 55-46. Then he blocked a dunk attempt by Ledlum.Harvard hung with Kansas through most of the first half. The score was tied at 20-all at the final media timeout of the first half.Neither team shot particularly well in the first half. Kansas raised their shooting percentage late to 44.8%. Harvard finished at 34.6%. At one stretch late in the half, each team missed eight out of nine shots.Kansas concluded the half on a 16-3 run to take a 32-23 lead into the locker room. Harvard scored just six points in the final 10:13.THE TAKEAWAYHarvard: The Crimson were not intimidated by the raucous crowd at Allen Fieldhouse. Every time Kansas stretched the lead, Harvard responded.Kansas: Kansas will go as far as Jalen Wilson goes. A starter but not the star on last season’s national championship team, he is the leader in every way.UP NEXTHarvard: The Crimson will conclude the non-conference portion of their schedule with a road contest at Maine on Wednesday before opening up Ivy League play on the road at Princeton on New Year’s Eve.Kansas: The Jayhawks have nine days off before opening Big 12 action on New Year’s Eve with an afternoon game against Oklahoma State.