A former SEC edge rusher has chosen KU.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: Former Texas LB Justice Finkley is expected to transfer to Kansas 🔮 Finkley has 1 year of eligibility remaining. He has 26 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 2.5 sacks, and 1 forced fumble in his career <a href="https://t.co/cy9XefTbXb">pic.twitter.com/cy9XefTbXb</a>&mdash; A&amp;P Sports Agency (@APSportsAgency) <a href="https://twitter.com/APSportsAgency/status/1878862941040329116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🏈 KU lands Texas transfer

DragonTalk

(Basketball - live from Chick-fil-A) - 6 p.m. (KWBW) Chiefs Kingdom Show - 7 p.m. (KWBW)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutch High GBB/BBB vs. Valley Center - 5:45 p.m. pregame, 6 p.m. tipoff (KWBW) K-State MBB vs. Texas Tech - 7 p.m. pregame, 8 p.m. tipoff (KHMY)

HutchCC WBB/MBB vs. Seward County - 5:15 p.m. pregame, 5:30 p.m. tipoff (KHUT, KWBW)

Reno County Coaches Show - 6 p.m. (KWBW) Jerome Tang Show - 7 p.m. (KHMY)

Hutch High GBB/BBB vs. Great Bend - 5:45 p.m. pregame, 6 p.m. tipoff (KWBW)

K-State MBB at Kansas - 11 a.m. pregame, noon tipoff (KHMY) HutchCC WBB/MBB at Dodge City - 12:45 p.m. pregame, 1 p.m. tipoff (KHUT) Chiefs vs. Texans (AFC Divisional) - 2 p.m. pregame, 3:30 p.m. kickoff (KWBW)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725282945901.png" alt="EAGLE Media" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHMY2">KHMY-FM (93.1)</a> <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">KHUT-FM (102.9)</a> <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5)</a>Monday, Jan. 13DragonTalk

(Basketball - live from Chick-fil-A) - 6 p.m. (KWBW) Chiefs Kingdom Show - 7 p.m. (KWBW)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday, Jan. 14Hutch High GBB/BBB vs. Valley Center - 5:45 p.m. pregame, 6 p.m. tipoff (KWBW) K-State MBB vs. Texas Tech - 7 p.m. pregame, 8 p.m. tipoff (KHMY)Wednesday, Jan. 15HutchCC WBB/MBB vs. Seward County - 5:15 p.m. pregame, 5:30 p.m. tipoff (KHUT, KWBW) Thursday, Jan. 16Reno County Coaches Show - 6 p.m. (KWBW) Jerome Tang Show - 7 p.m. (KHMY)Friday, Jan. 17Hutch High GBB/BBB vs. Great Bend - 5:45 p.m. pregame, 6 p.m. tipoff (KWBW)Saturday, Jan. 18K-State MBB at Kansas - 11 a.m. pregame, noon tipoff (KHMY) HutchCC WBB/MBB at Dodge City - 12:45 p.m. pregame, 1 p.m. tipoff (KHUT) Chiefs vs. Texans (AFC Divisional) - 2 p.m. pregame, 3:30 p.m. kickoff (KWBW)Sunday, Jan. 19

🎧 EAGLE Media Sports Broadcast Calendar (Jan. 13-Jan. 19)

ARNIE STAPLETON AP Pro Football Writer

The biggest question facing the Kansas City Chiefs as they resume their quest to become the first team ever to win three consecutive Super Bowls is whether 3 1/2 weeks' rest will result in too much rust.

Patrick Mahomes and most of Kansas City's other stars last played on Christmas Day, when they walloped the Pittsburgh Steelers to secure the AFC's top seed and lone first-round bye.

The Chiefs (15-2) rested their regulars in their season finale at Denver and the Broncos ended an eight-year playoff drought with an emphatic 38-0 win, delivering Andy Reid's first shutout in his 12 seasons as Chiefs head coach and handing him just the fourth overall of his 26-year NFL head coaching career.

That also marked the second-biggest blowout of a Reid-coached team, behind only a 42-0 whitewash at the hands of the Seattle Seahawks in 2005 while he was coaching the Philadelphia Eagles.

That may have stung Reid and the Chiefs a bit but it hardly mattered — and maybe their prolonged break won't, either. Reid is 29-5 in his career after a bye, including 7-1 in the playoffs following rest in Round 1, 3-0 with Philadelphia and 4-1 with Kansas City.

The Chiefs matchup in the divisional round will be on Saturday against the Houston Texans at 3:30 p.m. at GEHA Field at Arrowhead. The Texans won over the Chargers 32-12 this past weekend to advance to the divisional round. 

The last home date for Kansas City was against Houston back on Dec. 21. The Chiefs won that one 27-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729550069639.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks at a news conference after an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks at a news conference after an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)</figcaption>
 </figure>ARNIE STAPLETON AP Pro Football WriterThe biggest question facing the Kansas City Chiefs as they resume their quest to become the first team ever to win three consecutive Super Bowls is whether 3 1/2 weeks' rest will result in too much rust.Patrick Mahomes and most of Kansas City's other stars last played on Christmas Day, when they walloped the Pittsburgh Steelers to secure the AFC's top seed and lone first-round bye.The Chiefs (15-2) rested their regulars in their season finale at Denver and the Broncos ended an eight-year playoff drought with an emphatic 38-0 win, delivering Andy Reid's first shutout in his 12 seasons as Chiefs head coach and handing him just the fourth overall of his 26-year NFL head coaching career.That also marked the second-biggest blowout of a Reid-coached team, behind only a 42-0 whitewash at the hands of the Seattle Seahawks in 2005 while he was coaching the Philadelphia Eagles.That may have stung Reid and the Chiefs a bit but it hardly mattered — and maybe their prolonged break won't, either. Reid is 29-5 in his career after a bye, including 7-1 in the playoffs following rest in Round 1, 3-0 with Philadelphia and 4-1 with Kansas City.The Chiefs matchup in the divisional round will be on Saturday against the Houston Texans at 3:30 p.m. at GEHA Field at Arrowhead. The Texans won over the Chargers 32-12 this past weekend to advance to the divisional round. The last home date for Kansas City was against Houston back on Dec. 21. The Chiefs won that one 27-19.

🏈 Chiefs to play Houston Saturday

AP Sports Summary for January 13th, 2025:

Jayden Daniels leads Commanders to first playoff win in nearly 7,000 days, 23-20 over the Buccaneers

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Jayden Daniels ran for a critical first down to set up Zane Gonzalez's 37-yard field goal that clanged off the right upright and went through as time expired, and the Washington Commanders beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 in an NFC wild-card game for the franchise's first playoff win in 6,945 days. Daniels became the third rookie quarterback in three years to win a playoff game. The Commanders will face the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions in the divisional round. Daniels threw for 268 yards and two touchdowns. Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers missed several opportunities and the veteran quarterback committed a critical turnover in the fourth quarter.

Hurts tosses 2 TD passes and Goedert throws 3 stiff-arms to lead Eagles past Packers 22-10

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts threw two touchdown passes in his first game since a late-season concussion, Dallas Goedert threw three stiff-arms on a rugged touchdown catch and the Philadelphia Eagles rode their NFL-best defense to a 22-10 wild-card playoff win over the Green Bay Packers. Hurts threw for a modest 131 yards but played with no hesitation as he came back from a three-week layoff after a concussion in December. The NFC East champions will host a divisional round game against the winner of Monday night's game between Minnesota and the Los Angeles Rams next week.

Josh Allen leads balanced offense as Bills dominate Broncos for 31-7 wild-card win

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes, James Cook scored on a 5-yard run and finished with 120 yards rushing, and the Buffalo Bills leaned on a balanced offensive attack in a 31-7 win over the Denver Broncos in a wild-card playoff game. The Bills methodically wore down the Broncos by scoring on six of their first seven drives in building a 31-7 lead in an outing where they finished with a 23-minute edge in time of possession. The five-time AFC East defending champion Bills advanced to the divisional round for a fifth straight postseason, and will face the third-seeded Baltimore Ravens next Sunday night. The seventh-seeded Broncos were outclassed in their first playoff appearance since their Super Bowl-winning season in 2015.

Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen will face off for a berth in the AFC championship game

Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen won't decide the NFL MVP next week. The stakes are higher with a spot in the AFC championship game on the line. Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens will visit Allen and the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round while Patrick Mahomes and the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs will host C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans. The winners face off on Jan. 26 for a berth in the Super Bowl. In the NFC, the Washington Commanders will play at the top-seeded Detroit Lions after knocking off the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic and new coach Andy Murray get a win against US teen in debut

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Novak Djokovic's first match with former rival Andy Murray as his coach turned into a first-round victory at the Australian Open. That is after things did not start all that well, even against a 19-year-old making his Grand Slam debut. Eventually, Djokovic asserted himself for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win against Nishesh Basavareddy, an American who left Stanford University and turned pro last month. That got Djokovic started in his bid for an 11th championship at Melbourne Park and a record 25th major title overall. Not entirely clear: Did Murray's presence at courtside make much of a difference, one way or another?

Turning the page: Eagles receiver A.J. Brown reads inspirational book on sideline during playoff win

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A.J. Brown had a novel ideal to pass time on the bench during Philadelphia's wild-card playoff game. The Eagles wide receiver passed on the playbook and checked out an inspirational title. Brown casually flipped through the pages of "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy. Brown had time for some light reading with only one catch for 10 yards in the Philadelphia Eagles' 22-10 wild-card playoff win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night. The book is described on the cover as one that will "Train your mind for extraordinary performance and the best possible life."

Jannik Sinner starts his Australian Open title defense with a straight set win

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Jannik Sinner has started his Australian Open title defense with a challenging win over No. 35-ranked Nicolas Jarry. The 23-year-old Italian had plenty of support in the crowd at Rod Laver Arena in two tough early sets before extending his winning streak to 15 matches. Top-ranked Sinner entered his first Grand Slam title defense with attention from last year's doping case on his mind. Third-seeded Coco Gauff opened her Australian Open with a 6-3, 6-3 win over 2020 champion Sofia Kenin. Gauff won the title at the WTA Finals last November and started this season by helping the U.S. to victory at the United Cup in Sydney.

Frances Tiafoe picks up a tough victory after throwing up at the Australian Open

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Frances Tiafoe has thrown up during a first-round match at the Australian Open along the way to a five-set victory. He said afterward he might have quit if this had been just a run-of-the-mill tournament. The 17th-seeded Tiafoe, who turns 27 in a week, managed to win the topsy-turvy match against Arthur Rinderknech of France 7-6 (2), 6-3, 4-6, 6-7 (4), 6-3 in 4 hours, 8 minutes on Monday. His Grand Slam breakthrough came at Melbourne Park in 2019, when he made it to the quarterfinals before losing to Rafael Nadal. Since then, Tiafoe has taken more steps forward, including making it all the way to the semifinals at the U.S. Open in 2022 and 2024.

Nick Taylor wins another playoff with clutch play on the 18th in the Sony Open

HONOLULU (AP) — Nick Taylor is the winner of the Sony Open and he's not even sure how it happened. The Canadian was never in the mix until chipping in for eagle on the 18th hole for a 65 that got him into a playoff with Nico Echavarria. On the second extra hole, Taylor hit a marvelous pitch from 46 yards to 3 feet for birdie. Echavarria three-putted from 40 feet. Taylor now has won his last three PGA Tour events in a playoff. Stephan Jaeger and J.J. Spaun led most of the day until making critical mistakes that left them one back.

New England hires former Patriots Super Bowl champ Mike Vrabel as coach

The New England Patriots have hired Mike Vrabel as their head coach. The move comes after Patriots owner Robert Kraft fired Jerod Mayo after the team's season finale victory over the Buffalo Bills to finish 4-13 in his lone season as coach. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich, former Houston Texans offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton and Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson also interviewed for the job. But Vrabel, a fan favorite during eight seasons as a player in New England where he was a member of its first three Super Bowl winners and an inductee into the team's hall of fame in 2023, was the preferred candidate.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

Final	(16)Michigan St.	78	Northwestern	68	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Monday, January 13th, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Monday, January 13th, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/show/6asyAuL4QSLw0KhjSj3BUq?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for January 13th, 2025:Jayden Daniels leads Commanders to first playoff win in nearly 7,000 days, 23-20 over the BuccaneersTAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Jayden Daniels ran for a critical first down to set up Zane Gonzalez's 37-yard field goal that clanged off the right upright and went through as time expired, and the Washington Commanders beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 in an NFC wild-card game for the franchise's first playoff win in 6,945 days. Daniels became the third rookie quarterback in three years to win a playoff game. The Commanders will face the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions in the divisional round. Daniels threw for 268 yards and two touchdowns. Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers missed several opportunities and the veteran quarterback committed a critical turnover in the fourth quarter.Hurts tosses 2 TD passes and Goedert throws 3 stiff-arms to lead Eagles past Packers 22-10PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts threw two touchdown passes in his first game since a late-season concussion, Dallas Goedert threw three stiff-arms on a rugged touchdown catch and the Philadelphia Eagles rode their NFL-best defense to a 22-10 wild-card playoff win over the Green Bay Packers. Hurts threw for a modest 131 yards but played with no hesitation as he came back from a three-week layoff after a concussion in December. The NFC East champions will host a divisional round game against the winner of Monday night's game between Minnesota and the Los Angeles Rams next week.Josh Allen leads balanced offense as Bills dominate Broncos for 31-7 wild-card winORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes, James Cook scored on a 5-yard run and finished with 120 yards rushing, and the Buffalo Bills leaned on a balanced offensive attack in a 31-7 win over the Denver Broncos in a wild-card playoff game. The Bills methodically wore down the Broncos by scoring on six of their first seven drives in building a 31-7 lead in an outing where they finished with a 23-minute edge in time of possession. The five-time AFC East defending champion Bills advanced to the divisional round for a fifth straight postseason, and will face the third-seeded Baltimore Ravens next Sunday night. The seventh-seeded Broncos were outclassed in their first playoff appearance since their Super Bowl-winning season in 2015.Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen will face off for a berth in the AFC championship gameLamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen won't decide the NFL MVP next week. The stakes are higher with a spot in the AFC championship game on the line. Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens will visit Allen and the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round while Patrick Mahomes and the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs will host C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans. The winners face off on Jan. 26 for a berth in the Super Bowl. In the NFC, the Washington Commanders will play at the top-seeded Detroit Lions after knocking off the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers.Australian Open: Novak Djokovic and new coach Andy Murray get a win against US teen in debutMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Novak Djokovic's first match with former rival Andy Murray as his coach turned into a first-round victory at the Australian Open. That is after things did not start all that well, even against a 19-year-old making his Grand Slam debut. Eventually, Djokovic asserted himself for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win against Nishesh Basavareddy, an American who left Stanford University and turned pro last month. That got Djokovic started in his bid for an 11th championship at Melbourne Park and a record 25th major title overall. Not entirely clear: Did Murray's presence at courtside make much of a difference, one way or another?Turning the page: Eagles receiver A.J. Brown reads inspirational book on sideline during playoff winPHILADELPHIA (AP) — A.J. Brown had a novel ideal to pass time on the bench during Philadelphia's wild-card playoff game. The Eagles wide receiver passed on the playbook and checked out an inspirational title. Brown casually flipped through the pages of "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy. Brown had time for some light reading with only one catch for 10 yards in the Philadelphia Eagles' 22-10 wild-card playoff win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night. The book is described on the cover as one that will "Train your mind for extraordinary performance and the best possible life."Jannik Sinner starts his Australian Open title defense with a straight set winMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Jannik Sinner has started his Australian Open title defense with a challenging win over No. 35-ranked Nicolas Jarry. The 23-year-old Italian had plenty of support in the crowd at Rod Laver Arena in two tough early sets before extending his winning streak to 15 matches. Top-ranked Sinner entered his first Grand Slam title defense with attention from last year's doping case on his mind. Third-seeded Coco Gauff opened her Australian Open with a 6-3, 6-3 win over 2020 champion Sofia Kenin. Gauff won the title at the WTA Finals last November and started this season by helping the U.S. to victory at the United Cup in Sydney.Frances Tiafoe picks up a tough victory after throwing up at the Australian OpenMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Frances Tiafoe has thrown up during a first-round match at the Australian Open along the way to a five-set victory. He said afterward he might have quit if this had been just a run-of-the-mill tournament. The 17th-seeded Tiafoe, who turns 27 in a week, managed to win the topsy-turvy match against Arthur Rinderknech of France 7-6 (2), 6-3, 4-6, 6-7 (4), 6-3 in 4 hours, 8 minutes on Monday. His Grand Slam breakthrough came at Melbourne Park in 2019, when he made it to the quarterfinals before losing to Rafael Nadal. Since then, Tiafoe has taken more steps forward, including making it all the way to the semifinals at the U.S. Open in 2022 and 2024.Nick Taylor wins another playoff with clutch play on the 18th in the Sony OpenHONOLULU (AP) — Nick Taylor is the winner of the Sony Open and he's not even sure how it happened. The Canadian was never in the mix until chipping in for eagle on the 18th hole for a 65 that got him into a playoff with Nico Echavarria. On the second extra hole, Taylor hit a marvelous pitch from 46 yards to 3 feet for birdie. Echavarria three-putted from 40 feet. Taylor now has won his last three PGA Tour events in a playoff. Stephan Jaeger and J.J. Spaun led most of the day until making critical mistakes that left them one back.New England hires former Patriots Super Bowl champ Mike Vrabel as coachThe New England Patriots have hired Mike Vrabel as their head coach. The move comes after Patriots owner Robert Kraft fired Jerod Mayo after the team's season finale victory over the Buffalo Bills to finish 4-13 in his lone season as coach. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich, former Houston Texans offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton and Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson also interviewed for the job. But Vrabel, a fan favorite during eight seasons as a player in New England where he was a member of its first three Super Bowl winners and an inductee into the team's hall of fame in 2023, was the preferred candidate.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Denver	112	Dallas	101	Final	New York	140	Milwaukee	106	Final	Sacramento	124	Chicago	119	Final	Indiana	108	Cleveland	93	Final	Boston	120	New Orleans	119	Final	Oklahoma City	136	Washington	95	Final	Orlando	104	Philadelphia	99	Final OT	Utah	112	Brooklyn	111	Final	Phoenix	120	Charlotte	113	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Detroit	6	Seattle	2	Final	Tampa Bay	5	Pittsburgh	2	Final	Ottawa	3	Dallas	2	Final OT	Anaheim	3	Carolina	2	Final	Vegas	4	Minnesota	1	___NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PLAYOFFSFinal	Buffalo	31	Denver	7	Final	Philadelphia	22	Green Bay	10	Final	Washington	23	Tampa Bay	20	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	(15)Oregon	82	Penn St.	81	Final	(16)Michigan St.	78	Northwestern	68	Final	(20)Purdue	104	Nebraska	68	Final	(21)West Virginia	78	Colorado	70	Final	(24)Michigan	91	Washington	75	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Minnesota	at	Washington	7 p.m.			Detroit	at	New York	7:30 p.m.			Golden State	at	Toronto	7:30 p.m.			Memphis	at	Houston	8 p.m.			Miami	at	L.A. Clippers	10:30 p.m.			San Antonio	at	L.A. Lakers	10:30 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Florida	at	Philadelphia	7 p.m.			Calgary	at	Chicago	7:30 p.m.			Los Angeles	at	Edmonton	9:30 p.m.	___NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PLAYOFFS		Minnesota	at	L.A. Rams	8 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		(22)UCLA	at	Rutgers	6:30 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Monday

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills'&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-josh-allen-7ce3fc8ddcb6da68f7d1b83109912ab7">spread-the-wealth approach on offense</a>&nbsp;that was so productive in the regular season proved unstoppable in their playoff opener.

Whether it was Allen completing a 24-yard touchdown pass to&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1878533116509446443">sliding running back Ty Johnson on fourth down</a>, or James Cook racking up 120 yards rushing, including&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BuffaloBills/status/1878512854384435499">a 5-yard touchdown run</a>, the Bills leaned on a balanced attack in a 31-7 win over the Denver Broncos in a wild-card playoff game on Sunday.

“I don’t think there was one certain thing over another. We just wanted to come out and execute well,” Allen said. “At the end of the day, we just wanted to come out and play our best football, and I feel like we did that today.”

With Allen completing 20 of 26 attempts for 272 yards passing and two touchdowns, and the running game combining for 210 yards, Buffalo methodically wore down the Broncos by scoring on six of its first seven drives in a game where the Bills finished with a 23-minute edge in time of possession.

Allen completed passes to eight players, including getting receiver Curtis Samuel involved by essentially sealing the win&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/1878537183746793497">with a 55-yard touchdown catch</a>&nbsp;on the opening snap of the fourth quarter.

“I’ll speak on behalf of Curtis. He probably didn’t have the season that he wanted to have,” Allen said of the eighth-year player who was limited to 31 catches for 253 yards and a touchdown. “But he just continued to work hard, and that’s kind of the mentality we’ve had all year is everybody eats. And today was his day.”

The five-time defending AFC East champion Bills, who became the NFL’s first team to score 30 touchdowns rushing and passing in a season, advanced to the divisional round for a fifth straight postseason, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/allen-jackson-mahomes-stroud-beac74965e8b949f99bf43d26a4d53d0">will face the third-seeded Baltimore Ravens next Sunday night</a>.

The Ravens, coming off a 28-14 win over Pittsburgh on Saturday, routed Buffalo 35-10 at Baltimore in Week 4 this season. The outing will mark the second playoff meeting between Allen and Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson after Buffalo defeated the Ravens 17-3 in the 2020 divisional round.

“This is what everyone’s been waiting for, right?” coach Sean McDermott said. “So it’ll be a nice week and everyone will be looking forward to it, and they’re a great football team. I mean they handled us pretty good the first go around and they’re certainly playing well.”

The seventh-seeded Broncos were outclassed in their first playoff appearance since their Super Bowl-winning season in 2015.

Denver’s offense essentially stalled after rookie Bo Nix capped a five-play opening drive with a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/1878504209831600380">43-yard touchdown pass to former college teammate Troy Franklin</a>. Nix finished 13 of 22 for 144 yards in an outing where Denver punted four times and turned the ball over on downs twice.

The game served as a lesson in how much further the first-round pick and the Broncos still have to go after a promising season in which Nix threw 29 touchdown passes — two short of the NFL rookie record.

“I’m really proud of these guys. We’ve overcome a lot and not really been counted in many games,” Nix said. “But to make the playoffs was a special moment for this group. It’s something we can build off of. ... Our goals are changing.”

Meantime, the Broncos attacking defense was kept at bay by an Allen-led attack that was more than content in gaining small chunks of yards on lengthy time-consuming drives. The Broncos, who had an NFL-leading 63 sacks this seasons, sacked Allen just twice in an game where the Bills punted once.

“Who got punched in the mouth?” Bills edge rusher Greg Rousseau asked, dismissively, regarding the Broncos scoring 2:24 into the game.

“It really was just a message to ourselves,” Rousseau said. “We know who we are week after week, and what we’re capable of and what we’re supposed to do out there. That’s what it’s all about.”

Though the Bills didn't force a takeaway, they made impactful plays in limiting the Broncos to convert just two of nine third down opportunities.

And then there was Cam Lewis' diving tackle in shoving running back Jaleel McLaughlin out of bounds for no gain on fourth-and-2 at the Buffalo 14 early in the fourth quarter.

With Buffalo leading 13-7, Allen broke the game open with his touchdown pass to Johnson with 3:06 left in the third quarter. The score held up following a replay review, which showed Johnson’s foot touching out of bounds but after he secured the ball.

“You tell me it’s complete, I’m going to sign up for it every week,” McDermott said in placing his faith in Allen to convert on fourth down. “You guys know that. I trust him and I believe in him.”

Allen's touchdown to Samuel came on Buffalo's next possession.

Cook became Buffalo’s first player to top 100 yards rushing in a playoff game since Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas had 158 yards rushing in a 1995 wild-card playoff win over Miami. Allen increased his playoff total to 23 passing touchdowns, breaking the franchise record of 21 held by Hall of Famer Jim Kelly.

Bills: Host the Ravens in a matchup of two quarterbacks selected in the first round of the 2018 draft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736767100219.jpeg" alt="Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) carries the ball for a first down against the Denver Broncos during the third quarter of an NFL wild card playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)" />
 <figcaption>Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) carries the ball for a first down against the Denver Broncos during the third quarter of an NFL wild card playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)</figcaption>
 </figure>ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills'&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-josh-allen-7ce3fc8ddcb6da68f7d1b83109912ab7">spread-the-wealth approach on offense</a>&nbsp;that was so productive in the regular season proved unstoppable in their playoff opener.Whether it was Allen completing a 24-yard touchdown pass to&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1878533116509446443">sliding running back Ty Johnson on fourth down</a>, or James Cook racking up 120 yards rushing, including&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BuffaloBills/status/1878512854384435499">a 5-yard touchdown run</a>, the Bills leaned on a balanced attack in a 31-7 win over the Denver Broncos in a wild-card playoff game on Sunday.“I don’t think there was one certain thing over another. We just wanted to come out and execute well,” Allen said. “At the end of the day, we just wanted to come out and play our best football, and I feel like we did that today.”With Allen completing 20 of 26 attempts for 272 yards passing and two touchdowns, and the running game combining for 210 yards, Buffalo methodically wore down the Broncos by scoring on six of its first seven drives in a game where the Bills finished with a 23-minute edge in time of possession.Allen completed passes to eight players, including getting receiver Curtis Samuel involved by essentially sealing the win&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/1878537183746793497">with a 55-yard touchdown catch</a>&nbsp;on the opening snap of the fourth quarter.“I’ll speak on behalf of Curtis. He probably didn’t have the season that he wanted to have,” Allen said of the eighth-year player who was limited to 31 catches for 253 yards and a touchdown. “But he just continued to work hard, and that’s kind of the mentality we’ve had all year is everybody eats. And today was his day.”The five-time defending AFC East champion Bills, who became the NFL’s first team to score 30 touchdowns rushing and passing in a season, advanced to the divisional round for a fifth straight postseason, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/allen-jackson-mahomes-stroud-beac74965e8b949f99bf43d26a4d53d0">will face the third-seeded Baltimore Ravens next Sunday night</a>.The Ravens, coming off a 28-14 win over Pittsburgh on Saturday, routed Buffalo 35-10 at Baltimore in Week 4 this season. The outing will mark the second playoff meeting between Allen and Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson after Buffalo defeated the Ravens 17-3 in the 2020 divisional round.“This is what everyone’s been waiting for, right?” coach Sean McDermott said. “So it’ll be a nice week and everyone will be looking forward to it, and they’re a great football team. I mean they handled us pretty good the first go around and they’re certainly playing well.”The seventh-seeded Broncos were outclassed in their first playoff appearance since their Super Bowl-winning season in 2015.Denver’s offense essentially stalled after rookie Bo Nix capped a five-play opening drive with a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/1878504209831600380">43-yard touchdown pass to former college teammate Troy Franklin</a>. Nix finished 13 of 22 for 144 yards in an outing where Denver punted four times and turned the ball over on downs twice.The game served as a lesson in how much further the first-round pick and the Broncos still have to go after a promising season in which Nix threw 29 touchdown passes — two short of the NFL rookie record.“I’m really proud of these guys. We’ve overcome a lot and not really been counted in many games,” Nix said. “But to make the playoffs was a special moment for this group. It’s something we can build off of. ... Our goals are changing.”Meantime, the Broncos attacking defense was kept at bay by an Allen-led attack that was more than content in gaining small chunks of yards on lengthy time-consuming drives. The Broncos, who had an NFL-leading 63 sacks this seasons, sacked Allen just twice in an game where the Bills punted once.“Who got punched in the mouth?” Bills edge rusher Greg Rousseau asked, dismissively, regarding the Broncos scoring 2:24 into the game.“It really was just a message to ourselves,” Rousseau said. “We know who we are week after week, and what we’re capable of and what we’re supposed to do out there. That’s what it’s all about.”Though the Bills didn't force a takeaway, they made impactful plays in limiting the Broncos to convert just two of nine third down opportunities.And then there was Cam Lewis' diving tackle in shoving running back Jaleel McLaughlin out of bounds for no gain on fourth-and-2 at the Buffalo 14 early in the fourth quarter.With Buffalo leading 13-7, Allen broke the game open with his touchdown pass to Johnson with 3:06 left in the third quarter. The score held up following a replay review, which showed Johnson’s foot touching out of bounds but after he secured the ball.“You tell me it’s complete, I’m going to sign up for it every week,” McDermott said in placing his faith in Allen to convert on fourth down. “You guys know that. I trust him and I believe in him.”Allen's touchdown to Samuel came on Buffalo's next possession.Cook became Buffalo’s first player to top 100 yards rushing in a playoff game since Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas had 158 yards rushing in a 1995 wild-card playoff win over Miami. Allen increased his playoff total to 23 passing touchdowns, breaking the franchise record of 21 held by Hall of Famer Jim Kelly.<h2>Up next</h2>Broncos: offseason.Bills: Host the Ravens in a matchup of two quarterbacks selected in the first round of the 2018 draft.

🏈 Josh Allen leads balanced offense as Bills dominate Broncos for wild-card win

AP Sports Summary for January 12th, 2025:

Jackson and Henry lead the way as the Ravens run over the rival Steelers 28-14 in the AFC playoffs

BALTIMORE (AP) — Lamar Jackson threw for two touchdowns in a flawless first half, Derrick Henry scored twice while leading Baltimore's devastating running game, and the Ravens beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-14 to advance to the second round of the AFC playoffs. The Ravens move on to face either Buffalo or Houston after jumping out to a 21-0 halftime lead and holding on against their AFC North rivals. Baltimore had a 19-2 advantage in first downs in the first half, when the Ravens produced touchdown drives of 95, 85 and 90 yards, Henry ran for 186 yards, and Baltimore outrushed the Steelers 299-29. It was the most yards rushing allowed by Pittsburgh in a playoff game.

Texans intercept Herbert a career-high 4 times in a 32-12 win over Chargers in wild-card playoff

HOUSTON (AP) — Eric Murray returned one of Justin Herbert's career-high four interceptions for a touchdown, C.J. Stroud threw a TD pass and the Houston Texans rolled past the Los Angeles Chargers 32-12 in a wild-card playoff game. It's the second straight year Stroud and the Texans (11-7) won in the first round after they beat Cleveland last season. Herbert threw just three interceptions in the regular season and had never thrown more than two in a game before facing a Texans secondary led by AP All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley, who grabbed two Saturday.

Texans get 2 points on blocked extra point return vs. Chargers, 1st in NFL playoff history

HOUSTON (AP) — Houston's D'Angelo Ross returned a blocked extra point for two points in the fourth quarter of the Texans wild-card playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers. It was the first such play in NFL postseason history. The play came after Ladd McConkey scored on an 86-yard reception early in the fourth quarter. Cameron Dicker's extra point attempt was blocked by Denico Autry. Dicker tried to knock the ball down, but it bounced off his hands and Ross grabbed it and returned it for the score that pushed Houston's lead to 25-12. The NFL began awarding two points for an extra point returned to the end zone in 2015.

Clear skies and clear minds: Rams regroup in Arizona to prepare for playoff game vs. Vikings

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Everything seemed pretty normal for the Los Angeles Rams during practice at their temporary home on a beautiful afternoon in suburban Phoenix. The music was blaring Saturday, coaches shouting, footballs flying and even some palm trees swaying in the background to give it a Southern California vibe. Running back Kyren Williams said the Rams also had clear minds. The Rams are preparing for Monday's NFL playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings at the practice facility of their division rival Arizona Cardinals. They made their way to the desert Friday nights, escaping from days of devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

Ohio State, Notre Dame to meet for title, long after upset losses

Two upset losses stood out among the rest in college football this season. Notre Dame suffered one of them. Ohio State the other. In years past, that might have been enough to knock both teams out of the hunt for a national title. This year, with the debut of the 12-team playoff, those two teams will play for it. The Buckeyes defeated Texas 28-14 on Friday night to set up a Jan. 20 meeting against the Fighting Irish. Ohio State hasn't lost since it fell 13-10 to Michigan in November. Notre Dame hasn't lost since it fell 16-14 to Northern Illinois way back in September.

Another bitter loss in 'The Game' didn't keep Ohio State from getting a national title shot

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Ohio State this time gets the chance to play for the national title after another bitter loss to its biggest rival. The Buckeyes are coming off a win over Texas in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl that came six weeks after ending the regular season with a home loss to Michigan. Now they play Notre Dame on January 20 in Atlanta. The Cotton Bowl wasn't a semifinal game last season when Ohio State lost while still feeling the sting of a loss in the regular-season finale to the Wolverines that ended its hopes for Big Ten and national titles after being undefeated until that point.

Zheng wins indoors as Day 1 of the Australian Open is disrupted by rain

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen made the most of the indoor conditions under a roof at Rod Laver Arena to advance to the second round of the Australian Open in straight sets while it poured with rain outside. In her first match on Melbourne Park's main court since her loss in last year's final to Aryna Sabalekna, Zheng advanced 7-6 (3), 6-1 over 20-year-old qualifier Anca Todoni. They had just finished the pre-match formalities when play was delayed by a few minutes so that the roof could be closed. It was one of three matches that continued under cover. Tournament organizers suspended play on all outside courts until later in the afternoon.

Novak Djokovic stands alone at the Australian Open now that Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer retired

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — There is just one member of the Big Three left in men's tennis. Novak Djokovic stands alone from a golden generation now that Rafael Nadal has joined Roger Federer in retirement. Djokovic is scheduled to begin his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open on Monday when he plays 19-year-old American Nishesh Basavareddy, who recently announced he was leaving Stanford University to turn pro. The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam tournament of 2025 — and the first major championship to be held since Nadal played his final match in November. Federer retired in 2022.

Steelers and coach Mike Tomlin end season on 5-game skid and make another early playoff exit

BALTIMORE (AP) — Unable to reverse the negative momentum of a late-season fade, the Pittsburgh Steelers disappeared from the playoffs with a humbling loss to their fiercest rival. Pittsburgh was eliminated by the Baltimore Ravens, who rolled to a 28-14 victory on Saturday night. It was the Steelers' fifth straight loss, including a four-game skid to end the regular season. Pittsburgh's strength this season was its defense. The unit was consistently effective in shutting down the run and notched 33 takeaways, tied for the NFL lead. In this game, however, the Steelers were trampled by star running back Derrick Henry and quarterback Lamar Jackson.

J.J. Spaun takes the lead at Sony Open with a wide-open chase in the wind of Waialae

HONOLULU (AP) — J.J. Spaun finished with a birdie for a 65 and has a one-shot lead going into the final round of the Sony Open. As usual, it should be a sprint to the finish at windy Waialae. Stephen Jaeger had the low round of the tournament with a 62. That took him from a tie for 42nd to one shot out of the lead and a part of the final group. Also one shot behind were Eric Cole and Patrick Fishburn. Fourteen players were within three shots of the lead. Fishburn had a chance to pull away until a few bogeys.

		Charlotte	at	L.A. Clippers	10:30 p.m.	(Postponed)

		San Antonio	at	L.A. Lakers	10:30 p.m.	(Postponed)

Final	(5)Alabama	94	(10)Texas A&amp;M	88	

Final	(6)Kentucky	95	(14)Mississippi St.	90	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Sunday, January 12th, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Sunday, January 12th, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/63Xn0yhWAOhP1TnCEKXmPy?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for January 12th, 2025:Jackson and Henry lead the way as the Ravens run over the rival Steelers 28-14 in the AFC playoffsBALTIMORE (AP) — Lamar Jackson threw for two touchdowns in a flawless first half, Derrick Henry scored twice while leading Baltimore's devastating running game, and the Ravens beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-14 to advance to the second round of the AFC playoffs. The Ravens move on to face either Buffalo or Houston after jumping out to a 21-0 halftime lead and holding on against their AFC North rivals. Baltimore had a 19-2 advantage in first downs in the first half, when the Ravens produced touchdown drives of 95, 85 and 90 yards, Henry ran for 186 yards, and Baltimore outrushed the Steelers 299-29. It was the most yards rushing allowed by Pittsburgh in a playoff game.Texans intercept Herbert a career-high 4 times in a 32-12 win over Chargers in wild-card playoffHOUSTON (AP) — Eric Murray returned one of Justin Herbert's career-high four interceptions for a touchdown, C.J. Stroud threw a TD pass and the Houston Texans rolled past the Los Angeles Chargers 32-12 in a wild-card playoff game. It's the second straight year Stroud and the Texans (11-7) won in the first round after they beat Cleveland last season. Herbert threw just three interceptions in the regular season and had never thrown more than two in a game before facing a Texans secondary led by AP All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley, who grabbed two Saturday.Texans get 2 points on blocked extra point return vs. Chargers, 1st in NFL playoff historyHOUSTON (AP) — Houston's D'Angelo Ross returned a blocked extra point for two points in the fourth quarter of the Texans wild-card playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers. It was the first such play in NFL postseason history. The play came after Ladd McConkey scored on an 86-yard reception early in the fourth quarter. Cameron Dicker's extra point attempt was blocked by Denico Autry. Dicker tried to knock the ball down, but it bounced off his hands and Ross grabbed it and returned it for the score that pushed Houston's lead to 25-12. The NFL began awarding two points for an extra point returned to the end zone in 2015.Clear skies and clear minds: Rams regroup in Arizona to prepare for playoff game vs. VikingsTEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Everything seemed pretty normal for the Los Angeles Rams during practice at their temporary home on a beautiful afternoon in suburban Phoenix. The music was blaring Saturday, coaches shouting, footballs flying and even some palm trees swaying in the background to give it a Southern California vibe. Running back Kyren Williams said the Rams also had clear minds. The Rams are preparing for Monday's NFL playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings at the practice facility of their division rival Arizona Cardinals. They made their way to the desert Friday nights, escaping from days of devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area.Ohio State, Notre Dame to meet for title, long after upset lossesTwo upset losses stood out among the rest in college football this season. Notre Dame suffered one of them. Ohio State the other. In years past, that might have been enough to knock both teams out of the hunt for a national title. This year, with the debut of the 12-team playoff, those two teams will play for it. The Buckeyes defeated Texas 28-14 on Friday night to set up a Jan. 20 meeting against the Fighting Irish. Ohio State hasn't lost since it fell 13-10 to Michigan in November. Notre Dame hasn't lost since it fell 16-14 to Northern Illinois way back in September.Another bitter loss in 'The Game' didn't keep Ohio State from getting a national title shotARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Ohio State this time gets the chance to play for the national title after another bitter loss to its biggest rival. The Buckeyes are coming off a win over Texas in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl that came six weeks after ending the regular season with a home loss to Michigan. Now they play Notre Dame on January 20 in Atlanta. The Cotton Bowl wasn't a semifinal game last season when Ohio State lost while still feeling the sting of a loss in the regular-season finale to the Wolverines that ended its hopes for Big Ten and national titles after being undefeated until that point.Zheng wins indoors as Day 1 of the Australian Open is disrupted by rainMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen made the most of the indoor conditions under a roof at Rod Laver Arena to advance to the second round of the Australian Open in straight sets while it poured with rain outside. In her first match on Melbourne Park's main court since her loss in last year's final to Aryna Sabalekna, Zheng advanced 7-6 (3), 6-1 over 20-year-old qualifier Anca Todoni. They had just finished the pre-match formalities when play was delayed by a few minutes so that the roof could be closed. It was one of three matches that continued under cover. Tournament organizers suspended play on all outside courts until later in the afternoon.Novak Djokovic stands alone at the Australian Open now that Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer retiredMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — There is just one member of the Big Three left in men's tennis. Novak Djokovic stands alone from a golden generation now that Rafael Nadal has joined Roger Federer in retirement. Djokovic is scheduled to begin his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open on Monday when he plays 19-year-old American Nishesh Basavareddy, who recently announced he was leaving Stanford University to turn pro. The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam tournament of 2025 — and the first major championship to be held since Nadal played his final match in November. Federer retired in 2022.Steelers and coach Mike Tomlin end season on 5-game skid and make another early playoff exitBALTIMORE (AP) — Unable to reverse the negative momentum of a late-season fade, the Pittsburgh Steelers disappeared from the playoffs with a humbling loss to their fiercest rival. Pittsburgh was eliminated by the Baltimore Ravens, who rolled to a 28-14 victory on Saturday night. It was the Steelers' fifth straight loss, including a four-game skid to end the regular season. Pittsburgh's strength this season was its defense. The unit was consistently effective in shutting down the run and notched 33 takeaways, tied for the NFL lead. In this game, however, the Steelers were trampled by star running back Derrick Henry and quarterback Lamar Jackson.J.J. Spaun takes the lead at Sony Open with a wide-open chase in the wind of WaialaeHONOLULU (AP) — J.J. Spaun finished with a birdie for a 65 and has a one-shot lead going into the final round of the Sony Open. As usual, it should be a sprint to the finish at windy Waialae. Stephen Jaeger had the low round of the tournament with a 62. That took him from a tie for 42nd to one shot out of the lead and a part of the final group. Also one shot behind were Eric Cole and Patrick Fishburn. Fourteen players were within three shots of the lead. Fishburn had a chance to pull away until a few bogeys.AP-ScorecardTODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Houston	at	Atlanta	3 p.m.	(Postponed)		Charlotte	at	L.A. Clippers	10:30 p.m.	(Postponed)		San Antonio	at	L.A. Lakers	10:30 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Phoenix	114	Utah	106	Final	Detroit	123	Toronto	114	Final	Memphis	127	Minnesota	125	Final	Miami	119	Portland	98	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal OT	Boston	4	Florida	3	Final	Ottawa	5	Pittsburgh	0	Final	Seattle	6	Buffalo	2	Final	Columbus	2	St. Louis	1	Final	Winnipeg	3	Colorado	0	Final	Vancouver	3	Toronto	0	Final OT	New Jersey	3	Tampa Bay	2	Final	Edmonton	4	Chicago	3	Final	Philadelphia	6	Anaheim	0	Final SO	Dallas	2	Montreal	1	Final	Washington	4	Nashville	1	Final	N-Y Islanders	2	Utah	1	Final	Minnesota	3	San Jose	1	Final	N-Y Rangers	2	Vegas	1	Final	Calgary	2	Los Angeles	1	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	(1)Tennessee	74	Texas	70	Final	(2)Auburn	66	South Carolina	63	Final	(3)Iowa St.	85	Texas Tech	84	Final	(4)Duke	86	Notre Dame	78	Final	(5)Alabama	94	(10)Texas A&amp;M	88	Final	(6)Kentucky	95	(14)Mississippi St.	90	Final	(8)Florida	71	Arkansas	63	Final	(9)UConn	68	Georgetown	60	Final	(11)Kansas	54	Cincinnati	40	Final	(12)Houston	87	Kansas St.	57	Final	Southern Cal	82	(13)Illinois	72	Final	Georgia	72	(17)Oklahoma	62	Final	(18)Gonzaga	88	Washington St.	75	Final	(19)Memphis	74	East Carolina	70	Final	(23)Mississippi	77	LSU	65	Final	(25)Utah St.	81	Boise St.	79	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Sunday

PRATT, Kan. — The Dragons (11-5, 7-3) were without leading scorer Quez Thornton (16.5 ppg) Saturday at the Beaver Dome and found themselves down 15 points early.

Hunter Vaughn hit three triples in the first half as Pratt (8-7, 4-5) took a 30-15 lead with just under nine minutes to play in the first stanza.

Hutchinson put on a 24-5 run of its own to cut the lead to 39-35 with a little more than a minute to play in the opening frame.

Mikhail Abdul-Hamid hit four triples in the first half and scored 12 of his total 15 in the first 20 minutes.

Hutchinson went into the locker room down five.

The Dragons snagged their first lead of the game on Abdul-Hamid's fifth triple with 15:16 to go.

D.J. Dudley scored 12 of his 13 in the second half as the Dragons outscored the Beavers 49-34 in the game's final 20 minutes.

Khalil Arnold posted 22 points off the bench. Bobby Cannon added 14 in reserve play.

The Dragons return to the Sports Arena Jan. 15 to face Seward County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736644859409.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT, Kan. — The Dragons (11-5, 7-3) were without leading scorer Quez Thornton (16.5 ppg) Saturday at the Beaver Dome and found themselves down 15 points early.Hunter Vaughn hit three triples in the first half as Pratt (8-7, 4-5) took a 30-15 lead with just under nine minutes to play in the first stanza.Hutchinson put on a 24-5 run of its own to cut the lead to 39-35 with a little more than a minute to play in the opening frame.Mikhail Abdul-Hamid hit four triples in the first half and scored 12 of his total 15 in the first 20 minutes.Hutchinson went into the locker room down five.The Dragons snagged their first lead of the game on Abdul-Hamid's fifth triple with 15:16 to go.D.J. Dudley scored 12 of his 13 in the second half as the Dragons outscored the Beavers 49-34 in the game's final 20 minutes.Khalil Arnold posted 22 points off the bench. Bobby Cannon added 14 in reserve play.FINAL: Hutchinson 87 Pratt 77Hutchinson has now won five straight.The Dragons return to the Sports Arena Jan. 15 to face Seward County.

🏀 MBB: Dragons erase double-digit road deficit

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Emanuel Sharp scored 15 points, Joseph Tugler had 13 points and 10 rebounds, and No. 12 Houston used two big first-half runs to build a 22-point halftime lead in an 87-57 blowout of Kansas State on Saturday.

LJ Cryer and Ja'Vier Francis added 11 points apiece for the Cougars, who cruised to their eighth straight victory in their first trip to Manhattan since 1971. Houston beat the Wildcats by 22 at home last season in their first game as Big 12 foes.

The Cougars (12-3, 4-0) used runs of 16-2 and 18-3 to take a 46-24 halftime lead. Kansas State (7-8, 1-3) managed to close to 60-46 with just under 10 minutes to go, but the Cougars scored the next 12 points to put the game away.

Brendan Hausen hit five 3-pointers and had 15 points for the Wildcats, who were outrebounded 44-20 and outscored 52-18 in the paint. Max Jones added 13 points and four assists.

Houston held its previous seven opponents to 55 points or fewer. But against the Wildcats, the Cougars also showed they could score efficiently from anywhere on the floor.

Kansas State has been prone to game-deciding runs. It was a 15-0 spurt by Oklahoma State to end the first half in a 79-66 loss last week, and it was the Cougars' two big runs in the first half Saturday that doomed the Wildcats.

The Wildcats led 9-5 in the opening minutes when Sharp hit his first 3-pointer. That sent the Cougars on their 16-2 run over more than six minutes that resulted in a double-digit lead they never relinquished.

The Cougars did not turn over the ball until there was 13:03 left. They finished with five turnovers for the game.

Houston plays No. 21 West Virginia on Wednesday night. Kansas State plays Texas Tech on Tuesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736646229453.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Emanuel Sharp scored 15 points, Joseph Tugler had 13 points and 10 rebounds, and No. 12 Houston used two big first-half runs to build a 22-point halftime lead in an 87-57 blowout of Kansas State on Saturday.LJ Cryer and Ja'Vier Francis added 11 points apiece for the Cougars, who cruised to their eighth straight victory in their first trip to Manhattan since 1971. Houston beat the Wildcats by 22 at home last season in their first game as Big 12 foes.The Cougars (12-3, 4-0) used runs of 16-2 and 18-3 to take a 46-24 halftime lead. Kansas State (7-8, 1-3) managed to close to 60-46 with just under 10 minutes to go, but the Cougars scored the next 12 points to put the game away.Brendan Hausen hit five 3-pointers and had 15 points for the Wildcats, who were outrebounded 44-20 and outscored 52-18 in the paint. Max Jones added 13 points and four assists.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Houston held its previous seven opponents to 55 points or fewer. But against the Wildcats, the Cougars also showed they could score efficiently from anywhere on the floor.Kansas State has been prone to game-deciding runs. It was a 15-0 spurt by Oklahoma State to end the first half in a 79-66 loss last week, and it was the Cougars' two big runs in the first half Saturday that doomed the Wildcats.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Wildcats led 9-5 in the opening minutes when Sharp hit his first 3-pointer. That sent the Cougars on their 16-2 run over more than six minutes that resulted in a double-digit lead they never relinquished.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Cougars did not turn over the ball until there was 13:03 left. They finished with five turnovers for the game.<h2>Up next</h2>Houston plays No. 21 West Virginia on Wednesday night. Kansas State plays Texas Tech on Tuesday night.___

🏀 Houston rides 2 big first-half runs, routs Kansas State 

PRATT, Kan. — No. 1 Hutchinson (16-0, 10-0) used two different 15-0 scoring runs in the first half to race by Pratt (6-9, 1-8) Saturday afternoon in the Beaver Dome.

Hailey Jackson led Hutchinson in scoring for the fifth-straight game. She scored 18 of her game-high 20 in the first half.

The Dragons held the Beavers to four points in the second quarter and took a 52-12 lead into halftime.

Katie Duncan hit three triples off the bench for Hutchinson and finished with 15 points.

Landon Forbes made 5-of-7 to finish with 15 points.

The Beavers turned the ball over 25 times. The Dragons scored 35 points off those miscues.

Pratt had three players score in double digits, led by La'Kyra Johnson's 14.

John Ontjes now has 499 wins as the Dragons run their win-streak to 53 games, 38 in conference play.

Hutchinson returns to the Sports Arena Jan. 15 to face Seward County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736644819112.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT, Kan. — No. 1 Hutchinson (16-0, 10-0) used two different 15-0 scoring runs in the first half to race by Pratt (6-9, 1-8) Saturday afternoon in the Beaver Dome.Hailey Jackson led Hutchinson in scoring for the fifth-straight game. She scored 18 of her game-high 20 in the first half.The Dragons held the Beavers to four points in the second quarter and took a 52-12 lead into halftime.Katie Duncan hit three triples off the bench for Hutchinson and finished with 15 points.Landon Forbes made 5-of-7 to finish with 15 points.The Beavers turned the ball over 25 times. The Dragons scored 35 points off those miscues.Pratt had three players score in double digits, led by La'Kyra Johnson's 14.FINAL: Hutchinson 92 Pratt 47John Ontjes now has 499 wins as the Dragons run their win-streak to 53 games, 38 in conference play.Hutchinson returns to the Sports Arena Jan. 15 to face Seward County.

🏀 WBB: No. 1 Dragons power past Pratt

CINCINNATI (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for his eighth double-double of the season. as No. 11 Kansas pulled away from Cincinnati for a 54-40 victory on Saturday.

The matchup between two of the nation's top defensive teams resulted in a low scoring affair. The Jayhawks held the Bearcats scoreless for more than six minutes in the second half to spark a 14-0 run.

The 40 points are the fewest for the Bearcats in head coach Wes Miller's four seasons.

Zeke Mayo scored eight points for Kansas (12-3, 3-1 Big 12) which has won three straight.

Dillon Mitchell scored 10 points and Arrinten Page and Dan Skillings Jr. each had nine for Cincinnati (10-5, 0-4 Big 12).

Both teams shot under 40% and were a combined 3 of 18 from 3-point range in the first half. The Bearcats led 25-24 at halftime behind eight points from Mitchell.

A Bearcats turnover resulted in a dunk by Moore off a lob from Mayo to put Kansas ahead 46-37 with 3:48 left.

Kansas: The Jayhawks' defense helped them rally again from a halftime deficit to win. They trailed by six points at home to Arizona State then allowed only 13 second-half points in a 74-55 win. They trailed by one at halftime on Saturday then allowed only 15 second-half points to pull away.

Cincinnati: The Bearcats, who've relied heavily on the 3-point shot, averaging 24 attempts per game, are now 16 of 60 (26 percent) from 3-point range in the past three games.

Page missed a dunk that would have made it a one-point game, and Shakeel Moore's layup put Kansas ahead 42-37 with 5:26 left. Kansas would outscore the Bearcats 12-3 from that point on.

Kansas scored 16 points off 12 Bearcats turnovers.

Kansas plays at Iowa State on Wednesday, while Cincinnati plays at Colorado on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736630339255.png" alt="Photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>CINCINNATI (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for his eighth double-double of the season. as No. 11 Kansas pulled away from Cincinnati for a 54-40 victory on Saturday.The matchup between two of the nation's top defensive teams resulted in a low scoring affair. The Jayhawks held the Bearcats scoreless for more than six minutes in the second half to spark a 14-0 run.The 40 points are the fewest for the Bearcats in head coach Wes Miller's four seasons.Zeke Mayo scored eight points for Kansas (12-3, 3-1 Big 12) which has won three straight.Dillon Mitchell scored 10 points and Arrinten Page and Dan Skillings Jr. each had nine for Cincinnati (10-5, 0-4 Big 12).Both teams shot under 40% and were a combined 3 of 18 from 3-point range in the first half. The Bearcats led 25-24 at halftime behind eight points from Mitchell.A Bearcats turnover resulted in a dunk by Moore off a lob from Mayo to put Kansas ahead 46-37 with 3:48 left.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks' defense helped them rally again from a halftime deficit to win. They trailed by six points at home to Arizona State then allowed only 13 second-half points in a 74-55 win. They trailed by one at halftime on Saturday then allowed only 15 second-half points to pull away.Cincinnati: The Bearcats, who've relied heavily on the 3-point shot, averaging 24 attempts per game, are now 16 of 60 (26 percent) from 3-point range in the past three games.<h2>Key moment</h2>Page missed a dunk that would have made it a one-point game, and Shakeel Moore's layup put Kansas ahead 42-37 with 5:26 left. Kansas would outscore the Bearcats 12-3 from that point on.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas scored 16 points off 12 Bearcats turnovers.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas plays at Iowa State on Wednesday, while Cincinnati plays at Colorado on Wednesday.

🏀 Dickinson's 8th double-double lifts KU over Cincinnati

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Bill McCartney, who coached Colorado to its only football national championship in 1990, has died. He was 84.

The charismatic figure known as Coach Mac died Friday night “after a courageous journey with dementia,” according to a family statement. His family announced in 2016 that he had been diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's.

“Coach Mac touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and enduring legacy as a leader, mentor and advocate for family, community and faith,” the family said in its statement. “As a trailblazer and visionary, his impact was felt both on and off the field, and his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he inspired.”

McCartney remains the winningest coach in Colorado history, with a record of 93-55-5. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.

“I am very saddened at the passing of Coach Mac,” said Colorado athletic director Rick George, who remained lifelong friends with McCartney after he hired George as his recruiting coordinator in 1987. “Coach Mac was an incredible man who taught me about the importance of faith, family and being a good husband, father and grandfather. He instilled discipline and accountability to all of us who worked and played under his leadership."

McCartney led Colorado to its best season in 1990, when the team finished 11-1-1 and beat Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl to clinch the national title. That season included a win at Missouri where the Buffaloes scored the winning touchdown on a “fifth down” as time expired — one of the biggest blunders in college football history.

The chain crew didn’t flip the marker from second to third down and the officials failed to notice. On fourth down — fifth in actuality — Charles Johnson scored to keep Colorado’s national title hopes afloat. Asked later if he would consider forfeiting the game, McCartney pointed to poor field conditions and didn’t think it was a fair test.

McCartney coached at Colorado from 1982-94, retiring early to spend more time with his wife, Lyndi, who died in 2013. Following his retirement, he worked full time at Promise Keepers, a ministry he started in 1990 after converting from Catholicism and whose aim is to encourage “godly men.”

The organization became a flash point in state politics, advocating unsuccessfully that gays be denied the designation of “protected class,” a position by the group that drew campus protests. He left as Promise Keepers’ president in 2003 because of his wife’s health but returned five years later.

As a football coach, McCartney’s impact at Colorado was immense. During a six-year span in the late ’80s and early ’90s, his teams were right up there with the powers of the time. McCartney coached Colorado to three Big Eight titles, 10 consecutive winning seasons in league competition and a 58-29-4 mark in conference play, all still school bests.

His 1989 squad went 11-1 and lost to Notre Dame 21-6 in the Orange Bowl. That set the groundwork for a national championship team that featured quarterbacks Darian Hagan and Charles Johnson, tailback Eric Bieniemy, and a stalwart defense that included Alfred Williams,&nbsp;<a href="https://cubuffs.com/honors/cu-athletic-hall-of-fame/greg-biekert/143">Greg Biekert</a>, Chad Brown and Kanavis McGhee.

“A hall of fame coach but somehow a better man and human being,” Brown&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/chadbrown94/status/1877952879794778560">wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.</a>&nbsp;“Love you Coach!”

Added&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BigAlRadio/status/1877963947032371583">Williams in a post on X:</a>&nbsp;“His legacy is firmly built on love, character, integrity, hope, and faith. I will always thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to have him in my life. Thank you Coach for loving on all of us.”

To think, McCartney nearly chose a basketball coaching career.

Born in Riverview, Michigan, McCartney played center and linebacker at the University of Missouri, where he met his wife. He later coached basketball and football at a high school in Dearborn, Michigan. His teams were good, too, each capturing the state title in 1973.

He caught the eye of Michigan football coach Bo Schembechler, who wanted McCartney to join his staff at Michigan. If that weren’t enough, Michigan basketball coach Johnny Orr urged him to join his staff.

McCartney couldn’t decide. His wife gave him some simple advice — follow his heart.

He stepped into the world of college football.

McCartney learned under Schembechler for eight seasons, until an opportunity came up to guide his own team. When the late Chuck Fairbanks left Colorado to become involved with the New Jersey Generals in the upstart United States Football League, McCartney asked Schembechler if the Hall of Fame coach would put in a good word for him.

Schembechler’s backing carried a lot of weight, and then-Colorado athletic director Eddie Crowder gave McCartney the position.

It was a rough start for McCartney with only seven victories in his first three seasons, including a 1-10 finish in 1984. Then things started to turn.

His last season with the Buffaloes was 1994, when the team went 11-1 behind a roster that included Kordell Stewart, Michael Westbrook and the late Rashaan Salaam. That season featured the “Miracle in Michigan,” with Westbrook hauling in a 64-yard TD catch from Stewart on a Hail Mary as time expired in a road win over the Wolverines. Salaam also rushed for 2,055 yards and won the Heisman Trophy.

McCartney also groomed the next wave of coaches, mentoring assistants such as Gary Barnett, Jim Caldwell, Ron Dickerson, Gerry DiNardo, Karl Dorrell, Jon Embree, Les Miles, Rick Neuheisel, Bob Simmons, Lou Tepper, Ron Vanderlinden and John Wristen.

In recent years, McCartney got to watch grandson Derek play defensive line at Colorado. Derek’s father, Shannon Clavelle, was a defensive lineman for Colorado from 1992-94 before playing a few seasons in the NFL. Derek’s brother, T.C. McCartney, was a quarterback at LSU and is the son of late Colorado quarterback Sal Aunese, who played for Bill McCartney in 1987 and ’88 before being diagnosed with stomach cancer in 1989 and dying six months later at 21.

Growing up, Derek McCartney used to go next door to his grandfather’s house to listen to his stories. He never tired of them.

Derek soaked up the tales about Salaam winning the Heisman Trophy and how Colorado beat Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl to cement the national title. His grandfather had a picture of the famous play at Michigan and a button to push to hear the broadcast audio.

When playing for Colorado, hardly a day would go by when someone didn't ask Derek if he was somehow related to the coach.

“I like when that happens,” Derek said.

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Bill McCartney, who coached Colorado to its only football national championship in 1990, has died. He was 84.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A legend of the game. A legacy that will live forever. Rest in Peace, Coach Mac 🪽<a href="https://t.co/sSXySmmlZb">https://t.co/sSXySmmlZb</a> <a href="https://t.co/RKZqHvIZdl">pic.twitter.com/RKZqHvIZdl</a>&mdash; Colorado Buffaloes (@CUBuffs) <a href="https://twitter.com/CUBuffs/status/1877943660479685022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The charismatic figure known as Coach Mac died Friday night “after a courageous journey with dementia,” according to a family statement. His family announced in 2016 that he had been diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's.“Coach Mac touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and enduring legacy as a leader, mentor and advocate for family, community and faith,” the family said in its statement. “As a trailblazer and visionary, his impact was felt both on and off the field, and his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he inspired.”McCartney remains the winningest coach in Colorado history, with a record of 93-55-5. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.“I am very saddened at the passing of Coach Mac,” said Colorado athletic director Rick George, who remained lifelong friends with McCartney after he hired George as his recruiting coordinator in 1987. “Coach Mac was an incredible man who taught me about the importance of faith, family and being a good husband, father and grandfather. He instilled discipline and accountability to all of us who worked and played under his leadership."McCartney led Colorado to its best season in 1990, when the team finished 11-1-1 and beat Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl to clinch the national title. That season included a win at Missouri where the Buffaloes scored the winning touchdown on a “fifth down” as time expired — one of the biggest blunders in college football history.The chain crew didn’t flip the marker from second to third down and the officials failed to notice. On fourth down — fifth in actuality — Charles Johnson scored to keep Colorado’s national title hopes afloat. Asked later if he would consider forfeiting the game, McCartney pointed to poor field conditions and didn’t think it was a fair test.McCartney coached at Colorado from 1982-94, retiring early to spend more time with his wife, Lyndi, who died in 2013. Following his retirement, he worked full time at Promise Keepers, a ministry he started in 1990 after converting from Catholicism and whose aim is to encourage “godly men.”The organization became a flash point in state politics, advocating unsuccessfully that gays be denied the designation of “protected class,” a position by the group that drew campus protests. He left as Promise Keepers’ president in 2003 because of his wife’s health but returned five years later.As a football coach, McCartney’s impact at Colorado was immense. During a six-year span in the late ’80s and early ’90s, his teams were right up there with the powers of the time. McCartney coached Colorado to three Big Eight titles, 10 consecutive winning seasons in league competition and a 58-29-4 mark in conference play, all still school bests.His 1989 squad went 11-1 and lost to Notre Dame 21-6 in the Orange Bowl. That set the groundwork for a national championship team that featured quarterbacks Darian Hagan and Charles Johnson, tailback Eric Bieniemy, and a stalwart defense that included Alfred Williams,&nbsp;<a href="https://cubuffs.com/honors/cu-athletic-hall-of-fame/greg-biekert/143">Greg Biekert</a>, Chad Brown and Kanavis McGhee.“A hall of fame coach but somehow a better man and human being,” Brown&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/chadbrown94/status/1877952879794778560">wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.</a>&nbsp;“Love you Coach!”Added&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BigAlRadio/status/1877963947032371583">Williams in a post on X:</a>&nbsp;“His legacy is firmly built on love, character, integrity, hope, and faith. I will always thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to have him in my life. Thank you Coach for loving on all of us.”To think, McCartney nearly chose a basketball coaching career.Born in Riverview, Michigan, McCartney played center and linebacker at the University of Missouri, where he met his wife. He later coached basketball and football at a high school in Dearborn, Michigan. His teams were good, too, each capturing the state title in 1973.He caught the eye of Michigan football coach Bo Schembechler, who wanted McCartney to join his staff at Michigan. If that weren’t enough, Michigan basketball coach Johnny Orr urged him to join his staff.McCartney couldn’t decide. His wife gave him some simple advice — follow his heart.He stepped into the world of college football.McCartney learned under Schembechler for eight seasons, until an opportunity came up to guide his own team. When the late Chuck Fairbanks left Colorado to become involved with the New Jersey Generals in the upstart United States Football League, McCartney asked Schembechler if the Hall of Fame coach would put in a good word for him.Schembechler’s backing carried a lot of weight, and then-Colorado athletic director Eddie Crowder gave McCartney the position.It was a rough start for McCartney with only seven victories in his first three seasons, including a 1-10 finish in 1984. Then things started to turn.His last season with the Buffaloes was 1994, when the team went 11-1 behind a roster that included Kordell Stewart, Michael Westbrook and the late Rashaan Salaam. That season featured the “Miracle in Michigan,” with Westbrook hauling in a 64-yard TD catch from Stewart on a Hail Mary as time expired in a road win over the Wolverines. Salaam also rushed for 2,055 yards and won the Heisman Trophy.McCartney also groomed the next wave of coaches, mentoring assistants such as Gary Barnett, Jim Caldwell, Ron Dickerson, Gerry DiNardo, Karl Dorrell, Jon Embree, Les Miles, Rick Neuheisel, Bob Simmons, Lou Tepper, Ron Vanderlinden and John Wristen.In recent years, McCartney got to watch grandson Derek play defensive line at Colorado. Derek’s father, Shannon Clavelle, was a defensive lineman for Colorado from 1992-94 before playing a few seasons in the NFL. Derek’s brother, T.C. McCartney, was a quarterback at LSU and is the son of late Colorado quarterback Sal Aunese, who played for Bill McCartney in 1987 and ’88 before being diagnosed with stomach cancer in 1989 and dying six months later at 21.Growing up, Derek McCartney used to go next door to his grandfather’s house to listen to his stories. He never tired of them.Derek soaked up the tales about Salaam winning the Heisman Trophy and how Colorado beat Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl to cement the national title. His grandfather had a picture of the famous play at Michigan and a button to push to hear the broadcast audio.When playing for Colorado, hardly a day would go by when someone didn't ask Derek if he was somehow related to the coach.“I like when that happens,” Derek said.

Bill McCartney, who coached Colorado to its only football national championship has died

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Royals announced Friday that they have invited 23 players to Major League Spring Training in Surprise, Ariz.

Among the invitees are 10 pitchers, six catchers, five infielders and two outfielders.

Of the 23 invitees, 15 were originally signed or drafted by Kansas City: left-handed pitchers&nbsp;Austin Cox&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tyson Guerrero; right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;(koo-dur-nuh),&nbsp;Anthony Simonelli&nbsp;and&nbsp;Steven Zobac; catchers&nbsp;Kyle Hayes,&nbsp;Omar Hernández,&nbsp;Carter Jensen,&nbsp;Blake Mitchell&nbsp;and&nbsp;Luca Tresh; infielders&nbsp;Jac Caglianone&nbsp;(cag-lee-ohn),&nbsp;Tyler Tolbert&nbsp;and&nbsp;Javier Vaz&nbsp;(rhymes with jazz) and outfielders&nbsp;Gavin Cross&nbsp;and&nbsp;John Rave. There are five invitees who are returning to the organization in 2025, including right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Chandler Champlain,&nbsp;Andrew Hoffmann&nbsp;and&nbsp;Beck Way, catcher&nbsp;Brian O’Keefe&nbsp;and infielder&nbsp;Cam Devanney&nbsp;(duh-VAY-nee). Super utility player&nbsp;Cavan Biggio&nbsp;signed with Kansas City on Sunday and brings six Major League seasons of experience with him. He debuted with Toronto in 2019 and remained with them into 2024 before making appearances with the Dodgers and Braves to end the season. He is the son of Hall of Fame catcher/infielder&nbsp;Craig Biggio. Right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Taylor Clarke, who pitched for Kansas City from 2022-23, returns to the Royals after spending 2024 in the Brewers organization. There have been 34 players in Royals history to appear in at least 1 game, leave the organization and return to play in at least 1 game for the team, most recently done by left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Will Smith&nbsp;(2012-13, 2024). Right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Junior Fernández&nbsp;joins the Royals following big league stints with St. Louis (2019-22) and Pittsburgh (2022). He spent last season in Japan with the Chiba Lotte Marines.

2025 marks the first invitation to Major League Spring Training for 11 players, including Guerrero, Hoffmann, Kudrna, Simonelli, Zobac, Hayes, Hernández, Mitchell, Caglianone, Vaz and Cross, with all but Hoffmann being homegrown.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The first workout for Royals pitchers and catchers is Wednesday, Feb. 12. The first full squad workout is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694386651701.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Royals announced Friday that they have invited 23 players to Major League Spring Training in Surprise, Ariz. Among the invitees are 10 pitchers, six catchers, five infielders and two outfielders.Of the 23 invitees, 15 were originally signed or drafted by Kansas City: left-handed pitchers&nbsp;Austin Cox&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tyson Guerrero; right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;(koo-dur-nuh),&nbsp;Anthony Simonelli&nbsp;and&nbsp;Steven Zobac; catchers&nbsp;Kyle Hayes,&nbsp;Omar Hernández,&nbsp;Carter Jensen,&nbsp;Blake Mitchell&nbsp;and&nbsp;Luca Tresh; infielders&nbsp;Jac Caglianone&nbsp;(cag-lee-ohn),&nbsp;Tyler Tolbert&nbsp;and&nbsp;Javier Vaz&nbsp;(rhymes with jazz) and outfielders&nbsp;Gavin Cross&nbsp;and&nbsp;John Rave. There are five invitees who are returning to the organization in 2025, including right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Chandler Champlain,&nbsp;Andrew Hoffmann&nbsp;and&nbsp;Beck Way, catcher&nbsp;Brian O’Keefe&nbsp;and infielder&nbsp;Cam Devanney&nbsp;(duh-VAY-nee). Super utility player&nbsp;Cavan Biggio&nbsp;signed with Kansas City on Sunday and brings six Major League seasons of experience with him. He debuted with Toronto in 2019 and remained with them into 2024 before making appearances with the Dodgers and Braves to end the season. He is the son of Hall of Fame catcher/infielder&nbsp;Craig Biggio. Right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Taylor Clarke, who pitched for Kansas City from 2022-23, returns to the Royals after spending 2024 in the Brewers organization. There have been 34 players in Royals history to appear in at least 1 game, leave the organization and return to play in at least 1 game for the team, most recently done by left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Will Smith&nbsp;(2012-13, 2024). Right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Junior Fernández&nbsp;joins the Royals following big league stints with St. Louis (2019-22) and Pittsburgh (2022). He spent last season in Japan with the Chiba Lotte Marines. 2025 marks the first invitation to Major League Spring Training for 11 players, including Guerrero, Hoffmann, Kudrna, Simonelli, Zobac, Hayes, Hernández, Mitchell, Caglianone, Vaz and Cross, with all but Hoffmann being homegrown.&nbsp;&nbsp;The first workout for Royals pitchers and catchers is Wednesday, Feb. 12. The first full squad workout is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 17.

⚾ Royals announce invitees to spring training

Ohio State getting shot at 6th national title after 28-14 win over Texas in CFP semi Cotton Bowl

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Quinshon Judkins ran for two touchdowns before Jack Sawyer forced a fumble by his former roommate and Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers that he returned 83 yards for a touchdown with 2:13 left as Ohio State beat Texas 28-14 in the Cotton Bowl. The 13-2 Buckeyes advance for a shot at their sixth national title. Their semifinal victory came in the same stadium where they were champions in the debut of the College Football Playoff as a four-team format. Now they have the opportunity to be the winner again in the debut of the expanded 12-team field when they play Notre Dame on January 20.

Eagles QB Jalen Hurts clears concussion protocol and will start wild-card game against Green Bay

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts has cleared the NFL concussion protocol and will start for the Philadelphia Eagles in their NFC wild-card game Sunday against Green Bay. The Eagles quarterback hasn't played since he suffered a concussion and left a Dec. 22 game early against Washington. Coach Nick Sirianni said Friday that Hurts was out of the protocol and was "ready to roll" against the Packers. Hurts returned to practice this week. There are five phases in the concussion protocol, with the final one clearance by an independent neurological consultant.

Lamar Jackson repeats and Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are unanimous choices for AP All-Pro

Lamar Jackson beat out Josh Allen, and Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are unanimous choices for The Associated Press 2024 NFL All-Pro Team. Saquon Barkley received 48 of 50 first-place votes and Patrick Surtain II got 49 from a nationwide panel of media members who regularly cover the league. Jackson received 30 first-place votes to Allen's 18, making the team for the second straight year and third overall. The NFC-leading Lions had four players selected. They are wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, right tackle Penei Sewell, safety Kerby Joseph and punter Jack Fox. Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett earned his seventh nod while 49ers linebacker Fred Warner was chosen for the fourth time.

Browns QB Deshaun Watson reinjures Achilles, has surgery and will miss 'significant' time in 2025

CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson had surgery after rupturing his Achilles tendon for the second time in three months, a setback that could sideline him for the entire 2025 season. The team said Watson, who has played in just 19 games in three seasons with Cleveland due to an NFL suspension and injuries, felt discomfort in his ankle after "rolling" it while in Miami. Tests showed he re-ruptured the tendon, requiring another operation. The Browns said Friday in a statement that Watson is expected to miss "significant time" in 2025. Even before the setback, the team was expected to overhaul the QB position next season. Cleveland has the No. 2 overall pick in the draft.

LA Rams head for Arizona and a crucial playoff game with their minds on their fire-ravaged hometown

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams have been preparing for their biggest game of the season amid the catastrophic wildfires besieging their home area. The players and coaches tasked with separating football from real life are finding it difficult, but they are determined to meet the challenges on all fronts when they "host" the Minnesota Vikings at the Cardinals' State Farm Stadium on Monday night. Only a few Rams employees had been affected by the fires until Thursday afternoon, when the Kenneth Fire broke out a few miles from the team's training complex in suburban Woodland Hills, sending smoke high into the sky with alarming speed.

Lakers coach JJ Redick confirms his family's home was lost in the Pacific Palisades fire

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed his family lost its home in the raging wildfire in Pacific Palisades this week. Redick spoke about the fire's impact for the first time Friday after practice with the Lakers, whose scheduled game Saturday against San Antonio was postponed late Friday. Redick said the rented home burned down Tuesday while the Lakers were on the road in Dallas. Redick's wife and two sons were safely away from the neighborhood, but Redick drove into Pacific Palisades on Wednesday to see the fire's impact.

Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy share Sony Open lead

HONOLULU (AP) — Patrick Fishburn had a fast start at the Sony Open. Denny McCarthy overcame a sluggish start. All they share in common is being atop the leaderboard at Waialae going into the weekend. Fishburn had three straight birdies early and chipped in for another for a 65. McCarthy shot a 66 after overcoming a pair of missed short par putts. They were at 10-under 130 and had a one-shot lead over Kensei Hirate of Japan, Eric Cole and Paul Peterson. Those live leading players have never won on the PGA Tour. Hideki Matsuyama had a 69 and was six shots behind.

Australian Open 2025: Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have a real rivalry atop men's tennis

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — When Carlos Alcaraz is on court for a training session, perhaps working on his newly revamped service motion, he's doing so to buttress a game already good enough to claim four Grand Slam titles. He's also got his young rival, Jannik Sinner, in mind. No. 1 Sinner and No. 3 Alcaraz are setting themselves up at the top of men's tennis as the 2025 Slam season is set to start Sunday (Saturday EST) at the Australian Open. Sinner is the defending champion at Melbourne Park and is coming off a season with two major trophies. Alcaraz won the other two men's Slam events in 2024.

Australian Open 2025: How to watch on TV, betting odds and more to know

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Play in the year's first Grand Slam tennis tournament is scheduled to begin at the Australian Open on Sunday local time (Saturday EST) and will run for 15 days. The defending champions at the hard-court tournament are Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner. They are both ranked No. 1 and are the betting favorites at Melbourne Park this year. Sabalenka will be in action during the night session on Day 1 in Rod Laver Arena against 2017 U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens. The 2025 women's and men's singles champions each will earn about $2.15 million. This is the first Grand Slam tournament since Rafael Nadal's retirement.

		(5)Alabama	at	(10)Texas A&amp;M	8 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Saturday, January 11th, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Saturday, January 11th, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>Sports Summary for January 11th, 2025:<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/30Sc3KW4cxPMztGzo8Tyrb?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Ohio State getting shot at 6th national title after 28-14 win over Texas in CFP semi Cotton BowlARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Quinshon Judkins ran for two touchdowns before Jack Sawyer forced a fumble by his former roommate and Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers that he returned 83 yards for a touchdown with 2:13 left as Ohio State beat Texas 28-14 in the Cotton Bowl. The 13-2 Buckeyes advance for a shot at their sixth national title. Their semifinal victory came in the same stadium where they were champions in the debut of the College Football Playoff as a four-team format. Now they have the opportunity to be the winner again in the debut of the expanded 12-team field when they play Notre Dame on January 20.Ohio State, Notre Dame to meet for title, long after upset lossesTwo upset losses stood out among the rest in college football this season. Notre Dame suffered one of them. Ohio State the other. In years past, that might have been enough to knock both teams out of the hunt for a national title. This year, with the debut of the 12-team playoff, those two teams will play for it. The Buckeyes defeated Texas 28-14 on Friday night to set up a Jan. 20 meeting against the Fighting Irish. Ohio State hasn't lost since it fell 13-10 to Michigan in November. Notre Dame hasn't lost since it fell 16-14 to Northern Illinois way back in September.Eagles QB Jalen Hurts clears concussion protocol and will start wild-card game against Green BayPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts has cleared the NFL concussion protocol and will start for the Philadelphia Eagles in their NFC wild-card game Sunday against Green Bay. The Eagles quarterback hasn't played since he suffered a concussion and left a Dec. 22 game early against Washington. Coach Nick Sirianni said Friday that Hurts was out of the protocol and was "ready to roll" against the Packers. Hurts returned to practice this week. There are five phases in the concussion protocol, with the final one clearance by an independent neurological consultant.Lamar Jackson repeats and Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are unanimous choices for AP All-ProLamar Jackson beat out Josh Allen, and Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are unanimous choices for The Associated Press 2024 NFL All-Pro Team. Saquon Barkley received 48 of 50 first-place votes and Patrick Surtain II got 49 from a nationwide panel of media members who regularly cover the league. Jackson received 30 first-place votes to Allen's 18, making the team for the second straight year and third overall. The NFC-leading Lions had four players selected. They are wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, right tackle Penei Sewell, safety Kerby Joseph and punter Jack Fox. Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett earned his seventh nod while 49ers linebacker Fred Warner was chosen for the fourth time.Browns QB Deshaun Watson reinjures Achilles, has surgery and will miss 'significant' time in 2025CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson had surgery after rupturing his Achilles tendon for the second time in three months, a setback that could sideline him for the entire 2025 season. The team said Watson, who has played in just 19 games in three seasons with Cleveland due to an NFL suspension and injuries, felt discomfort in his ankle after "rolling" it while in Miami. Tests showed he re-ruptured the tendon, requiring another operation. The Browns said Friday in a statement that Watson is expected to miss "significant time" in 2025. Even before the setback, the team was expected to overhaul the QB position next season. Cleveland has the No. 2 overall pick in the draft.LA Rams head for Arizona and a crucial playoff game with their minds on their fire-ravaged hometownLOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams have been preparing for their biggest game of the season amid the catastrophic wildfires besieging their home area. The players and coaches tasked with separating football from real life are finding it difficult, but they are determined to meet the challenges on all fronts when they "host" the Minnesota Vikings at the Cardinals' State Farm Stadium on Monday night. Only a few Rams employees had been affected by the fires until Thursday afternoon, when the Kenneth Fire broke out a few miles from the team's training complex in suburban Woodland Hills, sending smoke high into the sky with alarming speed.Lakers coach JJ Redick confirms his family's home was lost in the Pacific Palisades fireEL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed his family lost its home in the raging wildfire in Pacific Palisades this week. Redick spoke about the fire's impact for the first time Friday after practice with the Lakers, whose scheduled game Saturday against San Antonio was postponed late Friday. Redick said the rented home burned down Tuesday while the Lakers were on the road in Dallas. Redick's wife and two sons were safely away from the neighborhood, but Redick drove into Pacific Palisades on Wednesday to see the fire's impact.Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy share Sony Open leadHONOLULU (AP) — Patrick Fishburn had a fast start at the Sony Open. Denny McCarthy overcame a sluggish start. All they share in common is being atop the leaderboard at Waialae going into the weekend. Fishburn had three straight birdies early and chipped in for another for a 65. McCarthy shot a 66 after overcoming a pair of missed short par putts. They were at 10-under 130 and had a one-shot lead over Kensei Hirate of Japan, Eric Cole and Paul Peterson. Those live leading players have never won on the PGA Tour. Hideki Matsuyama had a 69 and was six shots behind.Australian Open 2025: Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have a real rivalry atop men's tennisMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — When Carlos Alcaraz is on court for a training session, perhaps working on his newly revamped service motion, he's doing so to buttress a game already good enough to claim four Grand Slam titles. He's also got his young rival, Jannik Sinner, in mind. No. 1 Sinner and No. 3 Alcaraz are setting themselves up at the top of men's tennis as the 2025 Slam season is set to start Sunday (Saturday EST) at the Australian Open. Sinner is the defending champion at Melbourne Park and is coming off a season with two major trophies. Alcaraz won the other two men's Slam events in 2024.Australian Open 2025: How to watch on TV, betting odds and more to knowMELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Play in the year's first Grand Slam tennis tournament is scheduled to begin at the Australian Open on Sunday local time (Saturday EST) and will run for 15 days. The defending champions at the hard-court tournament are Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner. They are both ranked No. 1 and are the betting favorites at Melbourne Park this year. Sabalenka will be in action during the night session on Day 1 in Rod Laver Arena against 2017 U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens. The 2025 women's and men's singles champions each will earn about $2.15 million. This is the first Grand Slam tournament since Rafael Nadal's retirement.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Indiana	108	Golden State	96	Final	New Orleans	123	Philadelphia	115	Final	Milwaukee	109	Orlando	106	Final	Sacramento	114	Boston	97	Final	Oklahoma City	126	New York	101	Final	Chicago	138	Washington	105	Final	Denver	124	Brooklyn	105	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Detroit	5	Chicago	3	Final	Carolina	2	Vancouver	0	Final OT	Montreal	3	Washington	2	Final OT	Los Angeles	2	Winnipeg	1	Final	Utah	2	San Jose	1	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALLFinal	(6)Ohio St.	28	(4)Texas	14	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	Maryland	79	(22)UCLA	61	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Houston	at	Atlanta	3 p.m.			Utah	at	Phoenix	5 p.m.			Toronto	at	Detroit	7 p.m.			Memphis	at	Minnesota	8 p.m.			Miami	at	Portland	10 p.m.			Charlotte	at	L.A. Clippers	10:30 p.m.	(Postponed)		San Antonio	at	L.A. Lakers	10:30 p.m.	(Postponed)___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Boston	at	Florida	1 p.m.			Ottawa	at	Pittsburgh	4 p.m.			Seattle	at	Buffalo	4 p.m.			Anaheim	at	Philadelphia	7 p.m.			Colorado	at	Winnipeg	7 p.m.			Columbus	at	St. Louis	7 p.m.			Dallas	at	Montreal	7 p.m.			Edmonton	at	Chicago	7 p.m.			Tampa Bay	at	New Jersey	7 p.m.			Vancouver	at	Toronto	7 p.m.			Washington	at	Nashville	8 p.m.			N-Y Islanders	at	Utah	9 p.m.			Los Angeles	at	Calgary	10 p.m.			Minnesota	at	San Jose	10 p.m.			N-Y Rangers	at	Vegas	10 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		(1)Tennessee	at	Texas	6 p.m.			(2)Auburn	at	South Carolina	1 p.m.			(3)Iowa St.	at	Texas Tech	2 p.m.			Notre Dame	at	(4)Duke	12 p.m.			(5)Alabama	at	(10)Texas A&amp;M	8 p.m.			(6)Kentucky	at	(14)Mississippi St.	8:30 p.m.			(8)Florida	at	Arkansas	4 p.m.			(9)UConn	at	Georgetown	2 p.m.			(11)Kansas	at	Cincinnati	2 p.m.			(12)Houston	at	Kansas St.	6 p.m.			Southern Cal	at	(13)Illinois	12 p.m.			(17)Oklahoma	at	Georgia	6 p.m.			Washington St.	at	(18)Gonzaga	9 p.m.			East Carolina	at	(19)Memphis	2 p.m.			LSU	at	(23)Mississippi	6 p.m.			Boise St.	at	(25)Utah St.	9 p.m.	___