TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Antonio Phillips returned an early interception 53 yards for a touchdown, Drew Plitt accounted for two scores and Ball State beat short-handed No. 19 San Jose State 34-13 in the Arizona Bowl. San Jose State had to play without its two coordinators and Mountain West Conference player of the year Cade Hall due to COVID-19 and other issues. The Cardinals took advantage, quick-hitting their way down the field on offense after Phillips’ interception for a 27-0 lead in the first quarter. The Mid-American champions bogged down in the second half but had four interceptions to win their first bowl game in 10 tries.

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Antonio Phillips returned an early interception 53 yards for a touchdown, Drew Plitt accounted for two scores and Ball State beat short-handed No. 19 San Jose State 34-13 in the Arizona Bowl. San Jose State had to play without its two coordinators and Mountain West Conference player of the year Cade Hall due to COVID-19 and other issues. The Cardinals took advantage, quick-hitting their way down the field on offense after Phillips’ interception for a 27-0 lead in the first quarter. The Mid-American champions bogged down in the second half but had four interceptions to win their first bowl game in 10 tries.

Ball State beats No. 19 San Jose State 34-13 in Arizona Bowl

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — A bowl victory that increased Mississippi State’s win total this season to four and No. 22 Tulsa’s failed attempt to add another unlikely comeback to its impressive collection this season took a back seat to the melee that broke out Thursday shortly after the Armed Forces Bowl ended.

True freshman Will Rogers scored his first rushing touchdown of the season and had a 13-yard TD pass to lead Mississippi State past Tulsa 28-26 in a game that was tense from the start.

Minutes after it ended, the teams became involved in a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1344749618677084165" target="_blank">large brawl</a>&nbsp;on the field, with players punching and kicking one another. Tulsa coach Greg Montgomery said sophomore safety Kendarin Ray, who was helped off the field after being at the bottom of a dogpile during a scrum, was treated for “some sort of concussion.”

“I’m not sure what exactly caused that,” said Mississippi State coach Mike Leach, who referred to the altercation as a “mosh pit.” “It was something before the game, too. We’ve never had any problem with that the entire season, so I can only guess without seeing the film.”

In a video posted from Mississippi State’s locker room, Malik Heath joked about kicking a Tulsa player in the facemask.

“The one thing I’ll say is our program, our guys, we’re a team that are going to stand up for each other and we’re going to battle,” Montgomery said. “We talk about faith, family, football, and family’s going to take care of family. We’re a team that has battled all year long. We battled again today. From that standpoint, our guys are going to continue to protect each other and go from there.”

Jo’quavious Marks scored a rushing touchdown on the game’s first possession and Emmanuel Forbes returned an interception 90 yards for a touchdown for the Bulldogs (4-7), who finished the season with a second straight win in a game played at TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium in cold, rainy conditions.

Mississippi State’s 148 passing yards were its fewest of the season. Marks’ 72 rushing yards and his 28-yard run for the touchdown were the most in each category this season for the Bulldogs, whose 36-yard rushing average going into bowl play was the lowest in the FBS.

Forbes’ third-quarter touchdown was initially called back on an illegal blocking penalty, but the Big Ten Conference officiating crew reversed its ruling to a penalty on Tulsa.

Deneric Prince and Corey Taylor II scored rushing touchdowns, Zach Smith had a 15-yard TD pass to Keylon Stokes and Zack Long kicked field goals of 27 and 33 yards for Tulsa (6-3, No. 24 CFP), which erased four double-digit deficits this season.

Smith was 26 for 46 passing for 347 yards with two interceptions. Tulsa outgained Mississippi State in total offense 484 yards to 271, but the Bulldogs got 138 valuable kickoff return yards from Lideatrick “Tulu” Griffin.

Tulsa pulled to within 21-19 with 12:30 left on Taylor’s 5-yard run, but Smith’s two-point conversion pass intended for Stokes was broken up in the end zone. Mississippi State answered with Rogers’ 13-yard throw to Griffin to go ahead 28-19.

Smith’s 15-yard scoring pass to Stokes came with 1:23 to play, and Tulsa failed to recover the ensuing onside kick. On the play, Mississippi State’s Erroll Thompson leveled Tulsa’s Ryan Nixon and was penalized 15 yards for taunting.

“It’s just dumb,” Leach said. “There was some stuff going back and forth during the course of the game. With any of it on our side, I don’t want to see it because I feel like I got shorted, what, 15 yards, 30 yards on deals where if we could keep our mouth shut, you know.”

During the brawl, Mississippi State’s De’Monte Russell, in street clothes beneath his jersey, ripped the helmet off Tulsa’s TieNeal Martin and appeared to land a punch to Martin’s head.

“Coach Leach addressed us as a team after the game, and we will handle that in-house,” Kobe Jones said. “It was emotional and a mishap. We have to be better and more disciplined.”

Tulsa: A team that was picked to finish ninth in the 11-team American Athletic Conference played in the league championship game, losing to Cincinnati on a last-second field goal. The Golden Hurricane will wait to see if they finish in the final AP Top 25 of the season for the first time since 2010.

Mississippi State: The Bulldogs played in their school-record 11th consecutive bowl thanks to pandemic qualification exemptions. The four wins are the Bulldogs’ fewest since 2008, the last of Sylvester Croom’s five seasons coaching in Starkville.

Tulsa: Among the seniors who have committed to returning in 2021 are running back Shamari Brooks, fifth in program career rushing despite missing all of 2020 with an ACL injury, and free safety TieNeal Martin. Next season, the Golden Hurricane will visit Oklahoma State and Ohio State.

Mississippi State: For all of Leach’s Air Raid offenses at various stops, Rogers was his first true freshman quarterback. The Bulldogs’ Southeastern Conference home schedule should include visits by Alabama and Mississippi.

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — A bowl victory that increased Mississippi State’s win total this season to four and No. 22 Tulsa’s failed attempt to add another unlikely comeback to its impressive collection this season took a back seat to the melee that broke out Thursday shortly after the Armed Forces Bowl ended.True freshman Will Rogers scored his first rushing touchdown of the season and had a 13-yard TD pass to lead Mississippi State past Tulsa 28-26 in a game that was tense from the start.Minutes after it ended, the teams became involved in a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1344749618677084165" target="_blank">large brawl</a>&nbsp;on the field, with players punching and kicking one another. Tulsa coach Greg Montgomery said sophomore safety Kendarin Ray, who was helped off the field after being at the bottom of a dogpile during a scrum, was treated for “some sort of concussion.”“I’m not sure what exactly caused that,” said Mississippi State coach Mike Leach, who referred to the altercation as a “mosh pit.” “It was something before the game, too. We’ve never had any problem with that the entire season, so I can only guess without seeing the film.”In a video posted from Mississippi State’s locker room, Malik Heath joked about kicking a Tulsa player in the facemask.“The one thing I’ll say is our program, our guys, we’re a team that are going to stand up for each other and we’re going to battle,” Montgomery said. “We talk about faith, family, football, and family’s going to take care of family. We’re a team that has battled all year long. We battled again today. From that standpoint, our guys are going to continue to protect each other and go from there.”Jo’quavious Marks scored a rushing touchdown on the game’s first possession and Emmanuel Forbes returned an interception 90 yards for a touchdown for the Bulldogs (4-7), who finished the season with a second straight win in a game played at TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium in cold, rainy conditions.Mississippi State’s 148 passing yards were its fewest of the season. Marks’ 72 rushing yards and his 28-yard run for the touchdown were the most in each category this season for the Bulldogs, whose 36-yard rushing average going into bowl play was the lowest in the FBS.Forbes’ third-quarter touchdown was initially called back on an illegal blocking penalty, but the Big Ten Conference officiating crew reversed its ruling to a penalty on Tulsa.Deneric Prince and Corey Taylor II scored rushing touchdowns, Zach Smith had a 15-yard TD pass to Keylon Stokes and Zack Long kicked field goals of 27 and 33 yards for Tulsa (6-3, No. 24 CFP), which erased four double-digit deficits this season.Smith was 26 for 46 passing for 347 yards with two interceptions. Tulsa outgained Mississippi State in total offense 484 yards to 271, but the Bulldogs got 138 valuable kickoff return yards from Lideatrick “Tulu” Griffin.Tulsa pulled to within 21-19 with 12:30 left on Taylor’s 5-yard run, but Smith’s two-point conversion pass intended for Stokes was broken up in the end zone. Mississippi State answered with Rogers’ 13-yard throw to Griffin to go ahead 28-19.Smith’s 15-yard scoring pass to Stokes came with 1:23 to play, and Tulsa failed to recover the ensuing onside kick. On the play, Mississippi State’s Erroll Thompson leveled Tulsa’s Ryan Nixon and was penalized 15 yards for taunting.“It’s just dumb,” Leach said. “There was some stuff going back and forth during the course of the game. With any of it on our side, I don’t want to see it because I feel like I got shorted, what, 15 yards, 30 yards on deals where if we could keep our mouth shut, you know.”During the brawl, Mississippi State’s De’Monte Russell, in street clothes beneath his jersey, ripped the helmet off Tulsa’s TieNeal Martin and appeared to land a punch to Martin’s head.“Coach Leach addressed us as a team after the game, and we will handle that in-house,” Kobe Jones said. “It was emotional and a mishap. We have to be better and more disciplined.”THE TAKEAWAYTulsa: A team that was picked to finish ninth in the 11-team American Athletic Conference played in the league championship game, losing to Cincinnati on a last-second field goal. The Golden Hurricane will wait to see if they finish in the final AP Top 25 of the season for the first time since 2010.Mississippi State: The Bulldogs played in their school-record 11th consecutive bowl thanks to pandemic qualification exemptions. The four wins are the Bulldogs’ fewest since 2008, the last of Sylvester Croom’s five seasons coaching in Starkville.UP NEXTTulsa: Among the seniors who have committed to returning in 2021 are running back Shamari Brooks, fifth in program career rushing despite missing all of 2020 with an ACL injury, and free safety TieNeal Martin. Next season, the Golden Hurricane will visit Oklahoma State and Ohio State.Mississippi State: For all of Leach’s Air Raid offenses at various stops, Rogers was his first true freshman quarterback. The Bulldogs’ Southeastern Conference home schedule should include visits by Alabama and Mississippi.

Brawl mars Mississippi State’s Armed Forces win over Tulsa

AUDIO: Eagle Radio Sports for Thursday

PASADENA, Calif. (AP) — The College Football Playoff semifinal in Texas will be allowed to call itself the Rose Bowl Game, but Pasadena officials don’t want the New Year’s event relocated in the future.

The Pasadena city council agreed Wednesday to allow the Tournament of Roses to move the game to Arlington, Texas, on New Year’s Day. No. 1 Alabama will play fourth-ranked Notre Dame in the first CFP semifinal at AT&amp;T Stadium outside Dallas.

The Tournament of Roses will pay the city $2 million to help Pasadena with its expenses and lost revenue as a result of the game being relocated.

But Pasadena officials said the game “will not relocate again from Pasadena, unless it is forced to due to a national emergency.”

It’s the first time the game won’t be played in Pasadena since World War II. The Rose Parade was canceled.

The state of California twice rejected requests by the Tournament of Roses to allow limited fans in attendance at the 95,000-seat venue. The coronavirus pandemic has accelerated at an alarming rate in Los Angeles County.

Officials in Texas will allow about 16,000 fans to watch the game.

PASADENA, Calif. (AP) — The College Football Playoff semifinal in Texas will be allowed to call itself the Rose Bowl Game, but Pasadena officials don’t want the New Year’s event relocated in the future.The Pasadena city council agreed Wednesday to allow the Tournament of Roses to move the game to Arlington, Texas, on New Year’s Day. No. 1 Alabama will play fourth-ranked Notre Dame in the first CFP semifinal at AT&amp;T Stadium outside Dallas.The Tournament of Roses will pay the city $2 million to help Pasadena with its expenses and lost revenue as a result of the game being relocated.But Pasadena officials said the game “will not relocate again from Pasadena, unless it is forced to due to a national emergency.”It’s the first time the game won’t be played in Pasadena since World War II. The Rose Parade was canceled.The state of California twice rejected requests by the Tournament of Roses to allow limited fans in attendance at the 95,000-seat venue. The coronavirus pandemic has accelerated at an alarming rate in Los Angeles County.Officials in Texas will allow about 16,000 fans to watch the game.

Pasadena allows Rose Bowl name to be used in Texas

WICHITA, Kan.— Wichita State scored the first 16 points of the game and never looked back in an 81-43 rout of Newman University on Wednesday evening at Charles Koch Arena. <a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5697">Dexter Dennis</a>&nbsp;finished with a season-high 13 points to lead WSU (5-2). His dunk on the game's first play fueled a 16-0 run in the game's first five minutes – best by a Shocker team since Nov. 25, 1991 when they scored the first 18 points in a win over Rider. <a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5700">Isaiah Poor Bear-Chandler</a>&nbsp;added 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting and knocked down 2-of-3 from distance. <a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5705">Clarence Jackson</a>&nbsp;grabbed a team-best eight rebounds to go with seven points. Joel Boyce scored 10 points and cleared nine rebounds for Division II Newman, which treated the game as an exhibition. The Shockers shot a season-high 49.3 percent, helped by seven dunks and 14 more layups. Newman shot 26.9 percent. The Jets came in averaging nearly 10 threes-per-game on just under 40 percent accuracy but hit just 3-of-23 against WSU. WSU made 11 of its first 15 shots to start the game – nine of them on dunks or layups -- for a 27-4 after just eight minutes and coasted into halftime with a 46-18 margin. The Shockers launched another 14-0 run midway through the second half and led by as many as 40 in the final minute. NOTABLE:

UP NEXT: Wichita State heads back out on the road Saturday against Ole Miss (5-2). The 5 p.m. CT tip airs nationally on ESPNU.

WICHITA, Kan.— Wichita State scored the first 16 points of the game and never looked back in an 81-43 rout of Newman University on Wednesday evening at Charles Koch Arena. <a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5697">Dexter Dennis</a>&nbsp;finished with a season-high 13 points to lead WSU (5-2). His dunk on the game's first play fueled a 16-0 run in the game's first five minutes – best by a Shocker team since Nov. 25, 1991 when they scored the first 18 points in a win over Rider. <a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5700">Isaiah Poor Bear-Chandler</a>&nbsp;added 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting and knocked down 2-of-3 from distance. <a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5705">Clarence Jackson</a>&nbsp;grabbed a team-best eight rebounds to go with seven points. Joel Boyce scored 10 points and cleared nine rebounds for Division II Newman, which treated the game as an exhibition. The Shockers shot a season-high 49.3 percent, helped by seven dunks and 14 more layups. Newman shot 26.9 percent. The Jets came in averaging nearly 10 threes-per-game on just under 40 percent accuracy but hit just 3-of-23 against WSU. WSU made 11 of its first 15 shots to start the game – nine of them on dunks or layups -- for a 27-4 after just eight minutes and coasted into halftime with a 46-18 margin. The Shockers launched another 14-0 run midway through the second half and led by as many as 40 in the final minute. NOTABLE:<ul>
 <li>Since 1976 (when the NCAA re-legalized the slam dunk) 5-foot-11&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5710">Trevin Wade</a>&nbsp;is the shortest Shocker to dunk in a regular season game.</li><li>Five different Shockers dunked Wednesday: Dennis (2x),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5710">Trevin Wade</a>&nbsp;(2x),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5701">Morris Udeze</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5706">Chaunce Jenkins</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5702">Trey Wade</a>. That was one shy of the school record, set Dec. 19, 1981, when six different Shockers dunked on Pan American:&nbsp;&nbsp;Greg Dreiling, Antoine Carr, Zarko Durisic, Cliff Levingston, Tony Martin and Xavier McDaniel.</li><li>WSU improved to 3-0 in regular season games against Newman and are now 35-0 against non-Division I opponents since 1973 when the NCAA realigned into three tiers.</li><li>Dennis went 2-of-4 from beyond the arc to move into the top-20 on WSU's all-time triples chart (115), passing P.J. Couisnard (114 from 2004-08).</li><li>WSU committed a season-high 16 turnovers but forced a season-high 19. The Shockers have won the turnover battle in all seven games this year.</li><li>15 Shockers saw action and 12 had field goals, including senior walk-on&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5696">Brycen Bush</a>&nbsp;who finished with three points.</li>
 </ul> UP NEXT: Wichita State heads back out on the road Saturday against Ole Miss (5-2). The 5 p.m. CT tip airs nationally on ESPNU.

Shockers make quick work of Newman

Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Santiago Vescovi scored 15 points and Yves Pons and Jaden Springer added 13 apiece as No. 7 Tennessee routed No. 12 Missouri 73-53 in the Southeastern Conference opener for both teams. The Volunteers shot 50% from the field and 5 of 7 from long range on the way to their seventh straight win. Xavier Pinson led Missouri with 11 points.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Justin Ahrens came off the bench to score 18 points and freshman Zed Key added 14 points on 5-for-5 shooting as No. 25 Ohio State used balanced scoring to beat Nebraska 90-54. Duane Washington Jr. added 13 points and Justice Sueing 12 as Ohio State got points from 10 players and won for the third time in four games. Nebraska was led by Teddy Allen's 13 points.

UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten men's basketball conference has a record nine teams in the latest Associated Press poll. Wisconsin is No. 6, Iowa is No. 10, Rutgers is No. 14, Illinois is No. 15, Michigan is No. 16, Michigan State is No. 17, Northwestern is No. 19, Minnesota is No. 21, and Ohio State is No. 25. Topping the ever-tough league slate this week is the Iowa-Rutgers game. The Hawkeyes are 8-2, having bounced back from a loss at Minnesota by beating Northwestern. Rutgers is 7-1 despite not yet being at full strength due to injuries.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, choosing to risk a bit of rust over the danger of injury with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured. Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne will start at quarterback and Matt Moore will likely be promoted from the practice squad. That means it's nearly certain Patrick Mahomes, who needs just 260 yards passing to reach 5,000 for the season, won't step foot on the field this week.

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — All-America defensive tackle Daviyon Nixon of Iowa announced his decision to declare for the NFL draft and forego his senior season. Nixon made the announcement on social media and the athletic department confirmed his decision. Nixon was named a first-team Associated Press All-American and was AP Big Ten defensive player of the year. He led the Big Ten in tackles for loss, tied for the conference lead in sacks and had the most tackles by a Big Ten defensive lineman.

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Iowa State's Brock Purdy and Oregon's Tyler Shough are heading back to the desert. Two of the most prolific high school quarterbacks in Arizona history will face off in the Fiesta Bowl on Saturday. Purdy and Shough were baseball teammates when they were younger and have the same quarterbacks coach. They still work out together during the offseason. Now they'll square off under the bright lights of a New Year's Six bowl.

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Jr. Clay had 22 points as Tennessee Tech snapped its season-opening nine-game losing streak, topping Southeast Missouri 72-63. Amadou Sylla had 13 points and seven rebounds for Tennessee Tech (1-9, 1-2 Ohio Valley Conference). Damaria Franklin added 11 points and eight rebounds. Tennessee Tech totaled 38 points in the first half, a season high for the team. Eric Reed Jr. had 14 points for the Redhawks (2-6, 0-2), who have now lost five games in a row. Chris Harris added 11 points. DQ Nicholas had eight assists.

Spurs' Hammon makes history...Heat rebound to beat Bucks

UNDATED (AP) — What a difference a day made for the Miami Heat, but the day was highlighted by a trailblazing coach.

Becky Hammon made history by becoming the first woman to serve as head coach in an NBA game.

Hammon took over when Gregg Popovich was ejected in the second quarter of the Spurs' 121-107 loss to the Lakers. As he exited the court, Popovich pointed a finger at Hammon and had a succinct message for his assistant coach: "You got 'em."

Lakers forward LeBron James spoiled the historic moment by delivering 26 points, eight assists and five rebounds on his 36th birthday.

In Miami, Goran Dragic (DRAH'-gihch) scored 26 points off the bench and the Heat bounced back from Tuesday's 47-point loss to Milwaukee by downing the Bucks, 119-108.

Tyler Herro delivered 21 points and grabbed a career-best 15 rebounds for Miami, which trailed by 14 early in the second half and rallied to get a split of the two-game, two-night series.

The Bucks led 84-73 early in the third quarter before the Heat dominated the rest of the way. Milwaukee hit 16 3-pointers just a night after torching Miami for an NBA-record 29. 

The Bucks wasted a triple-double by Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH'-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON'-poh), who finished with 26 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists.

— Jaylen Brown poured in 18 of his career-high 42 points in the second quarter of the Celtics' 126-107 rout of the Grizzlies. Jayson Tatum scored 16 points and Brown matched a career best with seven 3-pointers on 10 attempts.

— Kevin Durant dropped in 33 points to lead seven Nets in double-figures in a 145-141 downing of the Hawks. Kyrie Irving finished with 27 points and Joe Harris added 23 as Brooklyn handed Atlanta its first loss of the season.

— Kawhi (kah-WY') Leonard scored 28 points in his return from a two-game injury absence, guiding the Clippers to a 128-105 rout of the Trail Blazers. Paul George added 23 points to the Clippers' second straight lopsided victory.

— LaMelo Ball scored 22 points and Miles Bridges had 20 with 16 rebounds in the Hornets' 118-99 blowout over the Mavericks. Terry Rozier provided 18 points, including a pair of 3-pointers early in a 14-0 run that gave Charlotte a 25-point lead in the second half. 

UNDATED (AP) — The Cleveland Browns' number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow as they prepare for a huge game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Browns have added a player and an assistant coach to the COVID-19 list, though the team declined to identify them.

The team closed its facility for a few hours on Wednesday after being informed of the test results and held virtual meetings. 

The Browns already had nine players on the list, including their top four wide receivers. Those players and some others are eligible to return Thursday as long as they test negative.

Cleveland will make the playoffs for the first time since 2002 if they beat the Steelers, who will rest starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

The NFL is monitoring the Browns' situation to determine whether the game needs to be moved. And the NFL's chief medical officer, Dr. Allen Sills, said the league is investigating the rise in cases within the Browns.

— The 49ers have signed Robbie Gould to a renegotiated contract that keeps him on the team through 2022. Gould also was placed on the COVID-19 list Wednesday and will miss the season finale against Seattle.

— The Packers have claimed veteran defensive tackle Damon "Snacks" Harrison off waivers from the Seahawks, two days after he was released by Seattle. Harrison played six games with the Seahawks this season but was inactive for last Sunday's win over the Rams.

— The Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Chargers on Sunday with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured. Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne (HEN'-ee) will start at quarterback.

— Colts coach Frank Reich says left tackle Anthony Castonzo will have season-ending surgery on his right ankle. Reich did not say who would take Castonzo's spot in the starting lineup Sunday against Jacksonville. 

— Jaguars coach Doug Marron says they will be without starting quarterback Gardner Minshew and running back James Robinson for their season finale. Mike Glennon will be under center when Jacksonville tries to break a team-record, 14-game losing streak Sunday against the Colts.

— Rookie running back La'Mical Perine is the first Jet to test positive for the coronavirus. Coach Adam Gase said Wednesday the team is conducting contact tracing among the other players and team staff. 

UNDATED (AP) — Baylor won its final tuneup before resuming its Big 12 men's basketball schedule.

The second-ranked Bears used a balanced attack to hammer Alcorn State, 105-76 and improve to 8-0.

Macio Teague (MAY'-see-oh teeg) led six Bears in double figures with 18 points, while Jared Butler added 17 on 6 of 8 shooting. Baylor also received 47 points from its bench, with Jordan Turner and Zach Loveday each scoring 10.

The game was tied at 12 before the Bears went on a 17-2 run in less than five minutes. Baylor also scored 26 first-half points on 14 Alcorn State turnovers.

— Santiago Vescovi (vehs-KOH'-vee) scored 15 points and Yves Pons (panz) and Jaden Springer each added 13 as seventh-ranked Tennessee clobbered No. 12 Missouri, 73-53 in the Southeastern Conference opener for both teams. The 7-0 Volunteers shot 50% from the field and were selective with their attempts, going 5 of 7 from beyond the arc. 

— No. 23 Virginia earned a 66-57 win against Notre Dame as Kihei (KEE'-hay) Clark had 19 points and five assists. Jay Huff scored 15 points and Sam Hauser added 13 with 10 rebounds for the Cavaliers.

— Justin Ahrens came off the bench to shoot 6-for-9 from 3-point range and finish with 18 points in No. 25 Ohio State's 90-54 thumping of Nebraska. Freshman Zed Key added 14 points on 5-for-5 shooting, and Duane Washington Jr. chipped in 13 points in the Buckeyes' third win in four games.

UNDATED (AP) — Oklahoma continues to have success on the Dallas Cowboys' home field.

The eighth-ranked Sooners captured the Cotton Bowl with a convincing 55-20 pounding of Florida.

Spencer Rattler threw for three touchdowns and ran for another score, 11 days after helping the Sooners win the Big 12 title in the same stadium. Oklahoma racked up 684 total yards, with Rhamondre Stevenson rushing for 186.

Florida's first possession ended with Tre Norwood's 45-yard interception return for a touchdown. That was the first of three picks thrown by Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Kyle Trask in the first quarter, after only five all season.

Meanwhile, Wisconsin won its bowl game by rallying against Wake Forest.

Graham Mertz accounted for three touchdowns and the Badgers turned four second-half interceptions into 21 points to beat the Demon Deacons, 42-28 in the Duke's Mayo Bowl. Mertz threw for 130 yards and ran for two short touchdowns as Wisconsin finished the season on a high note. 

Wake Forest quarterback Sam Hartman was intercepted on four straight possessions, the first of which set up the go-ahead TD.

Coastal Carolina's Jamey Chadwell is AP coach of the year

UNDATED (AP) — Coastal Carolina's Jamey Chadwell is The Associated Press college football coach of the year.

The ninth-ranked Chanticleers went 11-1 this year, winning 11 straight before losing to Liberty in overtime at the Cure Bowl. 

Chadwell received 16 first-place votes and 88 points from the AP Top 25 panel. Indiana's Tom Allen finished second and Cincinnati's Luke Fickell was third. 

Chadwell is the first Sun Belt Conference coach to win the AP award, which was established in 1988. 

— Southern California safety Talanoa Hufanga is headed to the NFL after a standout junior season. Hufanga was a first-team AP All-American and the Pac-12's Defensive Player of the Year this season for the No. 21 Trojans. He led USC with 62 tackles and four interceptions while adding three sacks, 5 1/2 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. 

— Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott will be unavailable for the Sugar Bowl against Ohio State due to coronavirus issues. The school said Wednesday that Elliott won't travel with the team to New Orleans while he's in COVID-19 protocols. It did not say if he had tested positive. Elliott's offense led the Atlantic Coast Conference in scoring and passing yards this season. 

UNDATED (AP) — Longtime Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara (zuh-DAY'-noh CHAH'-rah) has signed with the Washington Capitals in a stunning move less than a week before most NHL teams open training camp.

Chara agreed to terms on a one-year contract worth $795,000. The 43-year-old defenseman posted on Instagram that the Bruins have decided to move forward with younger players. 

The 6-foot-9 Chara is a seven-time All-Star who won the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman in 2009. He led the Bruins to the Cup in 2011 and trips to the final in 2013 and 2019.

— The Coyotes have signed veteran forward Derick Brassard to a one-year contract. The 33-year-old Brassard had 10 goals and 22 assists in 66 games with the Islanders last season. 

UNDATED (AP) — The Chicago White Sox and outfielder Adam Engel have avoided salary arbitration by working out a one-year, $1.375 million contract.

The 29-year-old Engel hit .295 with three homers and 12 RBIs last season. 

Querrey handed suspended fine for COVID-19 violation

LONDON (AP) — American tennis player Sam Querrey was handed a suspended $20,000 fine by the ATP tour on Wednesday for breaching coronavirus protocols at the St. Petersburg Open in October. 

However, the fine will be lifted if the 33-year-old Querrey doesn't commit any further violations of health and safety protocols related to COVID-19 during a six-month probationary period. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) — Belmont Stakes winner Tiz the Law has been suddenly retired on the advice of a veterinarian after an X-ray revealed bone bruising in the colt's front leg.

Tiz the Law had six wins in nine career starts and earnings of $2,735,300, according to Equibase. He retired on the same day his trainer, Barclay Tagg, turned 83. 

<h2>Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press</h2>COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Santiago Vescovi scored 15 points and Yves Pons and Jaden Springer added 13 apiece as No. 7 Tennessee routed No. 12 Missouri 73-53 in the Southeastern Conference opener for both teams. The Volunteers shot 50% from the field and 5 of 7 from long range on the way to their seventh straight win. Xavier Pinson led Missouri with 11 points.COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Justin Ahrens came off the bench to score 18 points and freshman Zed Key added 14 points on 5-for-5 shooting as No. 25 Ohio State used balanced scoring to beat Nebraska 90-54. Duane Washington Jr. added 13 points and Justice Sueing 12 as Ohio State got points from 10 players and won for the third time in four games. Nebraska was led by Teddy Allen's 13 points.UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten men's basketball conference has a record nine teams in the latest Associated Press poll. Wisconsin is No. 6, Iowa is No. 10, Rutgers is No. 14, Illinois is No. 15, Michigan is No. 16, Michigan State is No. 17, Northwestern is No. 19, Minnesota is No. 21, and Ohio State is No. 25. Topping the ever-tough league slate this week is the Iowa-Rutgers game. The Hawkeyes are 8-2, having bounced back from a loss at Minnesota by beating Northwestern. Rutgers is 7-1 despite not yet being at full strength due to injuries.KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, choosing to risk a bit of rust over the danger of injury with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured. Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne will start at quarterback and Matt Moore will likely be promoted from the practice squad. That means it's nearly certain Patrick Mahomes, who needs just 260 yards passing to reach 5,000 for the season, won't step foot on the field this week.IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — All-America defensive tackle Daviyon Nixon of Iowa announced his decision to declare for the NFL draft and forego his senior season. Nixon made the announcement on social media and the athletic department confirmed his decision. Nixon was named a first-team Associated Press All-American and was AP Big Ten defensive player of the year. He led the Big Ten in tackles for loss, tied for the conference lead in sacks and had the most tackles by a Big Ten defensive lineman.GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Iowa State's Brock Purdy and Oregon's Tyler Shough are heading back to the desert. Two of the most prolific high school quarterbacks in Arizona history will face off in the Fiesta Bowl on Saturday. Purdy and Shough were baseball teammates when they were younger and have the same quarterbacks coach. They still work out together during the offseason. Now they'll square off under the bright lights of a New Year's Six bowl.COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Jr. Clay had 22 points as Tennessee Tech snapped its season-opening nine-game losing streak, topping Southeast Missouri 72-63. Amadou Sylla had 13 points and seven rebounds for Tennessee Tech (1-9, 1-2 Ohio Valley Conference). Damaria Franklin added 11 points and eight rebounds. Tennessee Tech totaled 38 points in the first half, a season high for the team. Eric Reed Jr. had 14 points for the Redhawks (2-6, 0-2), who have now lost five games in a row. Chris Harris added 11 points. DQ Nicholas had eight assists.<h2>Update on the latest sports</h2>NBA-SCHEDULESpurs' Hammon makes history...Heat rebound to beat BucksUNDATED (AP) — What a difference a day made for the Miami Heat, but the day was highlighted by a trailblazing coach.Becky Hammon made history by becoming the first woman to serve as head coach in an NBA game.Hammon took over when Gregg Popovich was ejected in the second quarter of the Spurs' 121-107 loss to the Lakers. As he exited the court, Popovich pointed a finger at Hammon and had a succinct message for his assistant coach: "You got 'em."Lakers forward LeBron James spoiled the historic moment by delivering 26 points, eight assists and five rebounds on his 36th birthday.In Miami, Goran Dragic (DRAH'-gihch) scored 26 points off the bench and the Heat bounced back from Tuesday's 47-point loss to Milwaukee by downing the Bucks, 119-108.Tyler Herro delivered 21 points and grabbed a career-best 15 rebounds for Miami, which trailed by 14 early in the second half and rallied to get a split of the two-game, two-night series.The Bucks led 84-73 early in the third quarter before the Heat dominated the rest of the way. Milwaukee hit 16 3-pointers just a night after torching Miami for an NBA-record 29. The Bucks wasted a triple-double by Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH'-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON'-poh), who finished with 26 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists.Also on the NBA schedule:— Jaylen Brown poured in 18 of his career-high 42 points in the second quarter of the Celtics' 126-107 rout of the Grizzlies. Jayson Tatum scored 16 points and Brown matched a career best with seven 3-pointers on 10 attempts.— Kevin Durant dropped in 33 points to lead seven Nets in double-figures in a 145-141 downing of the Hawks. Kyrie Irving finished with 27 points and Joe Harris added 23 as Brooklyn handed Atlanta its first loss of the season.— Kawhi (kah-WY') Leonard scored 28 points in his return from a two-game injury absence, guiding the Clippers to a 128-105 rout of the Trail Blazers. Paul George added 23 points to the Clippers' second straight lopsided victory.— LaMelo Ball scored 22 points and Miles Bridges had 20 with 16 rebounds in the Hornets' 118-99 blowout over the Mavericks. Terry Rozier provided 18 points, including a pair of 3-pointers early in a 14-0 run that gave Charlotte a 25-point lead in the second half. NFL-NEWSBrowns' COVID-19 list growsUNDATED (AP) — The Cleveland Browns' number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow as they prepare for a huge game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.The Browns have added a player and an assistant coach to the COVID-19 list, though the team declined to identify them.The team closed its facility for a few hours on Wednesday after being informed of the test results and held virtual meetings. The Browns already had nine players on the list, including their top four wide receivers. Those players and some others are eligible to return Thursday as long as they test negative.Cleveland will make the playoffs for the first time since 2002 if they beat the Steelers, who will rest starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.The NFL is monitoring the Browns' situation to determine whether the game needs to be moved. And the NFL's chief medical officer, Dr. Allen Sills, said the league is investigating the rise in cases within the Browns.In other NFL news:— The 49ers have signed Robbie Gould to a renegotiated contract that keeps him on the team through 2022. Gould also was placed on the COVID-19 list Wednesday and will miss the season finale against Seattle.— The Packers have claimed veteran defensive tackle Damon "Snacks" Harrison off waivers from the Seahawks, two days after he was released by Seattle. Harrison played six games with the Seahawks this season but was inactive for last Sunday's win over the Rams.— The Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Chargers on Sunday with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured. Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne (HEN'-ee) will start at quarterback.— Colts coach Frank Reich says left tackle Anthony Castonzo will have season-ending surgery on his right ankle. Reich did not say who would take Castonzo's spot in the starting lineup Sunday against Jacksonville. — Jaguars coach Doug Marron says they will be without starting quarterback Gardner Minshew and running back James Robinson for their season finale. Mike Glennon will be under center when Jacksonville tries to break a team-record, 14-game losing streak Sunday against the Colts.— Rookie running back La'Mical Perine is the first Jet to test positive for the coronavirus. Coach Adam Gase said Wednesday the team is conducting contact tracing among the other players and team staff. T25 MEN'S BASKETBALL-SCHEDULEBaylor still perfectUNDATED (AP) — Baylor won its final tuneup before resuming its Big 12 men's basketball schedule.The second-ranked Bears used a balanced attack to hammer Alcorn State, 105-76 and improve to 8-0.Macio Teague (MAY'-see-oh teeg) led six Bears in double figures with 18 points, while Jared Butler added 17 on 6 of 8 shooting. Baylor also received 47 points from its bench, with Jordan Turner and Zach Loveday each scoring 10.The game was tied at 12 before the Bears went on a 17-2 run in less than five minutes. Baylor also scored 26 first-half points on 14 Alcorn State turnovers.In other top-25 action:— Santiago Vescovi (vehs-KOH'-vee) scored 15 points and Yves Pons (panz) and Jaden Springer each added 13 as seventh-ranked Tennessee clobbered No. 12 Missouri, 73-53 in the Southeastern Conference opener for both teams. The 7-0 Volunteers shot 50% from the field and were selective with their attempts, going 5 of 7 from beyond the arc. — No. 23 Virginia earned a 66-57 win against Notre Dame as Kihei (KEE'-hay) Clark had 19 points and five assists. Jay Huff scored 15 points and Sam Hauser added 13 with 10 rebounds for the Cavaliers.— Justin Ahrens came off the bench to shoot 6-for-9 from 3-point range and finish with 18 points in No. 25 Ohio State's 90-54 thumping of Nebraska. Freshman Zed Key added 14 points on 5-for-5 shooting, and Duane Washington Jr. chipped in 13 points in the Buckeyes' third win in four games.COLLEGE FOOTBALL-SCHEDULESooners, Badgers get bowl winsUNDATED (AP) — Oklahoma continues to have success on the Dallas Cowboys' home field.The eighth-ranked Sooners captured the Cotton Bowl with a convincing 55-20 pounding of Florida.Spencer Rattler threw for three touchdowns and ran for another score, 11 days after helping the Sooners win the Big 12 title in the same stadium. Oklahoma racked up 684 total yards, with Rhamondre Stevenson rushing for 186.Florida's first possession ended with Tre Norwood's 45-yard interception return for a touchdown. That was the first of three picks thrown by Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Kyle Trask in the first quarter, after only five all season.Meanwhile, Wisconsin won its bowl game by rallying against Wake Forest.Graham Mertz accounted for three touchdowns and the Badgers turned four second-half interceptions into 21 points to beat the Demon Deacons, 42-28 in the Duke's Mayo Bowl. Mertz threw for 130 yards and ran for two short touchdowns as Wisconsin finished the season on a high note. Wake Forest quarterback Sam Hartman was intercepted on four straight possessions, the first of which set up the go-ahead TD.COLLEGE FOOTBALL-NEWSCoastal Carolina's Jamey Chadwell is AP coach of the yearUNDATED (AP) — Coastal Carolina's Jamey Chadwell is The Associated Press college football coach of the year.The ninth-ranked Chanticleers went 11-1 this year, winning 11 straight before losing to Liberty in overtime at the Cure Bowl. Chadwell received 16 first-place votes and 88 points from the AP Top 25 panel. Indiana's Tom Allen finished second and Cincinnati's Luke Fickell was third. Chadwell is the first Sun Belt Conference coach to win the AP award, which was established in 1988. In other college football news:— Southern California safety Talanoa Hufanga is headed to the NFL after a standout junior season. Hufanga was a first-team AP All-American and the Pac-12's Defensive Player of the Year this season for the No. 21 Trojans. He led USC with 62 tackles and four interceptions while adding three sacks, 5 1/2 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. — Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott will be unavailable for the Sugar Bowl against Ohio State due to coronavirus issues. The school said Wednesday that Elliott won't travel with the team to New Orleans while he's in COVID-19 protocols. It did not say if he had tested positive. Elliott's offense led the Atlantic Coast Conference in scoring and passing yards this season. NHL-NEWSCaps ink CharaUNDATED (AP) — Longtime Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara (zuh-DAY'-noh CHAH'-rah) has signed with the Washington Capitals in a stunning move less than a week before most NHL teams open training camp.Chara agreed to terms on a one-year contract worth $795,000. The 43-year-old defenseman posted on Instagram that the Bruins have decided to move forward with younger players. The 6-foot-9 Chara is a seven-time All-Star who won the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman in 2009. He led the Bruins to the Cup in 2011 and trips to the final in 2013 and 2019.Also around the NHL:— The Coyotes have signed veteran forward Derick Brassard to a one-year contract. The 33-year-old Brassard had 10 goals and 22 assists in 66 games with the Islanders last season. MLB-NEWSWhite Sox, Engel avoid arbitrationUNDATED (AP) — The Chicago White Sox and outfielder Adam Engel have avoided salary arbitration by working out a one-year, $1.375 million contract.The 29-year-old Engel hit .295 with three homers and 12 RBIs last season. ATP-QUERREY-INVESTIGATIONQuerrey handed suspended fine for COVID-19 violationLONDON (AP) — American tennis player Sam Querrey was handed a suspended $20,000 fine by the ATP tour on Wednesday for breaching coronavirus protocols at the St. Petersburg Open in October. However, the fine will be lifted if the 33-year-old Querrey doesn't commit any further violations of health and safety protocols related to COVID-19 during a six-month probationary period. HORSE RACING-TIZ THE LAWBelmont winner is retiredSARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) — Belmont Stakes winner Tiz the Law has been suddenly retired on the advice of a veterinarian after an X-ray revealed bone bruising in the colt's front leg.Tiz the Law had six wins in nine career starts and earnings of $2,735,300, according to Equibase. He retired on the same day his trainer, Barclay Tagg, turned 83.

Sports Headlines for Thursday

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Becky Hammon became the first woman to coach an NBA team, taking over the San Antonio Spurs after coach Gregg Popovich was ejected in a 121-107 loss to LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night.  James celebrated his 36th birthday with 26 points, eight assists and five rebounds in the Lakers’ third double-digit victory. The teams will compete the two-game set Friday night. Popovich was ejected by official Tony Brown with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter. Popovich screamed at Brown and entered the court following a non-call on DeMar DeRozan’s attempted layup and a subsequent attempted rebound by Drew Eubanks. Popovich was applauded as he exited the court by several of the team’s family members in attendance.

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Becky Hammon became the first woman to coach an NBA team, taking over the San Antonio Spurs after coach Gregg Popovich was ejected in a 121-107 loss to LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night. James celebrated his 36th birthday with 26 points, eight assists and five rebounds in the Lakers’ third double-digit victory. The teams will compete the two-game set Friday night. Popovich was ejected by official Tony Brown with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter. Popovich screamed at Brown and entered the court following a non-call on DeMar DeRozan’s attempted layup and a subsequent attempted rebound by Drew Eubanks. Popovich was applauded as he exited the court by several of the team’s family members in attendance.

Hammon first woman to coach NBA team; Lakers beat Spurs

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Spencer Rattler accounted for four touchdowns and No. 8 Oklahoma beat 10th-ranked SEC runner-up Florida 55-20 in the Cotton Bowl. The Sooners finished 9-2, winning their last eight. The last two were at the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, where 11 days earlier they won their sixth consecutive Big 12 title. Rattler threw three touchdown passes and ran for a score. Rhamondre Stevenson rushed for 186 yards and a touchdown. Florida's Kyle Trask threw three interceptions in the first quarter, after the Heisman Trophy finalist had only five all season. Florida finished 8-4.

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Spencer Rattler accounted for four touchdowns and No. 8 Oklahoma beat 10th-ranked SEC runner-up Florida 55-20 in the Cotton Bowl. The Sooners finished 9-2, winning their last eight. The last two were at the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, where 11 days earlier they won their sixth consecutive Big 12 title. Rattler threw three touchdown passes and ran for a score. Rhamondre Stevenson rushed for 186 yards and a touchdown. Florida's Kyle Trask threw three interceptions in the first quarter, after the Heisman Trophy finalist had only five all season. Florida finished 8-4.

Gators rattled: No. 8 Oklahoma routs Florida in Cotton Bowl

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

		St. John's	at	(4)Villanova	1 p.m.	(Postponed)

		(21)Minnesota	at	(6)Wisconsin	4:30 p.m.	

AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Boston	126	Memphis	107	Final	Brooklyn	145	Atlanta	141	Final	Miami	119	Milwaukee	108	Final	L.A. Lakers	121	San Antonio	107	Final	Charlotte	118	Dallas	99	Final	L.A. Clippers	128	Portland	105	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALL		(17)Iowa	at	Missouri	4 p.m.	(Canceled)Final	(8)Oklahoma	55	(10)Florida	20	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		St. John's	at	(4)Villanova	1 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	(2)Baylor	105	Alcorn St.	76	Final	(7)Tennessee	73	(12)Missouri	53	Final	(23)Virginia	66	Notre Dame	57	Final	(25)Ohio St.	90	Nebraska	54	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Cleveland	at	Indiana	3 p.m.			Chicago	at	Washington	5 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	Orlando	6:30 p.m.			Sacramento	at	Houston	7 p.m.			New York	at	Toronto	7:30 p.m.			New Orleans	at	Oklahoma City	8 p.m.			Phoenix	at	Utah	9 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALL		Ball St.	at	(19)San Jose St.	2 p.m.			(22)Tulsa	at	Mississippi St.	12 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		(21)Minnesota	at	(6)Wisconsin	4:30 p.m.			(16)Michigan	at	Maryland	8 p.m.			California	at	(21)Oregon	10 p.m.	___

Sports Scores from Wednesday

MANHATTAN, Kansas –&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics, in conjunction with university and county medical officials, has announced it has paused all women's basketball activities following the most recent COVID-19 test results and contact tracing procedures.

As a result, K-State's upcoming games at Oklahoma on Saturday, January 2, and the home game on Tuesday, January 5, against West Virginia, have been postponed. The Big 12 Conference will work with the three programs to reschedule the games for later in the season.

MANHATTAN, Kansas –&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics, in conjunction with university and county medical officials, has announced it has paused all women's basketball activities following the most recent COVID-19 test results and contact tracing procedures.As a result, K-State's upcoming games at Oklahoma on Saturday, January 2, and the home game on Tuesday, January 5, against West Virginia, have been postponed. The Big 12 Conference will work with the three programs to reschedule the games for later in the season.

 K-State pauses all Women's Basketball activities

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, choosing to risk a bit of rust over the danger of injury with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne will start at quarterback and Matt Moore will likely be promoted from the practice squad.

That means it’s nearly certain Patrick Mahomes, who needs just 260 yards passing to reach 5,000 for the season, won't step foot on the field this week.

The Chiefs have their regular season finale against Los Angeles at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, Jan. 2. Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. central.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs plan to rest the majority of their starters against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, choosing to risk a bit of rust over the danger of injury with the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye already secured.Chiefs coach Andy Reid declined to say which starters would sit, though he did indicate veteran Chad Henne will start at quarterback and Matt Moore will likely be promoted from the practice squad.That means it’s nearly certain Patrick Mahomes, who needs just 260 yards passing to reach 5,000 for the season, won't step foot on the field this week.The Chiefs have their regular season finale against Los Angeles at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, Jan. 2. Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. central.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Chad Henne will get the start this weekend against the Chargers. <a href="https://t.co/zpjCFMVzzc">pic.twitter.com/zpjCFMVzzc</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1344363046697902080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Chiefs to sit Mahomes, other starters Sunday against Chargers

AUDIO: Eagle Radio Sports for Wednesday

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Jordan Bohannon scored 24 points, CJ Fredrick added 19 and Luka Garza finished with 18 as No. 10 Iowa defeated No. 19 Northwestern 87-72. The Hawkeyes won their eighth consecutive home game against a ranked opponent. Pete Nance led Northwestern with a career-high 21 points, including 17 in the first half. Chase Audige had 14 points, Miller Kopp added 11, and Ryan Young 10.

NEW YORK (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs maintain the top spot in the AP Pro32 poll. The Green Bay Packers and Buffalo Bills switched places again. The Packers moved up to No. 2 after routing Tennessee on Sunday night and the Bills slipped to No. 3 despite pounding New England on Monday night. The New Orleans Saints stayed at No. 4 after Alvin Kamara's six-touchdown performance while the NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks rounded out the top five.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have a delicious decision ahead of them this week: Do they play their starters in their regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Chargers, keeping them sharp for the postseason, or do they give them an extra week of rest after clinching the AFC's No. 1 seed on Sunday. The answer isn't quite as clear as it may seem. They also have a first-round playoff bye, which means anyone sitting will have two weeks without a game and could be ripe for rust.

UNDATED (AP) — It's hard to determine who has been more dominant in men's college basketball: Gonzaga or the Big Ten Conference. The Bulldogs remain the clear-cut No. 1, earning 62 of 64 first-place votes after their latest win over a Top 25 foe. Gonzaga blitzed then-No. 16 Virginia 98-75 on Saturday for the most lopsided win over a ranked team in the Mark Few era to give the Bulldogs a poll-record fourth win over a Top 25 team in the first seven games of a season. Baylor and Kansas stayed second and third. Villanova and Houston each moved up a spot after Iowa's overtime loss to Minnesota. Meanwhile, sixth-ranked Wisconsin leads a pack of nine ranked teams from the Big Ten. Iowa tumbled four spots to 10th.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Demarcus Robinson with just under two minutes. Then the Kansas City Chiefs watched as Pro Bowl kicker Younghoe Koo missed the tying field-goal try with 9 seconds left to give them a 17-14 win over the Atlanta Falcons and the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs. The Chiefs (14-1) won their NFL-record seventh straight one-possession game and matched a franchise record with their 10th straight win. The Falcons (4-11) lost by six points or fewer for the seventh time this season.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Selton Miguel made a game-winning 3-pointer with 9.6 seconds left as Kansas State held off Omaha for a 60-58 victory. Sam'i Roe missed a 3-pointer for Omaha (2-8) to end it. Miguel finished with 11 points with three 3s on 3-of-14 shooting from the field. &nbsp;Mike McGuirl had 13 points and six assists to lead Kansas State (5-5), which has won four of its last five. Ayo Akinwole had 19 points and Roe added 12, and the pair made three 3-pointers apiece for Omaha. Akinwole's two free throws gave the Mavericks a 58-57 lead with 17 seconds remaining.&nbsp;

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa (AP) — Austin Phyfe had 21 points as Northern Iowa beat Missouri State 85-75. Gaige Prim led the Bears with 20 points and nine rebounds.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The one thing the Atlanta Falcons could count on all season was Younghoe Koo, their Pro Bowl kicker who had made 27 consecutive field-goal attempts. So when he sliced a 39-yard attempt wide right Sunday that would have sent their game against the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to overtime — well, that's pretty much how the season has gone for a team that was instead left to dwell on its seventh loss in a one-possession game.

UNDATED (AP) — The Miami Heat knocked out the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eastern Conference semifinals this year before advancing to the NBA Finals. The Bucks gained a modicum of revenge with a 3-point barrage in a 144-97 pounding of the Heat.

The Bucks set an NBA record by nailing 29 3-pointers, breaking the old mark midway through the fourth quarter. They shot 29 for 51 from beyond the arc, two nights after going 7 for 38 in a loss to New York.

Khris Middleton had four 3's on his way to 25 points. Jrue Holiday made six 3's in his 24-point night, and Donte DiVincenzo was 5-for-6 from deep to finish with 17 points.

One of the few things the Heat did well was holding Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH'-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON'-poh) to nine points.

Tyler Herro (HEE'-roh) had 23 points for Miami.

— The Celtics erased a 17-point, second-half deficit as Jayson Tatum provided 14 of his 27 points during a fourth-quarter run in a 116-111 triumph over the Pacers. Jaylen Brown added 20 points for Boston, which outscored Indiana, 33-18 in the final period. 

— The 76ers earned a 100-93 victory over the winless Raptors as Joel Embiid (joh-EHL' ehm-BEED') furnished 29 points and 16 rebounds. Embiid suffered an apparent leg injury in the third quarter, but he returned a few minutes later with Philadelphia down by 11.

— Stephen Curry dropped in 31 points and Andrew Wiggins had 27 in the Warriors' 116-106 decision over the winless Pistons. The injury-plagued Warriors have won two in a row after dropping their first two games by a combined 65 points.

— The Magic are 4-0 for the first time in team history after Nikola Vucevic (nih-KOH'-lah voo-SEH'-vihch) had a season-high 28 points and 10 rebounds in a 118-107 downing of the Thunder. Dwayne Bacon went 9 of 10 from the field and scored 18 points to go with eight rebounds for Orlando.

— Julius Randle recorded his first triple-double in two years by collecting 28 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists in the Knicks' 95-86 victory over the Cavaliers. Randle scored 18 in the first half as New York built a 16-point lead before completing its second straight win since an 0-2 start.

— Zach LaVine (lah-VEEN') scored 23 points, including nine straight in the third quarter of the Bulls' first win of the season, 115-107 at Washington. The Wizards fell to 0-4 despite Russell Westbrook, who had 21 points, 15 boards and 11 assists in his third straight triple-double.

UNDATED (AP) — Second-ranked Baylor continued its Big 12 preparations with another easy home win.

MaCio Teague (MAY'-see-oh teeg) scored a team-high 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting as the Bears blew out Central Arkansas, 93-56 to improve to 7-0. 

Davion Mitchell chipped in six points, grabbed six rebounds and led the Baylor passing game with 12 assists.

The Bears erupted for 53 points in the first half and outscored the Bears, 40-21 the rest of the way.

Tulsa provided the day's biggest surprise in top-25 action.

Brandon Rachal capped his 22-point night by draining two free throws with 0.1 seconds remaining to send the Hurricanes past fifth-ranked Houston, 65-64. After Houston's Caleb Mills made a 7-foot floater with six seconds left, Rachal took a pass, drove the length of the court and was fouled by center Brison Gresham at the rim.

Elsewhere on Tuesday's top-25 men's basketball schedule:

— Gonzaga ran the nation's longest home winning streak to 43 games as Corey Kispert scored 25 points to lead the top-ranked Bulldogs to a 112-67 dismantling of Dixie State. Joel Ayayi (joh-EHL ah-YAH'-ee) added 21 points and 11 rebounds for the 9-0 Zags.

— Derek Culver scored 18 points and ninth-ranked West Virginia used its size advantage to overpower Northeastern, 73-51. Oscar Tshiebwe (SHEEB'-way) had 12 points and 15 rebounds for the 8-2 Mountaineers, who had a 45-34 rebounding advantage and forced 19 turnovers.

— Jordan Bohannon shot 6-for-9 from 3-point range while scoring 24 points to send 10th-ranked Iowa to an 87-72 decision over No. 19 Northwestern. CJ Fredrick added 19 and Luka Garza finished with 18 in the Hawkeyes' eighth consecutive home win against a ranked opponents.

— Kevin McCullar scored 11 points in his injury-delayed season debut and No. 13 Texas Tech warmed up for the rest of its Big 12 schedule by thumping Incarnate Word, 79-51. Marcus Santos-Silva also had 11 points for the 8-2 Red Raiders, who got a brief holiday break after a two-point win at Oklahoma.

— No. 14 Rutgers was an 81-76 winner against Purdue as Montez Mathis contributed 16 of his career-high 25 points in the second half. Geo Baker had 19 points six rebounds and four assists for the Scarlet Knights, who played without leading scorer Ron Harper Jr. because of an ankle injury.

— Nick Honor delivered all his 13 points in the second half, including the go-ahead 3-pointer, as Clemson rallied past No. 18 Florida State, 77-67. Clyde Trapp scored 15 points and Al-Amir Dawes added 11 for the Tigers.

— Keve Aluma scored a career-high 26 points and No. 24 Virginia Tech made crucial free throws in the final minute to hold off Miami, 80-78. Justyn Mutts added 15 points for the Hokies, who made three free throws in the final 37 seconds after blowing most of a 17-point lead.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL-ARIZONA-POSTSEASON BAN

Arizona men's basketball self-imposes 1-year postseason ban

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The Arizona men's basketball program has self-imposed a one-year postseason ban related to its long-running NCAA rules infractions case.

The NCAA issued a Notice of Allegations in October accusing the Wildcats of nine counts of misconduct, including five Level I violations. The violations include a lack of institutional control and failure to monitor by the university, and lack of head coach control by basketball coach Sean Miller.

Arizona is 7-1 this season, including a 1-1 mark in the Pac-12 Conference. 

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Oklahoma State has ended its season with a bowl game victory.

The Cowboys won the Cheez-It Bowl by build a three-touchdown lead before downing No. 18 Miami, 37-34.

The Cowboys scored on their first three possessions while jumping out to a 21-0 lead. Brennan Presley caught three of Sanders' TD passes, finishing with six receptions for 118 yards after entering the game with just one catch all season.

Hurricanes starting quarterback D'Erik King threw a 10-yard TD pass but had to leave the game late in the first half with a right knee injury. 

Backup quarterback N'Kosi (nuh-KOH'-see) Perry threw for 228 yards and two touchdowns for Miami. Perry's 5-yard TD pass to Michael Harley helped the Hurricanes close to 37-34 with 5:39 left.

Tide's DeVonta Smith is 1st WR to win AP Player of the Year

UNDATED (AP) — The Associated Press has honored one of this year's Heisman finalists.

Alabama's DeVonta Smith is the AP college football player of the year. He is the first wide receiver to win the award since it was established in 1998.

Smith received 26 first-place votes and 114 points to finish ahead of his teammate and quarterback, Mac Jones. They are the first teammates to finish 1-2 in the voting for AP player of the year. Smith is also the first Alabama player to win the award. 

Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence finished third and Florida quarterback Kyle Trask was fourth. 

— The Texas Bowl has been canceled because of an increase of positive COVID-19 tests within TCU's program. The Horned Frogs were supposed to play Arkansas on New Year's Eve in Houston. It's the 19th bowl canceled this season and the third canceled since the bowl lineup was set earlier this month. 

— Illinois quarterback Brandon Peters will return for a third season with the Illini and play for new coach Bret Bielema (BEE'-leh-muh). Peters transferred from Michigan and threw for 1,884 yards with 18 touchdowns this season, his first with the Illini.

Cavaliers' Love to miss extended time with calf injury

CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love could miss more than a month with a calf injury he aggravated Sunday night in a game against Philadelphia. 

Love initially got hurt in Cleveland's first exhibition game and sat out the season opener to give it more rest. The five-time All-Star started against the 76ers before leaving the game in the second quarter. 

The 32-year-old's injury is a setback for the Cavaliers, who are off to their first 3-0 start since 2016. 

— Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Ja (jah) Morant will miss three to five weeks after spraining his left ankle in the Grizzlies' 116-111 overtime win at Brooklyn on Monday. Memphis said that further tests revealed Morant suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain. Morant led Memphis in scoring last season, averaging 17.8 points a game. He also opened this season scoring a career-high 44 points. 

Roethlisberger to sit out Steelers finale against Browns

UNDATED (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will sit out the team's regular-season finale against Cleveland so he can rest for the playoffs. Coach Mike Tomlin says Mason Rudolph will start for the AFC North champions when they face the Browns. 

The Steelers will enter the AFC playoffs as the second or third seed. The Browns are trying to end an 18-year postseason drought. 

— The Rams have placed leading receiver Cooper Kupp on the reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Kupp has a team-high 92 catches for 974 yards and three touchdowns this year.

— The Titans have put three-time Pro Bowl punter Brett Kern on their COVID-19 list, one day after kicker Stephen Gostkowski landed on the list. Tennessee visits Houston on Sunday needing a win or an Indianapolis loss to clinch its first AFC South title since 2008.

— The Browns have added three more players to their COVID-19 list. Safeties Andrew Sendejo and Karl Joseph were placed on the list, along with rookie tight end Harrison Bryant It's not yet known if Sendejo, Joseph or Bryant tested positive for the virus or if they had close contact with an infected person. A positive test would cause them to miss Sunday's showdown with the Steelers.

SAN DIEGO (AP) — The San Diego Padres have finalized their acquisition of ace left-hander Blake Snell from the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Rays will receive right-handers Luis Patiño and Cole Wilcox and catchers Francisco Mejía and Blake Hunt for the 2018 AL Cy Young Award winner.

Snell went 4-1 with a 3.24 ERA in 11 starts during the pandemic-shortened 2020 regular season. He also posted a 2-2 record with a 3.03 ERA in six postseason starts for the American League champions.

— The Twins have signed right-handed reliever Hansel Robles to a one-year, $2 million deal. The 30-year-old Robles had 23 saves and a 2.48 ERA for the Angels in 2019 before struggling He posted a 10.26 ERA in 18 games in 2020.

CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews (tayvz) will miss the start of training camp because of an unspecified illness, and there is no timetable for his return. The 32-year-old Toews says he has been experiencing symptoms that have left him feeling "drained and lethargic." 

The veteran center and three-time Stanley Cup champion had 18 goals and 42 assists in 70 games last season, but he also is one of the team's best defensive forwards and face-off options.

<h2>Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press</h2>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Jordan Bohannon scored 24 points, CJ Fredrick added 19 and Luka Garza finished with 18 as No. 10 Iowa defeated No. 19 Northwestern 87-72. The Hawkeyes won their eighth consecutive home game against a ranked opponent. Pete Nance led Northwestern with a career-high 21 points, including 17 in the first half. Chase Audige had 14 points, Miller Kopp added 11, and Ryan Young 10.NEW YORK (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs maintain the top spot in the AP Pro32 poll. The Green Bay Packers and Buffalo Bills switched places again. The Packers moved up to No. 2 after routing Tennessee on Sunday night and the Bills slipped to No. 3 despite pounding New England on Monday night. The New Orleans Saints stayed at No. 4 after Alvin Kamara's six-touchdown performance while the NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks rounded out the top five.KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have a delicious decision ahead of them this week: Do they play their starters in their regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Chargers, keeping them sharp for the postseason, or do they give them an extra week of rest after clinching the AFC's No. 1 seed on Sunday. The answer isn't quite as clear as it may seem. They also have a first-round playoff bye, which means anyone sitting will have two weeks without a game and could be ripe for rust.UNDATED (AP) — It's hard to determine who has been more dominant in men's college basketball: Gonzaga or the Big Ten Conference. The Bulldogs remain the clear-cut No. 1, earning 62 of 64 first-place votes after their latest win over a Top 25 foe. Gonzaga blitzed then-No. 16 Virginia 98-75 on Saturday for the most lopsided win over a ranked team in the Mark Few era to give the Bulldogs a poll-record fourth win over a Top 25 team in the first seven games of a season. Baylor and Kansas stayed second and third. Villanova and Houston each moved up a spot after Iowa's overtime loss to Minnesota. Meanwhile, sixth-ranked Wisconsin leads a pack of nine ranked teams from the Big Ten. Iowa tumbled four spots to 10th.KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Demarcus Robinson with just under two minutes. Then the Kansas City Chiefs watched as Pro Bowl kicker Younghoe Koo missed the tying field-goal try with 9 seconds left to give them a 17-14 win over the Atlanta Falcons and the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs. The Chiefs (14-1) won their NFL-record seventh straight one-possession game and matched a franchise record with their 10th straight win. The Falcons (4-11) lost by six points or fewer for the seventh time this season.MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Selton Miguel made a game-winning 3-pointer with 9.6 seconds left as Kansas State held off Omaha for a 60-58 victory. Sam'i Roe missed a 3-pointer for Omaha (2-8) to end it. Miguel finished with 11 points with three 3s on 3-of-14 shooting from the field. &nbsp;Mike McGuirl had 13 points and six assists to lead Kansas State (5-5), which has won four of its last five. Ayo Akinwole had 19 points and Roe added 12, and the pair made three 3-pointers apiece for Omaha. Akinwole's two free throws gave the Mavericks a 58-57 lead with 17 seconds remaining.&nbsp;CEDAR FALLS, Iowa (AP) — Austin Phyfe had 21 points as Northern Iowa beat Missouri State 85-75. Gaige Prim led the Bears with 20 points and nine rebounds.KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The one thing the Atlanta Falcons could count on all season was Younghoe Koo, their Pro Bowl kicker who had made 27 consecutive field-goal attempts. So when he sliced a 39-yard attempt wide right Sunday that would have sent their game against the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to overtime — well, that's pretty much how the season has gone for a team that was instead left to dwell on its seventh loss in a one-possession game.<h2>Update on the latest sports</h2>NBA-SCHEDULEBucks are trey bien vs. HeatUNDATED (AP) — The Miami Heat knocked out the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eastern Conference semifinals this year before advancing to the NBA Finals. The Bucks gained a modicum of revenge with a 3-point barrage in a 144-97 pounding of the Heat.The Bucks set an NBA record by nailing 29 3-pointers, breaking the old mark midway through the fourth quarter. They shot 29 for 51 from beyond the arc, two nights after going 7 for 38 in a loss to New York.Khris Middleton had four 3's on his way to 25 points. Jrue Holiday made six 3's in his 24-point night, and Donte DiVincenzo was 5-for-6 from deep to finish with 17 points.One of the few things the Heat did well was holding Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH'-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON'-poh) to nine points.Tyler Herro (HEE'-roh) had 23 points for Miami.Also on the NBA schedule:— The Celtics erased a 17-point, second-half deficit as Jayson Tatum provided 14 of his 27 points during a fourth-quarter run in a 116-111 triumph over the Pacers. Jaylen Brown added 20 points for Boston, which outscored Indiana, 33-18 in the final period. — The 76ers earned a 100-93 victory over the winless Raptors as Joel Embiid (joh-EHL' ehm-BEED') furnished 29 points and 16 rebounds. Embiid suffered an apparent leg injury in the third quarter, but he returned a few minutes later with Philadelphia down by 11.— Stephen Curry dropped in 31 points and Andrew Wiggins had 27 in the Warriors' 116-106 decision over the winless Pistons. The injury-plagued Warriors have won two in a row after dropping their first two games by a combined 65 points.— The Magic are 4-0 for the first time in team history after Nikola Vucevic (nih-KOH'-lah voo-SEH'-vihch) had a season-high 28 points and 10 rebounds in a 118-107 downing of the Thunder. Dwayne Bacon went 9 of 10 from the field and scored 18 points to go with eight rebounds for Orlando.— Julius Randle recorded his first triple-double in two years by collecting 28 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists in the Knicks' 95-86 victory over the Cavaliers. Randle scored 18 in the first half as New York built a 16-point lead before completing its second straight win since an 0-2 start.— Zach LaVine (lah-VEEN') scored 23 points, including nine straight in the third quarter of the Bulls' first win of the season, 115-107 at Washington. The Wizards fell to 0-4 despite Russell Westbrook, who had 21 points, 15 boards and 11 assists in his third straight triple-double.TOP25 MEN'S BASKETBALL-SCHEDULEBaylor rolls againUNDATED (AP) — Second-ranked Baylor continued its Big 12 preparations with another easy home win.MaCio Teague (MAY'-see-oh teeg) scored a team-high 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting as the Bears blew out Central Arkansas, 93-56 to improve to 7-0. Davion Mitchell chipped in six points, grabbed six rebounds and led the Baylor passing game with 12 assists.The Bears erupted for 53 points in the first half and outscored the Bears, 40-21 the rest of the way.Tulsa provided the day's biggest surprise in top-25 action.Brandon Rachal capped his 22-point night by draining two free throws with 0.1 seconds remaining to send the Hurricanes past fifth-ranked Houston, 65-64. After Houston's Caleb Mills made a 7-foot floater with six seconds left, Rachal took a pass, drove the length of the court and was fouled by center Brison Gresham at the rim.Elsewhere on Tuesday's top-25 men's basketball schedule:— Gonzaga ran the nation's longest home winning streak to 43 games as Corey Kispert scored 25 points to lead the top-ranked Bulldogs to a 112-67 dismantling of Dixie State. Joel Ayayi (joh-EHL ah-YAH'-ee) added 21 points and 11 rebounds for the 9-0 Zags.— Derek Culver scored 18 points and ninth-ranked West Virginia used its size advantage to overpower Northeastern, 73-51. Oscar Tshiebwe (SHEEB'-way) had 12 points and 15 rebounds for the 8-2 Mountaineers, who had a 45-34 rebounding advantage and forced 19 turnovers.— Jordan Bohannon shot 6-for-9 from 3-point range while scoring 24 points to send 10th-ranked Iowa to an 87-72 decision over No. 19 Northwestern. CJ Fredrick added 19 and Luka Garza finished with 18 in the Hawkeyes' eighth consecutive home win against a ranked opponents.— Kevin McCullar scored 11 points in his injury-delayed season debut and No. 13 Texas Tech warmed up for the rest of its Big 12 schedule by thumping Incarnate Word, 79-51. Marcus Santos-Silva also had 11 points for the 8-2 Red Raiders, who got a brief holiday break after a two-point win at Oklahoma.— No. 14 Rutgers was an 81-76 winner against Purdue as Montez Mathis contributed 16 of his career-high 25 points in the second half. Geo Baker had 19 points six rebounds and four assists for the Scarlet Knights, who played without leading scorer Ron Harper Jr. because of an ankle injury.— Nick Honor delivered all his 13 points in the second half, including the go-ahead 3-pointer, as Clemson rallied past No. 18 Florida State, 77-67. Clyde Trapp scored 15 points and Al-Amir Dawes added 11 for the Tigers.— Keve Aluma scored a career-high 26 points and No. 24 Virginia Tech made crucial free throws in the final minute to hold off Miami, 80-78. Justyn Mutts added 15 points for the Hokies, who made three free throws in the final 37 seconds after blowing most of a 17-point lead.COLLEGE BASKETBALL-ARIZONA-POSTSEASON BANArizona men's basketball self-imposes 1-year postseason banTUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The Arizona men's basketball program has self-imposed a one-year postseason ban related to its long-running NCAA rules infractions case.The NCAA issued a Notice of Allegations in October accusing the Wildcats of nine counts of misconduct, including five Level I violations. The violations include a lack of institutional control and failure to monitor by the university, and lack of head coach control by basketball coach Sean Miller.Arizona is 7-1 this season, including a 1-1 mark in the Pac-12 Conference. COLLEGE FOOTBALL-BOWL SCHEDULECowboys get bowl winORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Oklahoma State has ended its season with a bowl game victory.The Cowboys won the Cheez-It Bowl by build a three-touchdown lead before downing No. 18 Miami, 37-34.The Cowboys scored on their first three possessions while jumping out to a 21-0 lead. Brennan Presley caught three of Sanders' TD passes, finishing with six receptions for 118 yards after entering the game with just one catch all season.Hurricanes starting quarterback D'Erik King threw a 10-yard TD pass but had to leave the game late in the first half with a right knee injury. Backup quarterback N'Kosi (nuh-KOH'-see) Perry threw for 228 yards and two touchdowns for Miami. Perry's 5-yard TD pass to Michael Harley helped the Hurricanes close to 37-34 with 5:39 left.COLLEGE FOOTBALL-NEWSTide's DeVonta Smith is 1st WR to win AP Player of the YearUNDATED (AP) — The Associated Press has honored one of this year's Heisman finalists.Alabama's DeVonta Smith is the AP college football player of the year. He is the first wide receiver to win the award since it was established in 1998.Smith received 26 first-place votes and 114 points to finish ahead of his teammate and quarterback, Mac Jones. They are the first teammates to finish 1-2 in the voting for AP player of the year. Smith is also the first Alabama player to win the award. Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence finished third and Florida quarterback Kyle Trask was fourth. In other college football news:— The Texas Bowl has been canceled because of an increase of positive COVID-19 tests within TCU's program. The Horned Frogs were supposed to play Arkansas on New Year's Eve in Houston. It's the 19th bowl canceled this season and the third canceled since the bowl lineup was set earlier this month. — Illinois quarterback Brandon Peters will return for a third season with the Illini and play for new coach Bret Bielema (BEE'-leh-muh). Peters transferred from Michigan and threw for 1,884 yards with 18 touchdowns this season, his first with the Illini.NBA-NEWSCavaliers' Love to miss extended time with calf injuryCLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love could miss more than a month with a calf injury he aggravated Sunday night in a game against Philadelphia. Love initially got hurt in Cleveland's first exhibition game and sat out the season opener to give it more rest. The five-time All-Star started against the 76ers before leaving the game in the second quarter. The 32-year-old's injury is a setback for the Cavaliers, who are off to their first 3-0 start since 2016. In other NBA news:— Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Ja (jah) Morant will miss three to five weeks after spraining his left ankle in the Grizzlies' 116-111 overtime win at Brooklyn on Monday. Memphis said that further tests revealed Morant suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain. Morant led Memphis in scoring last season, averaging 17.8 points a game. He also opened this season scoring a career-high 44 points. NFL-NEWSRoethlisberger to sit out Steelers finale against BrownsUNDATED (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will sit out the team's regular-season finale against Cleveland so he can rest for the playoffs. Coach Mike Tomlin says Mason Rudolph will start for the AFC North champions when they face the Browns. The Steelers will enter the AFC playoffs as the second or third seed. The Browns are trying to end an 18-year postseason drought. In other NFL news:— The Rams have placed leading receiver Cooper Kupp on the reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Kupp has a team-high 92 catches for 974 yards and three touchdowns this year.— The Titans have put three-time Pro Bowl punter Brett Kern on their COVID-19 list, one day after kicker Stephen Gostkowski landed on the list. Tennessee visits Houston on Sunday needing a win or an Indianapolis loss to clinch its first AFC South title since 2008.— The Browns have added three more players to their COVID-19 list. Safeties Andrew Sendejo and Karl Joseph were placed on the list, along with rookie tight end Harrison Bryant It's not yet known if Sendejo, Joseph or Bryant tested positive for the virus or if they had close contact with an infected person. A positive test would cause them to miss Sunday's showdown with the Steelers.MLB-RAYS/PADRES TRADERays, Padres finalize Snell swapSAN DIEGO (AP) — The San Diego Padres have finalized their acquisition of ace left-hander Blake Snell from the Tampa Bay Rays.The Rays will receive right-handers Luis Patiño and Cole Wilcox and catchers Francisco Mejía and Blake Hunt for the 2018 AL Cy Young Award winner.Snell went 4-1 with a 3.24 ERA in 11 starts during the pandemic-shortened 2020 regular season. He also posted a 2-2 record with a 3.03 ERA in six postseason starts for the American League champions.Checking out other major league news:— The Twins have signed right-handed reliever Hansel Robles to a one-year, $2 million deal. The 30-year-old Robles had 23 saves and a 2.48 ERA for the Angels in 2019 before struggling He posted a 10.26 ERA in 18 games in 2020.NHL-BLACKHAWKS-TOEWSToews sidelined indefinitely by illnessCHICAGO (AP) — Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews (tayvz) will miss the start of training camp because of an unspecified illness, and there is no timetable for his return. The 32-year-old Toews says he has been experiencing symptoms that have left him feeling "drained and lethargic." The veteran center and three-time Stanley Cup champion had 18 goals and 42 assists in 70 games last season, but he also is one of the team's best defensive forwards and face-off options.

Sports Headlines for Wednesday

ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit says he has tested positive for COVID-19 and will have to call the College Football Playoff semifinal between No. 2 Clemson and No. 3 Ohio State from home. Herbstreit posted Tuesday night on Twitter that he was feeling good and his family was OK. He said he will still be part of “College GameDay” on the morning of Jan. 1 and on the call of the Sugar Bowl with play-by-play announcer Chris Fowler that night.

ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit says he has tested positive for COVID-19 and will have to call the College Football Playoff semifinal between No. 2 Clemson and No. 3 Ohio State from home. Herbstreit posted Tuesday night on Twitter that he was feeling good and his family was OK. He said he will still be part of “College GameDay” on the morning of Jan. 1 and on the call of the Sugar Bowl with play-by-play announcer Chris Fowler that night.