WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge put together another 6-1 win over the Springfield Cardinals at Riverfront Stadium. Wichita outhit Springfield 12-3 throughout the contest, with every man who came to the plate for the hosts recording a hit.

After a leadoff single and a hit and run put men on the corners for the Wind Surge in the bottom of the first,&nbsp;Ricardo Olivar&nbsp;pulled his first hit back in the lineup into left field to bring around&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario.

Cory Lewis&nbsp;retired the first eight batters he faced, the latter four all coming on strikeouts, in the orange and black Monrovians uniforms. He’d keep the Cardinals hitless through his first four and one-third innings of work and later strand the first runner to keep the 1-0 advantage halfway through the ballgame.

Jake Rucker&nbsp;pushed across two more runs for the Wichita on a single to left field in the home half of the fifth. After the knock, Rucker stands third in Wind Surge history in individual single-season hits at 116.&nbsp;Dalton Shuffield&nbsp;later left the yard on a three-run blast, his fourth of the season, into the Springfield bullpen in right-center to finish a fifth-inning five-spot for a 6-0 lead.

Nathan Church mustered the lone run for the Cardinals in the top of the eighth on a groundout to second before&nbsp;Mason Fox&nbsp;retired six in a row to secure the 6-1 final score for the second straight game.

Lewis improved to 2-4 on the year with Wichita after being granted the win. He gave up just one hit in five and one-third innings with three walks and six strikeouts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725182771419.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge put together another 6-1 win over the Springfield Cardinals at Riverfront Stadium. Wichita outhit Springfield 12-3 throughout the contest, with every man who came to the plate for the hosts recording a hit.After a leadoff single and a hit and run put men on the corners for the Wind Surge in the bottom of the first,&nbsp;Ricardo Olivar&nbsp;pulled his first hit back in the lineup into left field to bring around&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario.Cory Lewis&nbsp;retired the first eight batters he faced, the latter four all coming on strikeouts, in the orange and black Monrovians uniforms. He’d keep the Cardinals hitless through his first four and one-third innings of work and later strand the first runner to keep the 1-0 advantage halfway through the ballgame.Jake Rucker&nbsp;pushed across two more runs for the Wichita on a single to left field in the home half of the fifth. After the knock, Rucker stands third in Wind Surge history in individual single-season hits at 116.&nbsp;Dalton Shuffield&nbsp;later left the yard on a three-run blast, his fourth of the season, into the Springfield bullpen in right-center to finish a fifth-inning five-spot for a 6-0 lead.Nathan Church mustered the lone run for the Cardinals in the top of the eighth on a groundout to second before&nbsp;Mason Fox&nbsp;retired six in a row to secure the 6-1 final score for the second straight game.Lewis improved to 2-4 on the year with Wichita after being granted the win. He gave up just one hit in five and one-third innings with three walks and six strikeouts.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge kept the hot bats going Saturday in win over Springfield

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw two touchdown passes and Kansas State got contributions from all three phases of the game to lead the No. 18 Wildcats to a season-opening 41-6 win over UT Martin on Saturday night.

The Wildcats’ defense dominated early and often, allowing the Wildcats’ offense to find its footing. Kansas State limited the Skyhawks to 134 total yards (2.4 yards per play).

K-State also befuddled UT Martin’s passing attack by sacking Kinkead Dent three times. The Wildcats finished with four sacks, led by sophomore defensive end Tobi Osunsanmi’s 1 1/2.

Meanwhile, the Wildcats’ offense had its moments behind Johnson, a sophomore who became K-State’s second-youngest quarterback to start a season opener.

He made his mark in the first quarter when he connected with tight end Brayden Loftin for a 23-yard touchdown to cap a seven-play, 80-yard drive that gave K-State an early 7-0 lead.

Johnson finished 14 of 21 for 153 yards and two TDs with an interception. He also ran for 37 yards on three carries.

DJ Giddens gouged UT Martin’s defense with a team-high 124 yards on 13 carries, averaging 9.5 yards per attempt. As a team, the Wildcats totaled 283 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries.

K-State’s special teams took center stage in the first half when the Skyhawks were forced to punt deep in their own territory. Ty Bowman burst through the right side of the line of scrimmage at the snap and blocked UT Martin’s Jaren Van Winkle’s punt. Colby McCalister scooped the loose ball at the 2-yard line and took it into the end zone to give the Wildcats a 14-0 lead.

Dent got the Skyhawks moving on their fifth possession. He took advantage of a missed sack opportunity by the K-State defense on the drive. Facing a third-and-19 situation, Dent slipped a tackle attempt and rolled to his left before throwing across his body to an open Trevonte Rucker, who got behind the Wildcats defense for a 45-yard gain.

The Wildcats stiffened, however, and the Skyhawks settled for Van Winkle’s 34-yard field goal. Van Winkle added a 31-yarder in the third quarter.

But outside of the 45-yard gain, the Wildcats limited UT Martin’s big plays and kept the Skyhawks out of the end zone en route to the win.

Young’s interception came on a play during which he stared down his intended receiver — Giddens — down the middle of the field. Young’s pass resulted in Chris Martin easily picking off the ball to end a Wildcats drive in Skyhawks territory.

UT Martin had no semblance of a run game. A total of nine Skyhawks rushers combined for 36 yards on 38 carries, averaging a paltry 0.9 yards per attempt.

K-State’s season is off to a good start with a win against a team they should beat. The victory, however, isn’t likely to see the Wildcats make a move up the polls.

K-State: On the road on Sept. 7 to play Tulane.

UT Martin: Travels to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on Sept. 7 to take on Southeast Missouri State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725162021912.png" alt="AP Photo/Charlie Riedel" />
 <figcaption>AP Photo/Charlie Riedel</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw two touchdown passes and Kansas State got contributions from all three phases of the game to lead the No. 18 Wildcats to a season-opening 41-6 win over UT Martin on Saturday night.The Wildcats’ defense dominated early and often, allowing the Wildcats’ offense to find its footing. Kansas State limited the Skyhawks to 134 total yards (2.4 yards per play).K-State also befuddled UT Martin’s passing attack by sacking Kinkead Dent three times. The Wildcats finished with four sacks, led by sophomore defensive end Tobi Osunsanmi’s 1 1/2.Meanwhile, the Wildcats’ offense had its moments behind Johnson, a sophomore who became K-State’s second-youngest quarterback to start a season opener.He made his mark in the first quarter when he connected with tight end Brayden Loftin for a 23-yard touchdown to cap a seven-play, 80-yard drive that gave K-State an early 7-0 lead.Johnson finished 14 of 21 for 153 yards and two TDs with an interception. He also ran for 37 yards on three carries.DJ Giddens gouged UT Martin’s defense with a team-high 124 yards on 13 carries, averaging 9.5 yards per attempt. As a team, the Wildcats totaled 283 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries.K-State’s special teams took center stage in the first half when the Skyhawks were forced to punt deep in their own territory. Ty Bowman burst through the right side of the line of scrimmage at the snap and blocked UT Martin’s Jaren Van Winkle’s punt. Colby McCalister scooped the loose ball at the 2-yard line and took it into the end zone to give the Wildcats a 14-0 lead.Dent got the Skyhawks moving on their fifth possession. He took advantage of a missed sack opportunity by the K-State defense on the drive. Facing a third-and-19 situation, Dent slipped a tackle attempt and rolled to his left before throwing across his body to an open Trevonte Rucker, who got behind the Wildcats defense for a 45-yard gain.The Wildcats stiffened, however, and the Skyhawks settled for Van Winkle’s 34-yard field goal. Van Winkle added a 31-yarder in the third quarter.But outside of the 45-yard gain, the Wildcats limited UT Martin’s big plays and kept the Skyhawks out of the end zone en route to the win.<h2>THE TAKEAWAY</h2>Young’s interception came on a play during which he stared down his intended receiver — Giddens — down the middle of the field. Young’s pass resulted in Chris Martin easily picking off the ball to end a Wildcats drive in Skyhawks territory.UT Martin had no semblance of a run game. A total of nine Skyhawks rushers combined for 36 yards on 38 carries, averaging a paltry 0.9 yards per attempt.<h2>POLL IMPLICATIONS</h2>K-State’s season is off to a good start with a win against a team they should beat. The victory, however, isn’t likely to see the Wildcats make a move up the polls.<h2>UP NEXT</h2>K-State: On the road on Sept. 7 to play Tulane.UT Martin: Travels to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on Sept. 7 to take on Southeast Missouri State University.

🏈 No. 18 K-State cruises past UT Martin in season opener

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After three-straight disappointing seasons at the Terry Masterson Twilight Classic, the Hutchinson Community College men’s cross country team made quite a statement on Friday night at Fun Valley.

With three runners placing in the top seven, the Blue Dragons finished as team runner-up at the ninth-annual Masterson Twilight, the Blue Dragons’ first Top 2 finish since 2019.

The Blue Dragons finished with 64 points to team champion Butler’s 34. Wichita State and Fort Hays Tech-Northwest (former Northwest Tech) tied for third with 76 points. The Blue Dragons had their fourth all-time Top 3 Masterson finish and second runner-up team placing, the first since 2019.

Before Friday’s second-place team finish, the Dragons no scored at the Masterson in 2023 and 2021 and finished 10th in 2022. Those three years came after winning the 2018 Masterson and finishing third in 2019.

Blue Dragon freshman Dennis Cheruiyot led the Blue Dragons with a second-place finish in a time of 19:51.3, the second fastest by a Blue Dragon on the Masterson Twilight’s four-mile course. Only Andrew Kibet ran a better Masterson time, running a 19:70.2 at the 2018 Masterton. Cheruiyot was 4.3 seconds off the winning pace of Butler’s Emmanuel Otim.

Cheruiyot posted the 11th-fastest time in Terry Masterson Twilight men’s history.

Blue Dragon freshman Cornelius Kogo placed fifth with a time of 20:12.3, which ranked 16th overall in Masterson history.

Freshman Titus Kiprotich was seventh overall in a time of 20:32.6.

Other Blue Dragons to figure into the team score were freshman Kaden Lohrentz, who placed 24th in 21:48.5. Sophomore David Ultreras was 26th in 21:55.5.

Freshman Blake Yoder was the only other Blue Dragon to run on Friday. He placed 40th in 23:21.3.

The Blue Dragons will next race at the Arkansas Chili Pepper Festival on September 28 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725108102735.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Community College" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — After three-straight disappointing seasons at the Terry Masterson Twilight Classic, the Hutchinson Community College men’s cross country team made quite a statement on Friday night at Fun Valley.With three runners placing in the top seven, the Blue Dragons finished as team runner-up at the ninth-annual Masterson Twilight, the Blue Dragons’ first Top 2 finish since 2019.The Blue Dragons finished with 64 points to team champion Butler’s 34. Wichita State and Fort Hays Tech-Northwest (former Northwest Tech) tied for third with 76 points. The Blue Dragons had their fourth all-time Top 3 Masterson finish and second runner-up team placing, the first since 2019.Before Friday’s second-place team finish, the Dragons no scored at the Masterson in 2023 and 2021 and finished 10th in 2022. Those three years came after winning the 2018 Masterson and finishing third in 2019.Blue Dragon freshman Dennis Cheruiyot led the Blue Dragons with a second-place finish in a time of 19:51.3, the second fastest by a Blue Dragon on the Masterson Twilight’s four-mile course. Only Andrew Kibet ran a better Masterson time, running a 19:70.2 at the 2018 Masterton. Cheruiyot was 4.3 seconds off the winning pace of Butler’s Emmanuel Otim.Cheruiyot posted the 11th-fastest time in Terry Masterson Twilight men’s history.Blue Dragon freshman Cornelius Kogo placed fifth with a time of 20:12.3, which ranked 16th overall in Masterson history.Freshman Titus Kiprotich was seventh overall in a time of 20:32.6.Other Blue Dragons to figure into the team score were freshman Kaden Lohrentz, who placed 24th in 21:48.5. Sophomore David Ultreras was 26th in 21:55.5.Freshman Blake Yoder was the only other Blue Dragon to run on Friday. He placed 40th in 23:21.3.The Blue Dragons will next race at the Arkansas Chili Pepper Festival on September 28 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Dragon men are Masterson runner-up

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College freshman cross country runner Faith Jepchirchir had quite a Blue Dragon debut on Friday night, doing so on her home course at the Fun Valley Sports Complex.

Jepchirchir became the first Blue Dragon women’s runner to win the Terry Masterson Twilight Classic.

Posting the top Blue Dragon time in event history of 18:17.00, the ninth-fastest time overall in Masterson history, Jepchirchir won the race by 16.5 seconds over second-place runner Elizabeth Hernandez of Butler.  Jepchirchir dominated the final mile of the three-mile race.

The previous best individual Blue Dragon finish in the Terry Masterson Twilight Classic was second by Lisayo Ewoi in 2018. The previous fastest time was by Serenity Larson in 2022 of 18:21.92.

Jepchirchir and sophomores Jordyn Picolet and Abigail Grantham were top 15 finishers and led the Blue Dragons to a team runner-up finish at the 2024 Masterson Twilight Classic, their fifth Top 3 team finish in Masterson history.

Wichita State won the team championship with all five scoring runners finishing within the top 15. The Shockers had 42 team points to the Blue Dragons’ 62. Butler was third with 74.

Both Picolet and Grantham made huge improvements over their freshman Masterson performances to help lead the Blue Dragons

Picolet placed sixth overall with a time of 18:43.50. That mark was an improvement of 2 minutes, 8.31 seconds over her freshman season.

Grantham posted a time of 19:47.70 to place 14th individually. Grantham’s time improved by 1 minutes, 29.2 seconds over her time last year.

Other Blue Dragons to figure into the team scoring were freshman Ava Lemaster and sophomore Laura Avila. Lemaster placed 19th in 20:10.9. Avila was 23rd in 20:33.9.

The Blue Dragons will next compete at the Arkansas Chili Pepper Festival on September 28 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725107761874.jpeg" alt="Faith Jepchirchir-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Community College" />
 <figcaption>Faith Jepchirchir-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College freshman cross country runner Faith Jepchirchir had quite a Blue Dragon debut on Friday night, doing so on her home course at the Fun Valley Sports Complex.Jepchirchir became the first Blue Dragon women’s runner to win the Terry Masterson Twilight Classic.Posting the top Blue Dragon time in event history of 18:17.00, the ninth-fastest time overall in Masterson history, Jepchirchir won the race by 16.5 seconds over second-place runner Elizabeth Hernandez of Butler. Jepchirchir dominated the final mile of the three-mile race.The previous best individual Blue Dragon finish in the Terry Masterson Twilight Classic was second by Lisayo Ewoi in 2018. The previous fastest time was by Serenity Larson in 2022 of 18:21.92.Jepchirchir and sophomores Jordyn Picolet and Abigail Grantham were top 15 finishers and led the Blue Dragons to a team runner-up finish at the 2024 Masterson Twilight Classic, their fifth Top 3 team finish in Masterson history.Wichita State won the team championship with all five scoring runners finishing within the top 15. The Shockers had 42 team points to the Blue Dragons’ 62. Butler was third with 74.Both Picolet and Grantham made huge improvements over their freshman Masterson performances to help lead the Blue DragonsPicolet placed sixth overall with a time of 18:43.50. That mark was an improvement of 2 minutes, 8.31 seconds over her freshman season.Grantham posted a time of 19:47.70 to place 14th individually. Grantham’s time improved by 1 minutes, 29.2 seconds over her time last year.Other Blue Dragons to figure into the team scoring were freshman Ava Lemaster and sophomore Laura Avila. Lemaster placed 19th in 20:10.9. Avila was 23rd in 20:33.9.The Blue Dragons will next compete at the Arkansas Chili Pepper Festival on September 28 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Faith Jepchirchir is first Dragon to win Masterson Twilight Classic

MCCOOK, Nebraska —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Community College volleyball team played well into the night on Friday at the McCook Invitational, but the long day’s effort proved worth the Blue Dragons’ time.

Hutchinson started its nearly 6 1/2-hour day with a five-set upset victory over No. 9 Indian Hills at the Graff Events Center, defeating the Warriors 25-16, 25-21, 13-25, 18-25, 15-10.

Then led by freshmen Viktoria Graf’s and Addy Foster’s historical performance, the Blue Dragons rallied from a first-set loss to Lamar and defeated the Runnin’ Lopes in five sets 18-25, 25-21, 25-19, 20-25, 15-2.

The Blue Dragons improved to 4-3 with the victories. Hutchinson will play Western Nebraska at 11 a.m. and North Platte at 3 p.m. on Saturday to close out the McCook Invitational.

Graf became the second Blue Dragon player in program history to have 30 kills in a match on Friday against Lamar – the first since 2019 – to led the Blue Dragons to a five-set victory over Lamar in Friday’s second match.

Graf’s career-high 30 kills came on .409 hitting. She added four block assists.

Katelyn Elstun is the only other Blue Dragon in program history to have 30 or more kills in a match, doing so in a five-set win over MSU-West Plains on September 27, 2019 at the Sports Arena. Graf’s .409 attack percentage is the sixth-best individual mark in Blue Dragon history in a five-set match.

Foster became the just fourth Blue Dragon in team history to reach the 30-dig plateau in a match with 34 digs against the Lopes. Foster tied Raychel Reed, Alissa Bautista and Samantha Lackey for fourth-most digs in a single match with 34 digs.

The Blue Dragons also made a bit of team history by allowing the fewest points in a fifth set in since the advent of the rally scoring system in 2001. The previous low was five points allowed, which occurred three times – against Barton  on September 8, 2010, against USU-Eastern on September 9, 2016 on and against Jefferson on February 6, 2021.

On Tiana Simmons’ service rotation, the Blue Dragons scored the first nine points of the fifth set. The Dragons closed the match out on two back-row attacks for kills by Graf.

The Blue Dragons are now 18-9 all-time in the Delice Downing era in five-set matches.

Simmons closed with 11 kills, followed by Atlyn Proctor with nine and McKenzie Murphy with a season-high six kills. Murphy also had five block assists.

Sophomore setter Shelbi Wilson has 28 assists and two services aces. Freshman setter Ellie Suber had 19 assists. Foster and freshman Angela Ruepena had two aces each. Freshman defensive specialist Siani Sanchez tallied 12 digs.

The Blue Dragons took a 2-0 lead in sets after rallying from eight points down in the second set to win 25-21. Ninth-ranked Indian Hills won the second and third sets decisively before the Blue Dragons pulled away in the fifth for a 15-10 win, earning a victory over a nationally ranked opponent.

Suber set a balanced offensive attack led by Proctor’s season-high 16 kills and Graf’s 12 kills. Murphy finished with seven kills and three blocks.

Suber tallied 45 assists with three block assists and two service aces.

Foster led the Blue Dragon back row with 20 digs against the Warriors. Freshman Brooke Galey had eight digs. Wilson had a season-high three service aces.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666203033392.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationMCCOOK, Nebraska —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Community College volleyball team played well into the night on Friday at the McCook Invitational, but the long day’s effort proved worth the Blue Dragons’ time.Hutchinson started its nearly 6 1/2-hour day with a five-set upset victory over No. 9 Indian Hills at the Graff Events Center, defeating the Warriors 25-16, 25-21, 13-25, 18-25, 15-10.Then led by freshmen Viktoria Graf’s and Addy Foster’s historical performance, the Blue Dragons rallied from a first-set loss to Lamar and defeated the Runnin’ Lopes in five sets 18-25, 25-21, 25-19, 20-25, 15-2.The Blue Dragons improved to 4-3 with the victories. Hutchinson will play Western Nebraska at 11 a.m. and North Platte at 3 p.m. on Saturday to close out the McCook Invitational.LAMAR RECAPGraf became the second Blue Dragon player in program history to have 30 kills in a match on Friday against Lamar – the first since 2019 – to led the Blue Dragons to a five-set victory over Lamar in Friday’s second match.Graf’s career-high 30 kills came on .409 hitting. She added four block assists.Katelyn Elstun is the only other Blue Dragon in program history to have 30 or more kills in a match, doing so in a five-set win over MSU-West Plains on September 27, 2019 at the Sports Arena. Graf’s .409 attack percentage is the sixth-best individual mark in Blue Dragon history in a five-set match.Foster became the just fourth Blue Dragon in team history to reach the 30-dig plateau in a match with 34 digs against the Lopes. Foster tied Raychel Reed, Alissa Bautista and Samantha Lackey for fourth-most digs in a single match with 34 digs.The Blue Dragons also made a bit of team history by allowing the fewest points in a fifth set in since the advent of the rally scoring system in 2001. The previous low was five points allowed, which occurred three times – against Barton on September 8, 2010, against USU-Eastern on September 9, 2016 on and against Jefferson on February 6, 2021.On Tiana Simmons’ service rotation, the Blue Dragons scored the first nine points of the fifth set. The Dragons closed the match out on two back-row attacks for kills by Graf.The Blue Dragons are now 18-9 all-time in the Delice Downing era in five-set matches.Simmons closed with 11 kills, followed by Atlyn Proctor with nine and McKenzie Murphy with a season-high six kills. Murphy also had five block assists.Sophomore setter Shelbi Wilson has 28 assists and two services aces. Freshman setter Ellie Suber had 19 assists. Foster and freshman Angela Ruepena had two aces each. Freshman defensive specialist Siani Sanchez tallied 12 digs.INDIAN HILLS RECAPThe Blue Dragons took a 2-0 lead in sets after rallying from eight points down in the second set to win 25-21. Ninth-ranked Indian Hills won the second and third sets decisively before the Blue Dragons pulled away in the fifth for a 15-10 win, earning a victory over a nationally ranked opponent.Suber set a balanced offensive attack led by Proctor’s season-high 16 kills and Graf’s 12 kills. Murphy finished with seven kills and three blocks.Suber tallied 45 assists with three block assists and two service aces.Foster led the Blue Dragon back row with 20 digs against the Warriors. Freshman Brooke Galey had eight digs. Wilson had a season-high three service aces.

🏐 Dragons win pair of five setters to open McCook Invite

Avery Johnson was recruited to be the starting quarterback at Kansas State, and one of the nation's top dual-threats did nothing to dissuade Wildcats coach Chris Klieman from turning the team over to him after last season.

Just look at what Johnson did in limited opportunities as a freshman.

On the road against Texas Tech, he replaced Will Howard and went 8 of 9 for 77 yards while running 13 times for 90 yards and five touchdowns. Against Houston, he was 5 of 6 for 46 yards and another score. And when Howard decided to transfer to Ohio State, Johnson accounted for three TDs while leading the Wildcats to a win in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

Now, it is up to Johnson to help the No. 18 Wildcats reach some lofty expectations beginning Saturday night, when Tennessee-Martin arrives at Bill Snyder Family Stadium for the season-opener for both teams.

“It's a different feeling for sure,” Johnson said, “but I think mentally it doesn't change anything. Prepare like you're the starter. Nothing changes. It's just that whenever the offense takes the field for the first time, I'm going to be out there.”

He will have plenty of talent surrounding him.

While the Wildcats had to rebuild an offensive line that lost multiple starters to the NFL, they also return wide receivers Jayce Brown, Keagan Johnson, Tre Spivey and Jadon Jackson. In the backfield is D.J. Giddens, who ran for 1,226 yards and 10 scores last season, and he'll be splitting reps this time with dynamic Colorado transfer Dylan Edwards.

Throw in a veteran defense and it's easy to see why the Wildcats were picked to challenge Utah and Oklahoma State for the Big 12 title this season, and why some think they could make a run to the College Football Playoff.

“Yeah, there's excitement. There's really good momentum from the end of the season, and excitement of maybe expectations,” Klieman said, “but forget about expectations, man. Just go about your business daily, and stack day after day after day. Don't talk about championships, don't talk about what we can be. Talk about what we can be today.”

The Skyhawks may play at the FCS level, but they are accustomed to winning. They are coming off three consecutive conference titles, including the inaugural Big South-OVC championship last season. Jason Simpson is beginning his 19th season in charge, so they have some continuity, and safety Oshae Baker is one of the best defensive players in the nation.

“It’s been a grind. It’s been three weeks of camp. I’m really pleased with these guys,” Simpson said. “They’ve done a good job. Had some guys dinged up but that’s part of it as you prepare.”

Kansas State has not always rolled over FCS opponents. It beat Southeast Missouri State 45-0 last year, and South Dakota 34-0 the year before that. But the Wildcats also scuffled to a 31-23 victory over Southern Illinois in 2021 and a 27-24 win over South Dakota in 2018, the last season of Bill Snyder's second tenure as their coach.

The Wildcats lost one of the nation's most productive running backs in Deuce Vaughn two years ago, and Giddens — who was lightly recruited out of high school — filled the role with aplomb. But the powerful running back, who added 29 catches for 323 yards last season, should be much fresher this season with Edwards sharing the load. The speedster from Derby, Kansas, ran 76 times for 321 yards and a touchdown while catching 36 passes for 299 yards and four more scores for Colorado.

The Wildcats return eight starters from last season, including five of their top six tacklers. That includes linebacker Austin Moore and safety Marques Sigle, who had 63 tackles apiece. Both have been voted team captains for this season.

The Wildcats lost offensive coordinator Collin Klein, who was a Heisman Trophy finalist at quarterback for them, to the same job at Texas A&amp;M. They replaced him by promoting offensive line coach Conor Riley to co-offensive coordinator and bringing aboard Matt Wells, who went 57-51 as the head coach at Utah State and Texas Tech.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703818069685.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson (2) looks for a receiver as he scrambles from the pocket during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game against North Carolina State, Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson (2) looks for a receiver as he scrambles from the pocket during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game against North Carolina State, Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)</figcaption>
 </figure>DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterAvery Johnson was recruited to be the starting quarterback at Kansas State, and one of the nation's top dual-threats did nothing to dissuade Wildcats coach Chris Klieman from turning the team over to him after last season.Just look at what Johnson did in limited opportunities as a freshman.On the road against Texas Tech, he replaced Will Howard and went 8 of 9 for 77 yards while running 13 times for 90 yards and five touchdowns. Against Houston, he was 5 of 6 for 46 yards and another score. And when Howard decided to transfer to Ohio State, Johnson accounted for three TDs while leading the Wildcats to a win in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.Now, it is up to Johnson to help the No. 18 Wildcats reach some lofty expectations beginning Saturday night, when Tennessee-Martin arrives at Bill Snyder Family Stadium for the season-opener for both teams.“It's a different feeling for sure,” Johnson said, “but I think mentally it doesn't change anything. Prepare like you're the starter. Nothing changes. It's just that whenever the offense takes the field for the first time, I'm going to be out there.”He will have plenty of talent surrounding him.While the Wildcats had to rebuild an offensive line that lost multiple starters to the NFL, they also return wide receivers Jayce Brown, Keagan Johnson, Tre Spivey and Jadon Jackson. In the backfield is D.J. Giddens, who ran for 1,226 yards and 10 scores last season, and he'll be splitting reps this time with dynamic Colorado transfer Dylan Edwards.Throw in a veteran defense and it's easy to see why the Wildcats were picked to challenge Utah and Oklahoma State for the Big 12 title this season, and why some think they could make a run to the College Football Playoff.“Yeah, there's excitement. There's really good momentum from the end of the season, and excitement of maybe expectations,” Klieman said, “but forget about expectations, man. Just go about your business daily, and stack day after day after day. Don't talk about championships, don't talk about what we can be. Talk about what we can be today.”<h2>More on UT-Martin</h2>The Skyhawks may play at the FCS level, but they are accustomed to winning. They are coming off three consecutive conference titles, including the inaugural Big South-OVC championship last season. Jason Simpson is beginning his 19th season in charge, so they have some continuity, and safety Oshae Baker is one of the best defensive players in the nation.“It’s been a grind. It’s been three weeks of camp. I’m really pleased with these guys,” Simpson said. “They’ve done a good job. Had some guys dinged up but that’s part of it as you prepare.”<h2>FCS foes</h2>Kansas State has not always rolled over FCS opponents. It beat Southeast Missouri State 45-0 last year, and South Dakota 34-0 the year before that. But the Wildcats also scuffled to a 31-23 victory over Southern Illinois in 2021 and a 27-24 win over South Dakota in 2018, the last season of Bill Snyder's second tenure as their coach.<h2>In the backfield</h2>The Wildcats lost one of the nation's most productive running backs in Deuce Vaughn two years ago, and Giddens — who was lightly recruited out of high school — filled the role with aplomb. But the powerful running back, who added 29 catches for 323 yards last season, should be much fresher this season with Edwards sharing the load. The speedster from Derby, Kansas, ran 76 times for 321 yards and a touchdown while catching 36 passes for 299 yards and four more scores for Colorado.<h2>Getting defensive</h2>The Wildcats return eight starters from last season, including five of their top six tacklers. That includes linebacker Austin Moore and safety Marques Sigle, who had 63 tackles apiece. Both have been voted team captains for this season.<h2>Offensive change</h2>The Wildcats lost offensive coordinator Collin Klein, who was a Heisman Trophy finalist at quarterback for them, to the same job at Texas A&amp;M. They replaced him by promoting offensive line coach Conor Riley to co-offensive coordinator and bringing aboard Matt Wells, who went 57-51 as the head coach at Utah State and Texas Tech.

🏈 Avery Johnson takes reins of No. 18 Kansas State as season begins Saturday vs UT-Martin

HOUSTON (AP) — Framber Valdez pitched seven no-hit innings and Jose Altuve hit a game-ending RBI double in the ninth to lift the Houston Astros to a 3-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.

The game was tied at 2-all when Jake Meyers singled off James McArthur (5-6) with one out in the ninth. There were two outs when Altuve bounced his double off the wall in left field to send Meyers home and set off a wild celebration.

“He always finds a way to wow us and that’s another big swing by Jose Altuve,” manager Joe Espada said.

The Royals trailed 2-0 and had just one hit when Bobby Witt Jr. reached on an error by shortstop Jeremy Peña to start the ninth. With one out, Paul DeJong sent a slider from Josh Hader (7-7) into the Crawford Boxes in left field to tie it.

Valdez was pulled after throwing 98 pitches, 60 for strikes, with seven strikeouts, three walks and a hit batter. He wasn't upset that Espada removed him from the game with the no-hitter intact.

“He made the decision that I was done there and I agreed,” Valdez said through an interpreter. “The most important thing was that we won the game.”

Espada raved about his starter's performance.

“That curveball, the sinker kept that all-righty lineup off-balance,” Espada said. “His stuff is so good. Efficient, composed, going after hitters, getting big outs.”

Bryan Abreu took over to start the eighth and retired Michael Massey on a fly ball before pinch-hitter MJ Melendez grounded out. Pinch-hitter Kyle Isbel then grounded a single to left field for the Royals' first hit.

The 30-year-old Valdez threw a no-hitter against Cleveland on Aug. 1, 2023. He nearly had a second one earlier this month before Corey Seager homered with two outs in the ninth inning of a 4-2 win over Texas on Aug. 6.

It was the second time this week the Astros took a no-hit bid into the eighth inning. Spencer Arrighetti allowed his first hit to start the eighth in a 10-0 win over the NL East-leading Phillies on Wednesday.

Valdez sailed through the first four innings but needed some help from his defense in the fifth. Freddy Fermin hit a sharp grounder to Peña, who fielded it and made a leaping throw that bounced to Victor Caratini at first just before Fermin’s foot hit the bag.

Valdez smiled and pointed at Peña after the play. Nick Loftin grounded out to end the inning.

Valdez hit Perez with a pitch with one out in the seventh before striking out DeJong. Fermin walked, prompting a visit from pitching coach Josh Miller. Valdez then struck out Loftin to end his night.

Espada said it was a tough decision to remove Valdez but that he thought it was best because of how hard he had to work in the seventh inning.

Ben Gamel led off Houston’s third with his first home run this season, a shot to center field.

Yainer Diaz singled with one out in the eighth before a double by Caratini. The Astros made it 2-0 when Diaz scored on a sacrifice fly by Peña.

Seth Lugo permitted six hits and a run with nine strikeouts in six innings.

“He had it all working,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “Seven innings of one-run baseball against that team is a phenomenal effort.”

Royals: 1B Vinnie Pasquantino will miss the rest of the regular season after breaking his right thumb while trying to make a play Thursday night. The injury will require surgery and the expected recovery time is 6-to-8 weeks, meaning Pasquantino could potentially return if the Royals make a playoff run. ... Reliever Lucas Erceg was injured on the same play when he tried to barehand a comebacker. His hand was bruised and swollen Friday but Quatraro said the injury wasn’t serious.

Astros: 3B Alex Bregman was out of the lineup Friday with elbow soreness. ... RF Kyle Tucker (right shin bruise) took live batting practice Friday for the first time since fouling a ball off his leg June 3. Tucker said he’s feeling good and believes he can return soon. He added that he hopes not to go on a minor league rehabilitation assignment and instead prepare for his return by doing more live BP and possibly simulated games.

Houston LHP Yusei Kikuchi (6-9, 4.39 ERA) opposes LHP Cole Ragans (10-8, 3.28) when the series continues Saturday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725072957125.jpeg" alt="Houston Astros' Jose Altuve (27) is mobbed by his teammates after hitting a walk-off RBI double during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)" />
 <figcaption>Houston Astros' Jose Altuve (27) is mobbed by his teammates after hitting a walk-off RBI double during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)</figcaption>
 </figure>KRISTI RIEKEN AP Sports WriterHOUSTON (AP) — Framber Valdez pitched seven no-hit innings and Jose Altuve hit a game-ending RBI double in the ninth to lift the Houston Astros to a 3-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.The game was tied at 2-all when Jake Meyers singled off James McArthur (5-6) with one out in the ninth. There were two outs when Altuve bounced his double off the wall in left field to send Meyers home and set off a wild celebration.“He always finds a way to wow us and that’s another big swing by Jose Altuve,” manager Joe Espada said.The Royals trailed 2-0 and had just one hit when Bobby Witt Jr. reached on an error by shortstop Jeremy Peña to start the ninth. With one out, Paul DeJong sent a slider from Josh Hader (7-7) into the Crawford Boxes in left field to tie it.Valdez was pulled after throwing 98 pitches, 60 for strikes, with seven strikeouts, three walks and a hit batter. He wasn't upset that Espada removed him from the game with the no-hitter intact.“He made the decision that I was done there and I agreed,” Valdez said through an interpreter. “The most important thing was that we won the game.”Espada raved about his starter's performance.“That curveball, the sinker kept that all-righty lineup off-balance,” Espada said. “His stuff is so good. Efficient, composed, going after hitters, getting big outs.”Bryan Abreu took over to start the eighth and retired Michael Massey on a fly ball before pinch-hitter MJ Melendez grounded out. Pinch-hitter Kyle Isbel then grounded a single to left field for the Royals' first hit.The 30-year-old Valdez threw a no-hitter against Cleveland on Aug. 1, 2023. He nearly had a second one earlier this month before Corey Seager homered with two outs in the ninth inning of a 4-2 win over Texas on Aug. 6.It was the second time this week the Astros took a no-hit bid into the eighth inning. Spencer Arrighetti allowed his first hit to start the eighth in a 10-0 win over the NL East-leading Phillies on Wednesday.Valdez sailed through the first four innings but needed some help from his defense in the fifth. Freddy Fermin hit a sharp grounder to Peña, who fielded it and made a leaping throw that bounced to Victor Caratini at first just before Fermin’s foot hit the bag.Valdez smiled and pointed at Peña after the play. Nick Loftin grounded out to end the inning.Valdez hit Perez with a pitch with one out in the seventh before striking out DeJong. Fermin walked, prompting a visit from pitching coach Josh Miller. Valdez then struck out Loftin to end his night.Espada said it was a tough decision to remove Valdez but that he thought it was best because of how hard he had to work in the seventh inning.Ben Gamel led off Houston’s third with his first home run this season, a shot to center field.Yainer Diaz singled with one out in the eighth before a double by Caratini. The Astros made it 2-0 when Diaz scored on a sacrifice fly by Peña.Seth Lugo permitted six hits and a run with nine strikeouts in six innings.“He had it all working,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “Seven innings of one-run baseball against that team is a phenomenal effort.”TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: 1B Vinnie Pasquantino will miss the rest of the regular season after breaking his right thumb while trying to make a play Thursday night. The injury will require surgery and the expected recovery time is 6-to-8 weeks, meaning Pasquantino could potentially return if the Royals make a playoff run. ... Reliever Lucas Erceg was injured on the same play when he tried to barehand a comebacker. His hand was bruised and swollen Friday but Quatraro said the injury wasn’t serious.Astros: 3B Alex Bregman was out of the lineup Friday with elbow soreness. ... RF Kyle Tucker (right shin bruise) took live batting practice Friday for the first time since fouling a ball off his leg June 3. Tucker said he’s feeling good and believes he can return soon. He added that he hopes not to go on a minor league rehabilitation assignment and instead prepare for his return by doing more live BP and possibly simulated games.UP NEXTHouston LHP Yusei Kikuchi (6-9, 4.39 ERA) opposes LHP Cole Ragans (10-8, 3.28) when the series continues Saturday night.

⚾ Royals lose Friday in Houston

AP Sports Summary for Saturday August 31st, 2024:

Defending champion Novak Djokovic is shocked at the US Open one night after Carlos Alcaraz's loss

NEW YORK (AP) — Defending champion Novak Djokovic has lost at the U.S. Open one night after Carlos Alcaraz did. Djokovic bowed out in the third round with a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 loss against 28th-seeded Alexei Popyrin of Australia on Friday night. The No. 2-seeded Djokovic was trying to become the first player in tennis history with 25 Grand Slam singles titles. Instead, he finishes a year without claiming at least one major championship for the first time since 2017. Before that, it hadn't happened since 2010. The third-round exit equals Djokovic's worst showing at Flushing Meadows. Alcaraz was beaten by 74th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp on Thursday.

Coco Gauff comes back at the US Open and beats Elina Svitolina. Emma Navarro is next

NEW YORK (AP) — Coco Gauff has come back to beat Elina Svitolina 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 and reach the fourth round of the U.S. Open. Friday's result in New York extends the 20-year-old American's defense of her first Grand Slam title. The third-seeded Gauff made mistake after mistake in the first set and dropped its last 11 points against the 27th-seeded Svitolina. But Gauff managed to turn things around and win despite losing the opening set, something she did three times en route to winning the 2023 trophy at the U.S. Open. This ends a five-match losing streak for Gauff against opponents ranked in the top 50. She will face Emma Navarro next.

Sabalenka wins latest-starting match in US Open history that finally begins after midnight

NEW YORK (AP) — Aryna Sabalenka finally got rolling after a bad beginning to the latest-starting match in U.S. Open history and beat No. 29 Ekaterina Alexandrova 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the fourth round. The No. 2 seed didn't hit the first shot of the match until after midnight Saturday and had dropped the first set barely a half-hour later. But she seized control early in the second set, winning 10 straight games to open a 5-0 lead in the third. The runner-up last year in Flushing Meadows advanced to face No. 33 seed Elise Mertens on Sunday. The previous latest start to a match at the U.S. Open was exactly at midnight on Sept. 2, 1987, with Gabriela Sabatini going on to beat Beverly Bowes 6-3, 6-3.

NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and brother killed when bicycles hit by car on eve of sister's wedding

NHL player Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets has been killed after being hit by a car while riding a bicycle in his home state of New Jersey. He was 31. New Jersey State Police confirmed Gaudreau and brother Matthew were hit by a driver of a car on Thursday night in Salem County, not far from their native Carneys Point. Officials said the driver was suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by auto. The driver admitted to drinking five or six beers prior to the crash.

A Ukrainian Paralympian left the warfront to compete in Paris. His mind is on his platoon in 'hell'

VILLEPINTE, France (AP) — For Ukrainian volleyball player and infantry officer Dmytro Melnyk, coming to Paris to compete at the Paralympic Games has come at a cost. He had to leave behind his platoon of 35 soldiers on the front lines of the war against Russia. Unable to call them for news because "they're in the middle of hell" and unreachable from France, he says all he can do is hope there will still be 35 of them when he gets back. Such is the heart-wrench for Ukraine's delegation of 141 athletes who are trying to remain focused on the chase for medals even as the Russian onslaught on their country means their minds are often elsewhere.

Will Smith hits 3-run homer, Dodgers extend NL West lead to 5 games with 10-9 win over D-backs

PHOENIX (AP) — Will Smith hit a late three-run homer, Shohei Ohtani added his 43rd of the season and the Los Angeles Dodgers extended their NL West lead to five games with a 10-9 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Freddie Freeman did the early damage with a two-run homer in the first inning after missing three straight games to rest a fractured right middle finger. Smith gave the Dodgers a 9-5 lead in the seventh, just clearing the wall in left with his three-run shot. Ohtani hit a solo homer in the eighth inning, doubled and had stolen base No. 43 after going 0 for 5 against Baltimore. Jake McCarthy hit a two-run single and Eugenio Suarez added a two-run homer in the ninth for Arizona.

Arnold throws 4 TD passes -- 3 to newcomer Burks -- to help No. 16 Oklahoma rout Temple 51-3

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Jackson Arnold threw four touchdown passes — three to newcomer Deion Burks — and No. 16 Oklahoma routed Temple 51-3 on Friday night in the season opener for both teams. Oklahoma forced six turnovers and held Temple to 197 yards in its first game as a member of the Southeastern Conference. The Sooners joined the league this summer after a long run in the Big 12. Arnold, a sophomore, completed 17 of 25 passes for 141 yards in his first career victory as a starting quarterback for the Sooners. Burks, a transfer from Purdue, never caught more than two touchdown passes in a game for the Boilermakers. He had three scores at halftime Friday and finished with six catches for 36 yards.

Josh Hoover leads TCU to a 34-27 victory over Stanford in season opener

STANFORD, Calif. (AP) — Josh Hoover threw for 353 yards and the go-ahead touchdown with 3:13 to play to lead TCU to a 34-27 victory over Stanford in the season opener for both teams. Hoover also threw a TD pass on the opening drive of the game and scored on a 1-yard sneak in the third quarter. That all led to a 10th straight home loss for the Cardinal. Stanford is still seeking its first win at home under second-year coach Troy Taylor following an 0-7 mark last season.

Caitlin Clark has career-high 31 points, 12 assists as Fever beat Sky 100-81 despite Reese record

CHICAGO (AP) — Caitlin Clark had a career-high 31 points and 12 assists in her final regular-season matchup with fellow rookie sensation Angel Reese, leading the Indiana Fever to a dominating 100-81 win over the reeling Chicago Sky. Clark shot 8 for 14, including 5 for 9 from 3-point range, in her 11th double-double. She is the only player to ever have three games of at least 25 points and 10 rebounds in a season. On the other side, Reese had 10 points and 11 rebounds, breaking a tie with Tina Charles for rookie double-doubles with 23 and passing Sylvia Fowles for the Chicago season record. The Fever (16-16) beat the Sky (11-20) for the third time in four matchups, solidifying their probable playoff berth while Chicago is barely hanging on to the last spot as the season winds down.

Scottie Scheffler leads by 4 at East Lake as Morikawa and Schauffele try to keep it close

ATLANTA (AP) — Scottie Scheffler had a chance to run away with the FedEx Cup finale. Collin Morikawa and Xander Schauffele have done their best to stay in range. Scheffler was efficient as ever from tee-to-green and shot a 66. Morikawa birdied his last two holes for a 63 and still trailed by four shots going into the weekend. Schauffele made a pair of big putts after a storm delay and finished with a 64. He was five back, one better than he started on Friday. No one else was close to Scheffler. At stake is $25 million for winning the FedEx Cup.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

		(7)Notre Dame	at	(20)Texas A&amp;M	7:30 p.m.	

		Chattanooga	at	(15)Tennessee	12:45 p.m.	

		S. Dakota St.	at	(17)Oklahoma St.	2 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Saturday August 31st, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Saturday August 31st, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for Saturday August 31st, 2024:<div><iframe width="100%" height="95" src="https://embeds.audioboom.com/posts/8564105/embed?v=202301" style="background-color: transparent; display: block; padding: 0; width: 100%" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="allowtransparency" scrolling="no" title="Audioboom player" allow="autoplay" sandbox="allow-downloads allow-forms allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-storage-access-by-user-activation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation"></iframe></div>Defending champion Novak Djokovic is shocked at the US Open one night after Carlos Alcaraz's lossNEW YORK (AP) — Defending champion Novak Djokovic has lost at the U.S. Open one night after Carlos Alcaraz did. Djokovic bowed out in the third round with a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 loss against 28th-seeded Alexei Popyrin of Australia on Friday night. The No. 2-seeded Djokovic was trying to become the first player in tennis history with 25 Grand Slam singles titles. Instead, he finishes a year without claiming at least one major championship for the first time since 2017. Before that, it hadn't happened since 2010. The third-round exit equals Djokovic's worst showing at Flushing Meadows. Alcaraz was beaten by 74th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp on Thursday.Coco Gauff comes back at the US Open and beats Elina Svitolina. Emma Navarro is nextNEW YORK (AP) — Coco Gauff has come back to beat Elina Svitolina 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 and reach the fourth round of the U.S. Open. Friday's result in New York extends the 20-year-old American's defense of her first Grand Slam title. The third-seeded Gauff made mistake after mistake in the first set and dropped its last 11 points against the 27th-seeded Svitolina. But Gauff managed to turn things around and win despite losing the opening set, something she did three times en route to winning the 2023 trophy at the U.S. Open. This ends a five-match losing streak for Gauff against opponents ranked in the top 50. She will face Emma Navarro next.Sabalenka wins latest-starting match in US Open history that finally begins after midnightNEW YORK (AP) — Aryna Sabalenka finally got rolling after a bad beginning to the latest-starting match in U.S. Open history and beat No. 29 Ekaterina Alexandrova 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 to reach the fourth round. The No. 2 seed didn't hit the first shot of the match until after midnight Saturday and had dropped the first set barely a half-hour later. But she seized control early in the second set, winning 10 straight games to open a 5-0 lead in the third. The runner-up last year in Flushing Meadows advanced to face No. 33 seed Elise Mertens on Sunday. The previous latest start to a match at the U.S. Open was exactly at midnight on Sept. 2, 1987, with Gabriela Sabatini going on to beat Beverly Bowes 6-3, 6-3.NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and brother killed when bicycles hit by car on eve of sister's weddingNHL player Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets has been killed after being hit by a car while riding a bicycle in his home state of New Jersey. He was 31. New Jersey State Police confirmed Gaudreau and brother Matthew were hit by a driver of a car on Thursday night in Salem County, not far from their native Carneys Point. Officials said the driver was suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by auto. The driver admitted to drinking five or six beers prior to the crash.A Ukrainian Paralympian left the warfront to compete in Paris. His mind is on his platoon in 'hell'VILLEPINTE, France (AP) — For Ukrainian volleyball player and infantry officer Dmytro Melnyk, coming to Paris to compete at the Paralympic Games has come at a cost. He had to leave behind his platoon of 35 soldiers on the front lines of the war against Russia. Unable to call them for news because "they're in the middle of hell" and unreachable from France, he says all he can do is hope there will still be 35 of them when he gets back. Such is the heart-wrench for Ukraine's delegation of 141 athletes who are trying to remain focused on the chase for medals even as the Russian onslaught on their country means their minds are often elsewhere.Will Smith hits 3-run homer, Dodgers extend NL West lead to 5 games with 10-9 win over D-backsPHOENIX (AP) — Will Smith hit a late three-run homer, Shohei Ohtani added his 43rd of the season and the Los Angeles Dodgers extended their NL West lead to five games with a 10-9 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Freddie Freeman did the early damage with a two-run homer in the first inning after missing three straight games to rest a fractured right middle finger. Smith gave the Dodgers a 9-5 lead in the seventh, just clearing the wall in left with his three-run shot. Ohtani hit a solo homer in the eighth inning, doubled and had stolen base No. 43 after going 0 for 5 against Baltimore. Jake McCarthy hit a two-run single and Eugenio Suarez added a two-run homer in the ninth for Arizona.Arnold throws 4 TD passes -- 3 to newcomer Burks -- to help No. 16 Oklahoma rout Temple 51-3NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Jackson Arnold threw four touchdown passes — three to newcomer Deion Burks — and No. 16 Oklahoma routed Temple 51-3 on Friday night in the season opener for both teams. Oklahoma forced six turnovers and held Temple to 197 yards in its first game as a member of the Southeastern Conference. The Sooners joined the league this summer after a long run in the Big 12. Arnold, a sophomore, completed 17 of 25 passes for 141 yards in his first career victory as a starting quarterback for the Sooners. Burks, a transfer from Purdue, never caught more than two touchdown passes in a game for the Boilermakers. He had three scores at halftime Friday and finished with six catches for 36 yards.Josh Hoover leads TCU to a 34-27 victory over Stanford in season openerSTANFORD, Calif. (AP) — Josh Hoover threw for 353 yards and the go-ahead touchdown with 3:13 to play to lead TCU to a 34-27 victory over Stanford in the season opener for both teams. Hoover also threw a TD pass on the opening drive of the game and scored on a 1-yard sneak in the third quarter. That all led to a 10th straight home loss for the Cardinal. Stanford is still seeking its first win at home under second-year coach Troy Taylor following an 0-7 mark last season.Caitlin Clark has career-high 31 points, 12 assists as Fever beat Sky 100-81 despite Reese recordCHICAGO (AP) — Caitlin Clark had a career-high 31 points and 12 assists in her final regular-season matchup with fellow rookie sensation Angel Reese, leading the Indiana Fever to a dominating 100-81 win over the reeling Chicago Sky. Clark shot 8 for 14, including 5 for 9 from 3-point range, in her 11th double-double. She is the only player to ever have three games of at least 25 points and 10 rebounds in a season. On the other side, Reese had 10 points and 11 rebounds, breaking a tie with Tina Charles for rookie double-doubles with 23 and passing Sylvia Fowles for the Chicago season record. The Fever (16-16) beat the Sky (11-20) for the third time in four matchups, solidifying their probable playoff berth while Chicago is barely hanging on to the last spot as the season winds down.Scottie Scheffler leads by 4 at East Lake as Morikawa and Schauffele try to keep it closeATLANTA (AP) — Scottie Scheffler had a chance to run away with the FedEx Cup finale. Collin Morikawa and Xander Schauffele have done their best to stay in range. Scheffler was efficient as ever from tee-to-green and shot a 66. Morikawa birdied his last two holes for a 63 and still trailed by four shots going into the weekend. Schauffele made a pair of big putts after a storm delay and finished with a 64. He was five back, one better than he started on Friday. No one else was close to Scheffler. At stake is $25 million for winning the FedEx Cup.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	N.Y. Yankees	6	St. Louis	3	Final	Cleveland	10	Pittsburgh	8	Final	San Diego	13	Tampa Bay	5	Final	N.Y. Mets	5	Chicago White Sox	1	Final	Baltimore	5	Colorado	3	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Boston	7	Detroit	5	Final	Houston	3	Kansas City	2	Final	Minnesota	2	Toronto	0	Final	Oakland	9	Texas	2	Final	Seattle	9	L.A. Angels	5	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Milwaukee	5	Cincinnati	4	Final	Atlanta	7	Philadelphia	2	Final	Milwaukee	14	Cincinnati	0	Final	Chicago Cubs	7	Washington	6	Final	San Francisco	3	Miami	1	Final	L.A. Dodgers	10	Arizona	9	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALLFinal	(16)Oklahoma	51	Temple	3	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Dallas	94	Minnesota	76	Final	Indiana	100	Chicago	81	Final	Las Vegas	83	Atlanta	72	Final	New York	98	Seattle	85	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		St. Louis	at	N-Y Yankees	1:05 p.m.			San Diego	at	Tampa Bay	4:10 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	Cleveland	6:10 p.m.			N-Y Mets	at	Chi White Sox	7:10 p.m.			Baltimore	at	Colorado	8:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Boston	at	Detroit	6:10 p.m.			Oakland	at	Texas	7:05 p.m.			Kansas City	at	Houston	7:10 p.m.			Toronto	at	Minnesota	7:10 p.m.			Seattle	at	L-A Angels	9:38 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Chi Cubs	at	Washington	4:05 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Philadelphia	7:15 p.m.			Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	7:15 p.m.			L-A Dodgers	at	Arizona	8:10 p.m.			Miami	at	San Francisco	9:05 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALL		(14)Clemson	at	(1)Georgia	12 p.m.			(7)Notre Dame	at	(20)Texas A&amp;M	7:30 p.m.			(8)Penn St.	at	West Virginia	12 p.m.			Illinois St.	at	(25)Iowa	12 p.m.			Chattanooga	at	(15)Tennessee	12:45 p.m.			S. Dakota St.	at	(17)Oklahoma St.	2 p.m.			(19)Miami	at	Florida	3:30 p.m.			Akron	at	(2)Ohio St.	3:30 p.m.			Colorado St.	at	(4)Texas	3:30 p.m.			UT Martin	at	(18)Kansas St.	7 p.m.			W. Kentucky	at	(5)Alabama	7 p.m.			Furman	at	(6)Mississippi	7 p.m.			Fresno St.	at	(9)Michigan	7:30 p.m.			Idaho	at	(3)Oregon	7:30 p.m.			New Mexico	at	(21)Arizona	10:30 p.m.	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Connecticut	at	Washington	3 p.m.	___MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER		Atlanta	at	Charlotte FC	7:30 p.m.			CF Montréal	at	Cincinnati	7:30 p.m.			New York City FC	at	Columbus	7:30 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	New York	7:30 p.m.			Nashville	at	Orlando City	7:30 p.m.			D.C. United	at	Toronto FC	7:30 p.m.			Vancouver	at	Austin FC	8:30 p.m.			Miami	at	Chicago	8:30 p.m.			Colorado	at	FC Dallas	8:30 p.m.			New England	at	Real Salt Lake	9:30 p.m.			Houston	at	Los Angeles FC	10:30 p.m.			Seattle	at	Portland	10:30 p.m.			Minnesota	at	San Jose	10:30 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Saturday

WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge gathered a 6-1 win over the Springfield Cardinals at Riverfront Stadium. While scoring all six of their runs in the middle innings, the piggyback role worked to perfection in the contest, which evened the series 2-2.

Matt Lloyd swiftly slotted a single the other way to left field to bring in Michael Siani from third for a Cardinals run in the top of the first.&nbsp;Marco Raya&nbsp;ultimately stranded two runners in scoring position after forcing an infield putout.

After a successful rundown kept the game within one run for Wichita in the top of the third,&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;lofted an RBI single out to right field after a balk put a pair of runners in scoring position in the bottom of the fourth.

Jake Rucker&nbsp;brought the Wind Surge ahead on a two-RBI double, his 21st two-bagger of the season, that hugged the left field chalk into the corner in the bottom of the fifth for a 3-1 lead.

Jorel Ortega&nbsp;and&nbsp;Noah Cardenas&nbsp;each connected on doubles in the sixth for three more runs and a five-run cushion that lasted until the end of the game for a 6-1 victory.

Raya improved to 2-4 on the year after the win, throwing five innings of one-run baseball with three hits and five strikeouts against three walks.&nbsp;Christian MacLeod&nbsp;earned his first professional save with four no-hit innings, retiring as many as 10 consecutive hitters while punching out six with a pair of base on balls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725099241985.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge gathered a 6-1 win over the Springfield Cardinals at Riverfront Stadium. While scoring all six of their runs in the middle innings, the piggyback role worked to perfection in the contest, which evened the series 2-2.Matt Lloyd swiftly slotted a single the other way to left field to bring in Michael Siani from third for a Cardinals run in the top of the first.&nbsp;Marco Raya&nbsp;ultimately stranded two runners in scoring position after forcing an infield putout.After a successful rundown kept the game within one run for Wichita in the top of the third,&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;lofted an RBI single out to right field after a balk put a pair of runners in scoring position in the bottom of the fourth.Jake Rucker&nbsp;brought the Wind Surge ahead on a two-RBI double, his 21st two-bagger of the season, that hugged the left field chalk into the corner in the bottom of the fifth for a 3-1 lead.Jorel Ortega&nbsp;and&nbsp;Noah Cardenas&nbsp;each connected on doubles in the sixth for three more runs and a five-run cushion that lasted until the end of the game for a 6-1 victory.Raya improved to 2-4 on the year after the win, throwing five innings of one-run baseball with three hits and five strikeouts against three walks.&nbsp;Christian MacLeod&nbsp;earned his first professional save with four no-hit innings, retiring as many as 10 consecutive hitters while punching out six with a pair of base on balls.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge get bounce-back win over Cardinals

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724945681552.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
 
MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash; As K-State puts the final touches on its preparation for the season opener against UT Martin on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium, fans are alerted of the following construction projects in and around the Manhattan area that could affect travel plans.
 
I-70 at Junction City &ndash;&nbsp;The pavement replacement project between Exit 295 on the west and mile marker 300 on the east of Junction City will again impact football game traffic this season. Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction and is head-to-head. Fans are to note that westbound exit ramps 296, 298 and 299 are closed. The speed limit is reduced in this area and delays are anticipated with heavy gameday traffic. Kansas Department of Transportation officials suggest that fans driving to Manhattan from the south or west who typically utilize I-70 through Junction City consider using an alternate route.
 
I-70 at McDowell Creek Road &ndash;&nbsp;In addition, beginning September 9 prior to the Arizona game on Friday, September 13, the exit at McDowell Creek Road will close as the bridge over I-70 is replaced. Traffic on I-70 in this area will be reduced to one lane through the work zone. The project is scheduled to be completed in May 2025.
 
Kimball Avenue &ndash;&nbsp;Construction on Kimball Avenue has been completed and the roadway is open to east-west traffic at the Denison Avenue intersection. However, shipping delays related to the new traffic signal for the intersection will prevent Denison from reopening to left turns. Only &quot;right-in&quot; and &quot;right-out&quot; southbound traffic will be allowed initially for safety reasons and through traffic on Kimball will not stop.
 
Denison Avenue &ndash;&nbsp;Denison will remain closed south of Kimball to the intersection to Olympic Drive (Recreation Complex entrance) during the football season. Fans who normally utilize Denison to access parking lots along Kimball will need to use College or Manhattan avenues. Parking for Lot E4, VIP and the student tailgate area is accessible from Denison through Olympic Drive.
 
Anderson Avenue &ndash;&nbsp;Anderson Avenue from Seth Child Road to Wreath Avenue is under construction, a project that will last through the fall. Traffic is one lane in both directions, so fans are to expect delays in this area.
 
All parking lots around Bill Snyder Family Stadium open five hours prior to kickoff, which will be 1 p.m., this Saturday. As always, fans are encouraged to arrive early as pregame traffic could become congested.
 
A free shuttle sponsored by the K-State Union, Housing and Dining Services and K-State Campus Store is available to fans with free parking in the K-State Parking Garage. The shuttle begins two hours prior to kickoff from the south circle on M.L.K. Jr., Drive, between the K-State Parking Garage and the Union. Passengers will be dropped off near the Jardine Plaza Neighborhood. Return trips resume with five minutes remaining in the third quarter, and rides will continue until approximately one hour after the end of the game.
<div>How to follow the Cats:&nbsp;For complete information on K-State Football, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" style="color: rgb(229, 231, 235);">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;and follow the team&apos;s social media channels on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.x.com/kstatefb" style="color: rgb(229, 231, 235);">X (formerly Twitter)</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.instagram.com/kstatefb" style="color: rgb(229, 231, 235);">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/kstatesports" style="color: rgb(229, 231, 235);">Facebook</a>.</div></div>

🏈 K-State issues travel advice ahead of season-opener Saturday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals received bad news on Friday morning, as first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino has been placed on the Injured List with a broken right thumb.

Pasquantino is hitting .262 with 19 home runs and 97 RBI this season.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683698587616.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino runs the bases after hitting a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Tuesday, May 9, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino runs the bases after hitting a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Tuesday, May 9, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals received bad news on Friday morning, as first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino has been placed on the Injured List with a broken right thumb.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vinnie Pasquantino has a broken right thumb, and further tests are scheduled today. He could return in six to eight weeks.&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1829527115450225112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Pasquantino is hitting .262 with 19 home runs and 97 RBI this season.&nbsp;

⚾ Pasquantino to miss 6-8 weeks with injury

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday August 20th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday August 20th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="August 30th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hdhq7-16baf54-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Royals drop a game and a half back with loss to Houston; 🏈 HutchCC is impressive in win over NMMI

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Devin Neal ran for 112 yards and two touchdowns on eight first-half carries and No. 22 Kansas beat Lindenwood 48-3 on Thursday night in the opener for both teams.

Kansas outscored Lindenwood 27-0 in the second quarter at Children’s Mercy Park. Lindenwood, in its third year as an FCS program, played its first game against an FBS opponent.

Daniels, who played only in the first half for Kansas, was 9 of 15 for 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

“For the first game, it was about what I hoped for,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I thought Jalon (Daniels) played really well. I thought Devin and Daniel (Hishaw) ran the ball hard. I thought all our backs ran the ball hard.

"I thought the defense was solid. There are still some things with communication where we've got to be better. It was a good night, but there are some things as we step up and play a Big Ten opponent (Illinois) next, we've got to be better.”

The Jayhawks are playing home games in Kansas City — two at Children’s Mercy Park and four at Arrowhead Stadium — because of stadium renovations.

“I thought the atmosphere was great at the beginning of the game,” Leipold said. “There was energy. After a few of those big plays, in the second half it tapered down a little bit.”

Lindenwood averted a shutout with a 34-yard field goal by Logan Seibert with 6:12 left.

After forcing a three-and-out on Lindenwood's first series, Kansas marched 65 yards in nine plays for its first touchdown. Neal punched it in from the 5. Kansas had to convert a fourth-and-3 on the drive.

But that's all the offense Kansas could muster in the first quarter. Lindenwood ran 20 plays in the first quarter, compared to just 12 for Kansas, and the Lions held the ball for almost 10 minutes.

Turnovers hurt Kansas early in the first half. Quentin Skinner fumbled on Kansas' second drive. Daniels then threw an interception, ending the Jayhawks' third drive early in the second quarter.

Luke Grimm said he and Daniels read different coverages, but Daniels took the blame.

“Luke read the defense perfectly," Daniels said. "That play was on me. I have to give props to the DB for making that play.”

Neal gave the Jayhawks a 14-0 lead in the second quarter on a 1-yard scamper, capping a seven-play, 85-yard drive.

Mello Dotson put Kansas up 20-0 with an interception return. He stepped in front of a pass on the right sideline and raced 33 yards untouched. The extra point caromed off the upright.

“At the beginning of that play, the quarterback was staring down his receiver,” Dotson said. “He gave him a sign to run the out route. I saw the quarterback give him that sign and I knew the ball was coming my way.”

Daniels then hit Grimm with a 58-yard touchdown strike to extend the lead to 27-0, vindicating Daniels.

“I just had to forget the (bad) play and make sure my next throw was the right throw.”

Hishaw's 1-yard run with 4 seconds left in the half made it 34-0.

Lindenwood saw the difference between the two levels of Division I in the trenches. The Lions averaged just 3.5 yards per play, compared to 8.2 yards per play for Kansas. Kansas will need to address the turnovers on offense as the quality of opponent ramps up next week.

Lindenwood: Hosts Central Arkansas on Saturday, Sept. 7.

Kansas: At Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725011060418.jpeg" alt="Kansas running back Devin Neal (4) runs for a first down during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Lindenwood Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas running back Devin Neal (4) runs for a first down during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Lindenwood Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Devin Neal ran for 112 yards and two touchdowns on eight first-half carries and No. 22 Kansas beat Lindenwood 48-3 on Thursday night in the opener for both teams.Kansas outscored Lindenwood 27-0 in the second quarter at Children’s Mercy Park. Lindenwood, in its third year as an FCS program, played its first game against an FBS opponent.Daniels, who played only in the first half for Kansas, was 9 of 15 for 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception.“For the first game, it was about what I hoped for,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I thought Jalon (Daniels) played really well. I thought Devin and Daniel (Hishaw) ran the ball hard. I thought all our backs ran the ball hard."I thought the defense was solid. There are still some things with communication where we've got to be better. It was a good night, but there are some things as we step up and play a Big Ten opponent (Illinois) next, we've got to be better.”The Jayhawks are playing home games in Kansas City — two at Children’s Mercy Park and four at Arrowhead Stadium — because of stadium renovations.“I thought the atmosphere was great at the beginning of the game,” Leipold said. “There was energy. After a few of those big plays, in the second half it tapered down a little bit.”Lindenwood averted a shutout with a 34-yard field goal by Logan Seibert with 6:12 left.After forcing a three-and-out on Lindenwood's first series, Kansas marched 65 yards in nine plays for its first touchdown. Neal punched it in from the 5. Kansas had to convert a fourth-and-3 on the drive.But that's all the offense Kansas could muster in the first quarter. Lindenwood ran 20 plays in the first quarter, compared to just 12 for Kansas, and the Lions held the ball for almost 10 minutes.Turnovers hurt Kansas early in the first half. Quentin Skinner fumbled on Kansas' second drive. Daniels then threw an interception, ending the Jayhawks' third drive early in the second quarter.Luke Grimm said he and Daniels read different coverages, but Daniels took the blame.“Luke read the defense perfectly," Daniels said. "That play was on me. I have to give props to the DB for making that play.”Neal gave the Jayhawks a 14-0 lead in the second quarter on a 1-yard scamper, capping a seven-play, 85-yard drive.Mello Dotson put Kansas up 20-0 with an interception return. He stepped in front of a pass on the right sideline and raced 33 yards untouched. The extra point caromed off the upright.“At the beginning of that play, the quarterback was staring down his receiver,” Dotson said. “He gave him a sign to run the out route. I saw the quarterback give him that sign and I knew the ball was coming my way.”Daniels then hit Grimm with a 58-yard touchdown strike to extend the lead to 27-0, vindicating Daniels.“I just had to forget the (bad) play and make sure my next throw was the right throw.”Hishaw's 1-yard run with 4 seconds left in the half made it 34-0.<h2>The takeaway</h2>Lindenwood saw the difference between the two levels of Division I in the trenches. The Lions averaged just 3.5 yards per play, compared to 8.2 yards per play for Kansas. Kansas will need to address the turnovers on offense as the quality of opponent ramps up next week.<h2>Up next</h2>Lindenwood: Hosts Central Arkansas on Saturday, Sept. 7.Kansas: At Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 7.

🏈 No. 22 Kansas uses big 2nd quarter to rout overmatched Lindenwood 

WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge lost 6-3 to the Springfield Cardinals at Riverfront Stadium. While Wichita connected on a pair of homers in their final game as the Turbo Tubs this season, the Cardinals put up all six of their runs without any scoreboard response until they were down to their final out, which was too little too late.

Tanner Schobel&nbsp;jolted a two-run blast, his 10th of the season, out to the left field berm in the bottom of the first. Back-to-back Wind Surge hitters have crossed the 10 long ball threshold in back-to-back games after&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;did so last night.

Springfield scored their first run on a long double play in the top of the fourth when Matt Lloyd touched the plate before a rundown between first and second base ended the frame with a 2-1 score in favor of Wichita. R.J. Yeager brought the Cardinals ahead on a two-out, two-run single to left in the following inning.

Nathan Church entered the game as a pinch-hitter in the top of the ninth and singled to center to improve Springfield’s lead to 4-2. Yeager did another solid and singled home two more batters later for a ninth-inning Cardinals three-spot.

Kyler Fedko&nbsp;yanked a solo shot, his third of the season, to left-center in the bottom of the ninth when Wichita was down to their final out, which got recorded four pitches later with a 6-3 final score.

Jaylen Nowlin&nbsp;falls to 5-6 on the season after the loss. He gave up three runs (two earned) on three hits with four walks and six strikeouts in four and two-thirds innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725007017494.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge lost 6-3 to the Springfield Cardinals at Riverfront Stadium. While Wichita connected on a pair of homers in their final game as the Turbo Tubs this season, the Cardinals put up all six of their runs without any scoreboard response until they were down to their final out, which was too little too late.Tanner Schobel&nbsp;jolted a two-run blast, his 10th of the season, out to the left field berm in the bottom of the first. Back-to-back Wind Surge hitters have crossed the 10 long ball threshold in back-to-back games after&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;did so last night.Springfield scored their first run on a long double play in the top of the fourth when Matt Lloyd touched the plate before a rundown between first and second base ended the frame with a 2-1 score in favor of Wichita. R.J. Yeager brought the Cardinals ahead on a two-out, two-run single to left in the following inning.Nathan Church entered the game as a pinch-hitter in the top of the ninth and singled to center to improve Springfield’s lead to 4-2. Yeager did another solid and singled home two more batters later for a ninth-inning Cardinals three-spot.Kyler Fedko&nbsp;yanked a solo shot, his third of the season, to left-center in the bottom of the ninth when Wichita was down to their final out, which got recorded four pitches later with a 6-3 final score.Jaylen Nowlin&nbsp;falls to 5-6 on the season after the loss. He gave up three runs (two earned) on three hits with four walks and six strikeouts in four and two-thirds innings.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge can't answer Springfield's scoring

Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter help Colorado hold off NDSU 31-26 to start Year 2 under Deion Sanders

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Shedeur Sanders threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns — three to Travis Hunter — and Colorado began Year 2 under Deion Sanders by holding off FCS power North Dakota State 31-26 on Thursday night. A 10 1/2-point favorite, the Buffaloes couldn't shake a pesky Bison team that scored with 2:19 remaining to make things interesting. Shedeur Sanders looked as if he sealed the season-opening victory when he scrambled around and heaved a ball downfield on third-and-8 that drew a pass interference call. But North Dakota State got the ball back with 31 seconds remaining. Cam Miller launched a pass from his own 47 as time expired that was caught by Tyler Terhark 4 yards short of the end zone.

49ers' Brandon Aiyuk ends contract dispute, agrees to 4-year, $120M deal, AP sources say

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brandon Aiyuk's long contract dispute with San Francisco came to an end Thursday when he agreed on a four-year contract to stay with the 49ers. A person familiar with the deal says the sides came to the agreement after Aiyuk missed his second straight practice despite being cleared by team doctors to participate. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal hadn't been announced. NFL Network first reported the agreement that will pay Aiyuk $120 million over four years with $76 million in guarantees.

Stephen Curry signs $63 million extension with Warriors for 2026-27 season

Stephen Curry has signed a one-year extension with the Golden State Warriors for the 2026-27 season, one in which the NBA's all-time 3-point leader and Olympic gold medalist will earn nearly $63 million. The team announced the signing. ESPN first reported the agreement was in place, and Curry's agent, Jeff Austin of Octagon, later confirmed it to The Associated Press. Curry is now guaranteed about $178 million for the next three seasons; about $55.8 million for this season, about $59.6 million for 2025-26 and now about $62.6 million — the most the Warriors could offer by league rule — for 2026-27.

US Open: Carlos Alcaraz's 15-match Grand Slam win streak ends in loss to Botic van de Zandschulp

NEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz's 15-match Grand Slam unbeaten run has ended at the U.S. Open with a 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 loss to Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round. Alcaraz's exit in New York on Thursday night comes after he won the French Open in June and Wimbledon in July. The 21-year-old from Spain won the U.S. Open in 2022 and was 16-2 at the hard-court tournament in his career. This was his earliest loss at any major tournament since bowing out in the second round at Wimbledon in 2021 as a teenager. Alcaraz has never lost in the first round at a Slam event. He was a big favorite against the 74th-ranked van de Zandschulp.

Naomi Osaka's forehand goes awry and she loses in the US Open's second round to Karolina Muchova

NEW YORK (AP) — Karolina Muchova has eliminated two-time U.S. Open champion Naomi Osaka 6-3, 7-6 (5) in the second round at Flushing Meadows. Osaka was a point from pushing the contest to a third set while serving for the second at 5-4 on Thursday night in Arthur Ashe Stadium. But Osaka missed forehand after forehand until she ceded that game and chucked her racket. Muchova then pulled out the victory in the ensuing tiebreaker. Muchova was the runner-up at the 2023 French Open and made it to the semifinals at the U.S. Open last year before losing to champion Coco Gauff.

No. 1 seeds Sinner, Swiatek move into the third round at the US Open; Alcaraz, Osaka eliminated

NEW YORK (AP) — Iga Swiatek and Jannik Sinner have flashed their No. 1 form with powerful performances that moved them into the third round of the U.S. Open. Carlos Alcaraz and Naomi Osaka couldn't quite find the games that once had them on top of the rankings. Swiatek raced by Japanese qualifier Ena Shibahara 6-0, 6-1, finishing off the match in 65 minutes. It took the 2022 U.S. Open champion longer than that to play the second set of her first-round match, when she needed a tiebreaker that she eventually closed out in 72 minutes. Sinner downed Alex Michelsen 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 in 1 hour, 39 minutes.

The Chiefs' pursuit of a 3-peat is the hot topic among many storylines entering 2024 NFL season

Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs chasing history will be the hottest topic throughout the NFL season. Kansas City's three-peat quest is only one of many interesting storylines. Aaron Rodgers is back in New York after his first season with the Jets lasted only four plays. The 40-year-old four-time NFL MVP is returning from a torn Achilles tendon and aiming to help the Jets end the league's longest active playoff drought. No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams takes over for the Bears, looking to end Chicago's lengthy search for a franchise quarterback. Eighteen weeks and 272 games to determine the teams that'll play in January to figure out which two face off in February for the Vince Lombardi trophy.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Friday August 30th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Friday August 30th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for August 30th, 2024:<div><iframe width="100%" height="95" src="https://embeds.audioboom.com/posts/8563561/embed?v=202301" style="background-color: transparent; display: block; padding: 0; width: 100%" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="allowtransparency" scrolling="no" title="Audioboom player" allow="autoplay" sandbox="allow-downloads allow-forms allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-storage-access-by-user-activation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation"></iframe></div>Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter help Colorado hold off NDSU 31-26 to start Year 2 under Deion SandersBOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Shedeur Sanders threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns — three to Travis Hunter — and Colorado began Year 2 under Deion Sanders by holding off FCS power North Dakota State 31-26 on Thursday night. A 10 1/2-point favorite, the Buffaloes couldn't shake a pesky Bison team that scored with 2:19 remaining to make things interesting. Shedeur Sanders looked as if he sealed the season-opening victory when he scrambled around and heaved a ball downfield on third-and-8 that drew a pass interference call. But North Dakota State got the ball back with 31 seconds remaining. Cam Miller launched a pass from his own 47 as time expired that was caught by Tyler Terhark 4 yards short of the end zone.49ers' Brandon Aiyuk ends contract dispute, agrees to 4-year, $120M deal, AP sources saySANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brandon Aiyuk's long contract dispute with San Francisco came to an end Thursday when he agreed on a four-year contract to stay with the 49ers. A person familiar with the deal says the sides came to the agreement after Aiyuk missed his second straight practice despite being cleared by team doctors to participate. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal hadn't been announced. NFL Network first reported the agreement that will pay Aiyuk $120 million over four years with $76 million in guarantees.Stephen Curry signs $63 million extension with Warriors for 2026-27 seasonStephen Curry has signed a one-year extension with the Golden State Warriors for the 2026-27 season, one in which the NBA's all-time 3-point leader and Olympic gold medalist will earn nearly $63 million. The team announced the signing. ESPN first reported the agreement was in place, and Curry's agent, Jeff Austin of Octagon, later confirmed it to The Associated Press. Curry is now guaranteed about $178 million for the next three seasons; about $55.8 million for this season, about $59.6 million for 2025-26 and now about $62.6 million — the most the Warriors could offer by league rule — for 2026-27.US Open: Carlos Alcaraz's 15-match Grand Slam win streak ends in loss to Botic van de ZandschulpNEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz's 15-match Grand Slam unbeaten run has ended at the U.S. Open with a 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 loss to Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round. Alcaraz's exit in New York on Thursday night comes after he won the French Open in June and Wimbledon in July. The 21-year-old from Spain won the U.S. Open in 2022 and was 16-2 at the hard-court tournament in his career. This was his earliest loss at any major tournament since bowing out in the second round at Wimbledon in 2021 as a teenager. Alcaraz has never lost in the first round at a Slam event. He was a big favorite against the 74th-ranked van de Zandschulp.Naomi Osaka's forehand goes awry and she loses in the US Open's second round to Karolina MuchovaNEW YORK (AP) — Karolina Muchova has eliminated two-time U.S. Open champion Naomi Osaka 6-3, 7-6 (5) in the second round at Flushing Meadows. Osaka was a point from pushing the contest to a third set while serving for the second at 5-4 on Thursday night in Arthur Ashe Stadium. But Osaka missed forehand after forehand until she ceded that game and chucked her racket. Muchova then pulled out the victory in the ensuing tiebreaker. Muchova was the runner-up at the 2023 French Open and made it to the semifinals at the U.S. Open last year before losing to champion Coco Gauff.No. 1 seeds Sinner, Swiatek move into the third round at the US Open; Alcaraz, Osaka eliminatedNEW YORK (AP) — Iga Swiatek and Jannik Sinner have flashed their No. 1 form with powerful performances that moved them into the third round of the U.S. Open. Carlos Alcaraz and Naomi Osaka couldn't quite find the games that once had them on top of the rankings. Swiatek raced by Japanese qualifier Ena Shibahara 6-0, 6-1, finishing off the match in 65 minutes. It took the 2022 U.S. Open champion longer than that to play the second set of her first-round match, when she needed a tiebreaker that she eventually closed out in 72 minutes. Sinner downed Alex Michelsen 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 in 1 hour, 39 minutes.The Chiefs' pursuit of a 3-peat is the hot topic among many storylines entering 2024 NFL seasonPatrick Mahomes and the Chiefs chasing history will be the hottest topic throughout the NFL season. Kansas City's three-peat quest is only one of many interesting storylines. Aaron Rodgers is back in New York after his first season with the Jets lasted only four plays. The 40-year-old four-time NFL MVP is returning from a torn Achilles tendon and aiming to help the Jets end the league's longest active playoff drought. No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams takes over for the Bears, looking to end Chicago's lengthy search for a franchise quarterback. Eighteen weeks and 272 games to determine the teams that'll play in January to figure out which two face off in February for the Vince Lombardi trophy.Team USA keeps Olympic training center, other facilities open for Paralympians for the first timePARIS (AP) — The United States Olympic &amp; Paralympic Committee is giving its Paralympians an advantage long held by its Olympians: a training facility of their own. For the first time, the U.S. High Performance Facility is staying open through the Paralympic games at a multisport facility in the Paris suburbs. Athletes say that having a space they can call their own makes training much easier, and that having the support facilities and staff they use back in the States allows them to focus on their competition. The facility will return to local ownership with $29 million in renovations by USOPC.NFL places restrictions on Brady's broadcasting access because of pending Raiders ownership stakeAn NFL spokesperson says Tom Brady's pending bid to become a part owner of the Las Vegas Raiders has triggered restrictions on his access to teams as part of his role as a Fox Sports broadcaster. Brady is not permitted to attend in-person or online broadcast production meetings and may not have access to team facilities, players or coaches. Fox staff is not subject to these limitations. He also must abide by the league constitution and bylaws that prohibit public criticism of officials and other clubs. Brady is allowed to broadcast Raiders games.Jacoby Brissett is selected Patriots starting quarterback for Week 1 against CincinnatiFOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Patriots coach Jerod Mayo has selected Jacoby Brissett as the starting quarterback for New England's season opener at Cincinnati. Brissett gets the nod over rookie first-round draft pick Drake Maye, who he shared snaps with throughout training camp and the preseason. Brissett, who heading into his ninth NFL season, signed a one-year, $8 million deal with the Patriots in March. It reunited him with the team that drafted him in in the third round in 2016. While Mayo acknowledged earlier this week that he felt Maye had outplayed Brissett this preseason, he said other factors shifted the pendulum toward Brissett, most notably his overall experience.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Cincinnati	10	Oakland	9	Final	L.A. Dodgers	6	Baltimore	3	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	L.A. Angels	3	Detroit	0	Final	Texas	2	Chicago White Sox	1	Final	Toronto	2	Boston	0	Final	Houston	6	Kansas City	3	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Milwaukee	6	San Francisco	0	Final	St. Louis	4	San Diego	1	Final	N.Y. Mets	3	Arizona	2	Final	Miami	12	Colorado	8	Final	Philadelphia	5	Atlanta	4	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALLFinal	(24)NC State	38	W. Carolina	21	Final	(11)Missouri	51	Murray St.	0	Final	(22)Kansas	48	Lindenwood (Mo.)	3	Final	(12)Utah	49	S. Utah	0	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		San Diego	at	Tampa Bay	6:50 p.m.			St. Louis	at	N-Y Yankees	7:05 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	Cleveland	7:10 p.m.			N-Y Mets	at	Chi White Sox	8:10 p.m.			Baltimore	at	Colorado	8:40 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Boston	at	Detroit	6:40 p.m.			Oakland	at	Texas	8:05 p.m.			Kansas City	at	Houston	8:10 p.m.			Toronto	at	Minnesota	8:10 p.m.			Seattle	at	L-A Angels	9:38 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	12:40 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Philadelphia	6:40 p.m.			Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	6:40 p.m.			Chi Cubs	at	Washington	6:45 p.m.			L-A Dodgers	at	Arizona	9:40 p.m.			Miami	at	San Francisco	10:15 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALL		Temple	at	(16)Oklahoma	7 p.m.	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Indiana	at	Chicago	7:30 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Dallas	7:30 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Las Vegas	10 p.m.			New York	at	Seattle	10 p.m.	___