Following a trade that sent left handed reliever Angel Zerpa to the Milwaukee Brewers, the Kansas City Royals turned up the search to find new left handed help in their bullpen, and turned to a familiar face, acquiring Matt Strahm from the Philadelphia Phillies in a trade.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In return, the Royals sent right hander Jonathan Bowlan to Philadelphia.&nbsp; The 29 year old&nbsp;Bowlan pitched in parts of the last three seasons with the Royals, appearing in a career-high 34 games last season. The club transitioned him to a full-time reliever over the past year and he bounced back and forth between Triple-A and the Majors for much of the year.

Strahm has turned into one of the better lefty setup men in the league, and in the past three seasons with the Phillies, he posted a 2.71 ERA across 188 appearances. The 34 year old lefty was an All-Star in 2024 and finished that year with a 1.87 ERA, and last season, he posted a 2.74 ERA across a career-high-tying 66 appearances in 62 1/3 innings with a career-best 22 holds. In the last four seasons since 2022, Strahm ranks third among all left-handed pitchers with a 2.90 ERA, trailing only Tyler Holton (2.63) and Alex Vesia (2.74).

Strahm’s career began with the Royals, who drafted him in the 21st round of the 2012 MLB Draft out of Neosho County Community College. He made his debut with the Royals in 2016 and pitched two seasons in Kansas City before being traded to the Padres with Esteury Ruiz and Travis Wood for Brandon Maurer, Ryan Buchter and Trevor Cahill.

Nearly nine years after he left Kansas City, Strahm couldn’t be happier to reunite with his former team that’s now looking to be a sustainable winner.

“This all feels like a movie to me,” Strahm told MLB.com writer Anne Rogers. “This all started here in Kansas City. It’s gone full circle. With my family, I’ve been talking about the montage of my Spring Training profile pic over the [past] 10 years -- it’s going to be a good one to go from Royal to Royal.”

In his career, Strahm has held left-handed batters to a .239/.302/.376 slash line, and actually has better numbers against righties, who have slashed .212/.279/.370 against him. In 2025, lefties hit .233 with a .673 OPS against Strahm, while righties hit .196 with a .585 OPS. With the Royals, Strahm figures to be the go-to lefty in high-leverage situations, joining the back end of the bullpen that includes Lucas Erceg and closer Carlos Estévez, who are both right handers.

Strahm wasn't the only move Kansas City made on Friday.&nbsp; The Royals also added some depth potential for their bench, signing&nbsp;Abraham Toro to a minor league contract along with an invite to spring training.&nbsp;

Toro&nbsp;has appeared in the past seven big league seasons as a part-time, multi-positional player. He was with the Boston Red Sox in 2025 but he was outrighted off the roster in August. He became a free agent at season’s end, which allowed the Royals to sign him to this deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has 1,582 plate appearances over those seven campaigns with a combined .223/.285/.356 line over that time.

Defensively, he has logged hundreds of big league innings at the non-shortstop infield positions, with brief looks in the outfield corners as well.&nbsp; Kansas City currently has Nick Loftin and Tyler Tolbert on the roster as potential bench infielders but both are still optionable. If the Royals would prefer those guys to get regular playing time, they could be sent to Triple-A. The Royals have added Kevin Newman and now Toro as veteran infielders on non-roster pacts who could potentially take over a bench role. &nbsp;

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766194733348.jpeg" alt="The Kansas City Royals are reuniting with a former 2012 draft pick after trading Jonathan Bowlan to the Philadelphia Phillies for Matt Strahm.&nbsp; Strahm debuted for the Royals in 2016, pitching two seasons before being traded to San Diego.&nbsp; In his most recent stint with the Phillies, Strahm posted a&nbsp;2.74 ERA across 66 appearances (62 1/3 innings) with a career-best 22 holds/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Royals are reuniting with a former 2012 draft pick after trading Jonathan Bowlan to the Philadelphia Phillies for Matt Strahm.&nbsp; Strahm debuted for the Royals in 2016, pitching two seasons before being traded to San Diego.&nbsp; In his most recent stint with the Phillies, Strahm posted a&nbsp;2.74 ERA across 66 appearances (62 1/3 innings) with a career-best 22 holds/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEFollowing a trade that sent left handed reliever Angel Zerpa to the Milwaukee Brewers, the Kansas City Royals turned up the search to find new left handed help in their bullpen, and turned to a familiar face, acquiring Matt Strahm from the Philadelphia Phillies in a trade.&nbsp;&nbsp;In return, the Royals sent right hander Jonathan Bowlan to Philadelphia.&nbsp; The 29 year old&nbsp;Bowlan pitched in parts of the last three seasons with the Royals, appearing in a career-high 34 games last season. The club transitioned him to a full-time reliever over the past year and he bounced back and forth between Triple-A and the Majors for much of the year.Strahm has turned into one of the better lefty setup men in the league, and in the past three seasons with the Phillies, he posted a 2.71 ERA across 188 appearances. The 34 year old lefty was an All-Star in 2024 and finished that year with a 1.87 ERA, and last season, he posted a 2.74 ERA across a career-high-tying 66 appearances in 62 1/3 innings with a career-best 22 holds. In the last four seasons since 2022, Strahm ranks third among all left-handed pitchers with a 2.90 ERA, trailing only Tyler Holton (2.63) and Alex Vesia (2.74).Strahm’s career began with the Royals, who drafted him in the 21st round of the 2012 MLB Draft out of Neosho County Community College. He made his debut with the Royals in 2016 and pitched two seasons in Kansas City before being traded to the Padres with Esteury Ruiz and Travis Wood for Brandon Maurer, Ryan Buchter and Trevor Cahill.Nearly nine years after he left Kansas City, Strahm couldn’t be happier to reunite with his former team that’s now looking to be a sustainable winner.“This all feels like a movie to me,” Strahm told MLB.com writer Anne Rogers. “This all started here in Kansas City. It’s gone full circle. With my family, I’ve been talking about the montage of my Spring Training profile pic over the [past] 10 years -- it’s going to be a good one to go from Royal to Royal.”In his career, Strahm has held left-handed batters to a .239/.302/.376 slash line, and actually has better numbers against righties, who have slashed .212/.279/.370 against him. In 2025, lefties hit .233 with a .673 OPS against Strahm, while righties hit .196 with a .585 OPS. With the Royals, Strahm figures to be the go-to lefty in high-leverage situations, joining the back end of the bullpen that includes Lucas Erceg and closer Carlos Estévez, who are both right handers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766195912380.jpeg" alt="The Royals also signed utility player Abraham Toro to a minor league contract on Friday.&nbsp; Toro spent last season with the Boston Red Sox, batting .239 with a .289 OBP/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X" />
 <figcaption>The Royals also signed utility player Abraham Toro to a minor league contract on Friday.&nbsp; Toro spent last season with the Boston Red Sox, batting .239 with a .289 OBP/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Strahm wasn't the only move Kansas City made on Friday.&nbsp; The Royals also added some depth potential for their bench, signing&nbsp;Abraham Toro to a minor league contract along with an invite to spring training.&nbsp;Toro&nbsp;has appeared in the past seven big league seasons as a part-time, multi-positional player. He was with the Boston Red Sox in 2025 but he was outrighted off the roster in August. He became a free agent at season’s end, which allowed the Royals to sign him to this deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has 1,582 plate appearances over those seven campaigns with a combined .223/.285/.356 line over that time.Defensively, he has logged hundreds of big league innings at the non-shortstop infield positions, with brief looks in the outfield corners as well.&nbsp; Kansas City currently has Nick Loftin and Tyler Tolbert on the roster as potential bench infielders but both are still optionable. If the Royals would prefer those guys to get regular playing time, they could be sent to Triple-A. The Royals have added Kevin Newman and now Toro as veteran infielders on non-roster pacts who could potentially take over a bench role. &nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals send Bowlan to Philadelphia and reunite with Matt Strahm

KFEQ Morning Sports 12/16/2025

By Brent MartinSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2JTda88ZOqYyGSC2NRtgHp?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports 12/15/25

For the first time since the 2014 season, the Kansas City Chiefs will not be a part of the NFL postseason, losing the Los Angeles Chargers 16-13 officially ending their postseason hopes after results of three other games turned into elimination for Kansas City.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chiefs needed a win against the Chargers to keep their playoff hopes alive, along with a loss from the Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Houston Texans.&nbsp; Even with the Chiefs loss, had any of those teams lost, there still would have been a chance, but the Jaguars blew out the New York Jets, the Bills came back for a win against the New England Patriots, and the Texans beat the Arizona Cardinals.&nbsp;

Kansas City did hold a lead for most of the first half, outscoring Los Angeles 13-3 for a lead.&nbsp; A 12 yard rushing touchdown from Patrick Mahomes gave the Chiefs the lead in the opening quarter.&nbsp; Cameron Dicker cut into the lead for the Chargers with a 49 yard field goal, but Harrison Butker knocked through field goals of 27 and 47 yards to extend Kansas City's lead in the second quarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From there, it was all Los Angeles, as the Chargers outscored the Chiefs 13-0, first cutting the lead to three points just before the halftime break with a 16 yard touchdown pass from Justin Herbert to KeAndre Lambert, making the score 13-10 at the halftime break.&nbsp; The first half was also riddled with injuries for Kansas City.&nbsp; Offensive tackle Jaylon Moore left, but did return, though later left with a knee injury and did not return.&nbsp; Xavier Worthy and Nick Bolton also went into the blue injury tent, but returned to action.&nbsp;

In the second half, Dicker tied up early in the third quarter with a 23 yard field goal, and then near the end of the quarter put Los Angeles in the lead with a 41 yard field goal.&nbsp; Kansas City's ensuing drive ended with an interception, Mahomes being picked off by Daiyan Henley at the Chargers 17 yard line.&nbsp; Kansas City forced Los Angeles to punt, after a 12 play drive that consumed over seven minutes of clock, and on a last ditch drive, it was a Chiefs fans worst nightmare with the playoffs on the line.&nbsp;

On 1st and 10, just after the two minute warning,&nbsp;Mahomes was sprinting toward the sideline and throwing the ball away when he was spun to the ground by defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand, leaving the two-time MVP grabbing at his left knee.&nbsp; Backup Gardner Minshew would come into the game, Mahomes headed to the locker room, and six plays later Minshew's pass attempt was picked off by Derwin James, ending the game.&nbsp;

Mahomes was 16 of 28 passing for 189 yards and one interception, adding two rushes for 15 yards and a touchdown.&nbsp; Isiah Pacheco had 11 carries for 21 yards while Kareem Hunt had six carries for 12 yards.&nbsp; Travis Kelce was the leading receiver with seven catches for 70 yards, Rashee Rice had seven catches for 51 yards, and Tyquan Thornton had two catches for 47 yards.

Kansas City is now 6-8 on the season and will be on the road next week to take on the Tennessee Titans.&nbsp; Kickoff is at noon with pregame at 11am on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7 FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765749129757.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) is checked on after being injured during the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) is checked on after being injured during the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEFor the first time since the 2014 season, the Kansas City Chiefs will not be a part of the NFL postseason, losing the Los Angeles Chargers 16-13 officially ending their postseason hopes after results of three other games turned into elimination for Kansas City.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chiefs needed a win against the Chargers to keep their playoff hopes alive, along with a loss from the Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Houston Texans.&nbsp; Even with the Chiefs loss, had any of those teams lost, there still would have been a chance, but the Jaguars blew out the New York Jets, the Bills came back for a win against the New England Patriots, and the Texans beat the Arizona Cardinals.&nbsp;Kansas City did hold a lead for most of the first half, outscoring Los Angeles 13-3 for a lead.&nbsp; A 12 yard rushing touchdown from Patrick Mahomes gave the Chiefs the lead in the opening quarter.&nbsp; Cameron Dicker cut into the lead for the Chargers with a 49 yard field goal, but Harrison Butker knocked through field goals of 27 and 47 yards to extend Kansas City's lead in the second quarter.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MAHOMES TO THE HOUSE 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMahomes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PatrickMahomes</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProBowlVote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProBowlVote</a> <a href="https://t.co/UzArap8kxJ">pic.twitter.com/UzArap8kxJ</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/2000268118388552007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>From there, it was all Los Angeles, as the Chargers outscored the Chiefs 13-0, first cutting the lead to three points just before the halftime break with a 16 yard touchdown pass from Justin Herbert to KeAndre Lambert, making the score 13-10 at the halftime break.&nbsp; The first half was also riddled with injuries for Kansas City.&nbsp; Offensive tackle Jaylon Moore left, but did return, though later left with a knee injury and did not return.&nbsp; Xavier Worthy and Nick Bolton also went into the blue injury tent, but returned to action.&nbsp;In the second half, Dicker tied up early in the third quarter with a 23 yard field goal, and then near the end of the quarter put Los Angeles in the lead with a 41 yard field goal.&nbsp; Kansas City's ensuing drive ended with an interception, Mahomes being picked off by Daiyan Henley at the Chargers 17 yard line.&nbsp; Kansas City forced Los Angeles to punt, after a 12 play drive that consumed over seven minutes of clock, and on a last ditch drive, it was a Chiefs fans worst nightmare with the playoffs on the line.&nbsp;On 1st and 10, just after the two minute warning,&nbsp;Mahomes was sprinting toward the sideline and throwing the ball away when he was spun to the ground by defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand, leaving the two-time MVP grabbing at his left knee.&nbsp; Backup Gardner Minshew would come into the game, Mahomes headed to the locker room, and six plays later Minshew's pass attempt was picked off by Derwin James, ending the game.&nbsp;Mahomes was 16 of 28 passing for 189 yards and one interception, adding two rushes for 15 yards and a touchdown.&nbsp; Isiah Pacheco had 11 carries for 21 yards while Kareem Hunt had six carries for 12 yards.&nbsp; Travis Kelce was the leading receiver with seven catches for 70 yards, Rashee Rice had seven catches for 51 yards, and Tyquan Thornton had two catches for 47 yards.Kansas City is now 6-8 on the season and will be on the road next week to take on the Tennessee Titans.&nbsp; Kickoff is at noon with pregame at 11am on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and Q Country (92.7 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs eliminated from playoff contention for first time since 2014

The Kansas City Royals continued their activity after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, making a trade Saturday evening with the Milwaukee Brewers in their mission to upgrade their outfield and bullpen.&nbsp;

The Royals&nbsp;acquired switch hitting outfielder Isaac Collins and right-handed reliever Nick Mears from the Brewers, sending lefty reliever Angel Zerpa to Milwaukee, sources told MLB.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;The trade has not been confirmed by the clubs.

While Collins played a majority of his games in left field for the Brewers last season, utility player may be a better label for Collins, who also saw time at third base and second base. The 28-year-old was fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year voting after posting a slash line of .263/.368/.411 with a 118 OPS+, nine home runs and 54 RBIs.

The Royals have been scouring both the free-agent and trade markets for outfielders. They came to an agreement on a one-year deal with outfielder Lane Thomas on Thursday, a deal that’s not official yet. Collins fits the bill of what they’ve been looking for, especially as someone who can move around the field.&nbsp; Collins also fits the Royals’ type as a hitter, making solid contact and not missing much, with just an 18.4% chase rate last season and 22.5% whiff rate.

Mears, meanwhile, has some big stuff and posted a 3.49 ERA across 56 2/3 innings in 2025, with just 13 walks and 46 strikeouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 29-year-old logged a 33.5% chase rate in 2025 -- a number that ranked in MLB’s 93rd percentile, per Statcast.&nbsp;

Collins is not eligible for salary arbitration until 2028 and will be under club control until 2031. Mears meanwhile is arbitration eligible this year and can be a free agent following the 2027 season.

Zerpa had stretches of elite appearances over the past five seasons. He spent all of 2025 in the big leagues and posted a 4.18 ERA across a career-high 64 2/3 innings.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765679716693.jpeg" alt="Isaac Collins/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X" />
 <figcaption>Isaac Collins/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Royals continued their activity after the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, making a trade Saturday evening with the Milwaukee Brewers in their mission to upgrade their outfield and bullpen.&nbsp;The Royals&nbsp;acquired switch hitting outfielder Isaac Collins and right-handed reliever Nick Mears from the Brewers, sending lefty reliever Angel Zerpa to Milwaukee, sources told MLB.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;The trade has not been confirmed by the clubs.While Collins played a majority of his games in left field for the Brewers last season, utility player may be a better label for Collins, who also saw time at third base and second base. The 28-year-old was fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year voting after posting a slash line of .263/.368/.411 with a 118 OPS+, nine home runs and 54 RBIs.The Royals have been scouring both the free-agent and trade markets for outfielders. They came to an agreement on a one-year deal with outfielder Lane Thomas on Thursday, a deal that’s not official yet. Collins fits the bill of what they’ve been looking for, especially as someone who can move around the field.&nbsp; Collins also fits the Royals’ type as a hitter, making solid contact and not missing much, with just an 18.4% chase rate last season and 22.5% whiff rate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765680164851.jpeg" alt="Nick Mears/Photo courtesy of Brew Crew Scoop on X" />
 <figcaption>Nick Mears/Photo courtesy of Brew Crew Scoop on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Mears, meanwhile, has some big stuff and posted a 3.49 ERA across 56 2/3 innings in 2025, with just 13 walks and 46 strikeouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 29-year-old logged a 33.5% chase rate in 2025 -- a number that ranked in MLB’s 93rd percentile, per Statcast.&nbsp;Collins is not eligible for salary arbitration until 2028 and will be under club control until 2031. Mears meanwhile is arbitration eligible this year and can be a free agent following the 2027 season.Zerpa had stretches of elite appearances over the past five seasons. He spent all of 2025 in the big leagues and posted a 4.18 ERA across a career-high 64 2/3 innings.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals send Zerpa to Brewers, acquire more outfield help in Collins

Another year, another crushing loss in the semifinal round of the NAIA Conference football championships for the Benedictine Ravens.

Benedictine battled the conditions, and a tough Grand View team, as the Ravens fell 17-10 in the NAIA Semifinals at Duke Williams Stadium to the Vikings for a second time this season. 

Though battling tough near the end, Head Coach Joel Osborn says he has no regrets.

"We had our opportunities, and that's the tough part about today," Osborn told reporters following the game.&nbsp; "And that happens in life, but I have no regrets, no regrets."

Coming into the matchup with certain goals though, such as winning the turnover battle, and achieving those, made Osborn proud

"I thought we came out, and they hit us in the mouth a little bit, we responded and really did a nice job the second half on defense being physical and shutting the running game down, got some really critical stops," Osborn explains.&nbsp; "And then offensively, we moved the ball, we just didn't quite finish in the redzone like we wanted to and just left a few to many plays out there."

It's the second time this season the Ravens lost to the Vikings, the top team in the NAIA Conference.&nbsp; It's been quite the run for the Ravens over the last two years, winning a combined 23 games and losing just five, and making back to back trips to the semifinals. 

It's a run that Osborn is proud that his team has been able to accomplish

"Like I told our players at the end there in our huddle is, when you set your sights on really high goals, disappointment can come with that, but getting here to the semifinals and the way this game went with Grand View, you're going toe to toe with a championship pedigree program, I'm just really proud of our effort," Osborn says.&nbsp;

Prior to last season, the Ravens had not made it to the semifinals since 2018, the last time the program also made it to a championship game. 

It was the defense that led to Benedictine's first score of the game. After Isaiah Hasten picked off Grand View's Jackson Waring at the Benedictine 18-yard line, the Ravens were able to covert the interception into a touchdown drive that was capped off by a four yard rushing touchdown from Xavier Ugorji.&nbsp;

Grand View answered to tie the game in the second quarter on a rushing touchdown of their own, a 35 yard break away run by Bryant Williams. That touchdown was followed by field goals from both teams, Christian Klobe converting a 30-yard field goal with just over three minutes left before the half to give Benedictine back the lead before Cory Wood knocked through a 31-yard field goal with 16 seconds left to send the game into halftime tied at 10.

The Vikings broke the tie with just over one minute left in the third quarter on an eight yard pass from Waring to Triston Williams for the go ahead touchdown in the second half, which turned into the only scoring the rest of the way.

Benedictine finished with 248 total yards on offense with 146 yards rushing and 102 yards passing. Ugorji finished with 64 yards off 22 carries while Dalton Witherspoon added 47 yards. Jackson Dooley finished with 102 yards on 11 of 22 passing while Joseph Lagafuaina was the leading receiver with 46 yards on three receptions.

Benedictine finishes the season 12-2, their only losses of the season coming to Grand View.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765687389152.png" alt="Benedictine senior quarterback Jackson Dooley was visibly upset after the Ravens fell to Grand View 17-10 in the NAIA Conference semifinals, the second consecutive year the Ravens fell in the semifinal round of the conference tournament/ Photo courtesy of Brett Kennedy-KQ2 Sports" />
 <figcaption>Benedictine senior quarterback Jackson Dooley was visibly upset after the Ravens fell to Grand View 17-10 in the NAIA Conference semifinals, the second consecutive year the Ravens fell in the semifinal round of the conference tournament/ Photo courtesy of Brett Kennedy-KQ2 Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAnother year, another crushing loss in the semifinal round of the NAIA Conference football championships for the Benedictine Ravens.Benedictine battled the conditions, and a tough Grand View team, as the Ravens fell 17-10 in the NAIA Semifinals at Duke Williams Stadium to the Vikings for a second time this season. Though battling tough near the end, Head Coach Joel Osborn says he has no regrets."We had our opportunities, and that's the tough part about today," Osborn told reporters following the game.&nbsp; "And that happens in life, but I have no regrets, no regrets."Coming into the matchup with certain goals though, such as winning the turnover battle, and achieving those, made Osborn proud"I thought we came out, and they hit us in the mouth a little bit, we responded and really did a nice job the second half on defense being physical and shutting the running game down, got some really critical stops," Osborn explains.&nbsp; "And then offensively, we moved the ball, we just didn't quite finish in the redzone like we wanted to and just left a few to many plays out there."It's the second time this season the Ravens lost to the Vikings, the top team in the NAIA Conference.&nbsp; It's been quite the run for the Ravens over the last two years, winning a combined 23 games and losing just five, and making back to back trips to the semifinals. It's a run that Osborn is proud that his team has been able to accomplish"Like I told our players at the end there in our huddle is, when you set your sights on really high goals, disappointment can come with that, but getting here to the semifinals and the way this game went with Grand View, you're going toe to toe with a championship pedigree program, I'm just really proud of our effort," Osborn says.&nbsp;Prior to last season, the Ravens had not made it to the semifinals since 2018, the last time the program also made it to a championship game. It was the defense that led to Benedictine's first score of the game. After Isaiah Hasten picked off Grand View's Jackson Waring at the Benedictine 18-yard line, the Ravens were able to covert the interception into a touchdown drive that was capped off by a four yard rushing touchdown from Xavier Ugorji.&nbsp;Grand View answered to tie the game in the second quarter on a rushing touchdown of their own, a 35 yard break away run by Bryant Williams. That touchdown was followed by field goals from both teams, Christian Klobe converting a 30-yard field goal with just over three minutes left before the half to give Benedictine back the lead before Cory Wood knocked through a 31-yard field goal with 16 seconds left to send the game into halftime tied at 10.The Vikings broke the tie with just over one minute left in the third quarter on an eight yard pass from Waring to Triston Williams for the go ahead touchdown in the second half, which turned into the only scoring the rest of the way.Benedictine finished with 248 total yards on offense with 146 yards rushing and 102 yards passing. Ugorji finished with 64 yards off 22 carries while Dalton Witherspoon added 47 yards. Jackson Dooley finished with 102 yards on 11 of 22 passing while Joseph Lagafuaina was the leading receiver with 46 yards on three receptions.Benedictine finishes the season 12-2, their only losses of the season coming to Grand View.

Benedictine has chance late, but falls in semifinals to Grand View 17-10

A 10 year long agreement with Children's Mercy has come to an end and Sporting Kansas City will have to once again rename it's stadium.

Children’s Mercy confirmed in a news release on Friday that it would no longer be the team’s health care and sports medicine partner.

“As our 10-year naming partnership comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Sporting Kansas City organization, its players and staff, and the fans who have embraced Children’s Mercy as part of the team’s story. From player visits that brought joy to our patients, to collaborative efforts that elevated awareness for children’s health, this partnership has been a meaningful part of our journey,” the release read.

Reports show that Children’s Mercy Park will be renamed ahead of the KC2026 World Cup. The Sporting KC Training Facility will serve as a team base camp for at least one club during the World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Additionally, Sporting KC’s kits will now feature their new partner, Saint Luke’s Health System. The team showed off those kits were&nbsp; at a news conference today.

“Our two organizations have deep roots in Kansas City, and we are excited to join together to make a difference in local communities across the area through this partnership,” said Jake Reid, President and CEO of Sporting Kansas City during the news conference. “Saint Luke’s is an industry leader in many facets including patient experience, which aligns perfectly with our core values and focus on the experience for all our fans. We look forward to teaming up on impactful initiatives that will support Saint Luke’s patients and staff as well as Sporting Kansas City players and fans as we approach an incredibly exciting year for our sport and our region in 2026.”

Sporting Kansas City will kick off the 2026 Major League Soccer campaign on February 21st during MLS Is Back Weekend with the team’s first of 34 regular season games. Led by Designated Players Dejan Joveljic and Manu Garcia, Sporting Kansas City will also compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2026 after reaching the tournament final in 2024 and previously winning U.S. Soccer’s club championship four times.

By MATT PIKEA 10 year long agreement with Children's Mercy has come to an end and Sporting Kansas City will have to once again rename it's stadium.Children’s Mercy confirmed in a news release on Friday that it would no longer be the team’s health care and sports medicine partner.“As our 10-year naming partnership comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Sporting Kansas City organization, its players and staff, and the fans who have embraced Children’s Mercy as part of the team’s story. From player visits that brought joy to our patients, to collaborative efforts that elevated awareness for children’s health, this partnership has been a meaningful part of our journey,” the release read.Reports show that Children’s Mercy Park will be renamed ahead of the KC2026 World Cup. The Sporting KC Training Facility will serve as a team base camp for at least one club during the World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, Sporting KC’s kits will now feature their new partner, Saint Luke’s Health System. The team showed off those kits were&nbsp; at a news conference today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765582305320.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Sporting Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Sporting Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>“Our two organizations have deep roots in Kansas City, and we are excited to join together to make a difference in local communities across the area through this partnership,” said Jake Reid, President and CEO of Sporting Kansas City during the news conference. “Saint Luke’s is an industry leader in many facets including patient experience, which aligns perfectly with our core values and focus on the experience for all our fans. We look forward to teaming up on impactful initiatives that will support Saint Luke’s patients and staff as well as Sporting Kansas City players and fans as we approach an incredibly exciting year for our sport and our region in 2026.”Sporting Kansas City will kick off the 2026 Major League Soccer campaign on February 21st during MLS Is Back Weekend with the team’s first of 34 regular season games. Led by Designated Players Dejan Joveljic and Manu Garcia, Sporting Kansas City will also compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2026 after reaching the tournament final in 2024 and previously winning U.S. Soccer’s club championship four times.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Sporting KC to rename stadium as agreement with Children's Mercy ends

The Benedictine Ravens are in the NAIA Conference semifinals for a second consecutive season, looking for a trip to the championship.   

The Ravens are once again in the semifinal match, after a heartbreaking loss last season. 

"We took a crushing loss last year in the semifinals down in Florida to Keiser, had the lead and gave it up and had a play at the end of the game to win and didn’t get it done,” Head Coach Joel Osborn tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Osborn says after that defeat, the team had a mission, and with only one loss this season, now have a chance to finish that mission.  That loss, though, is against their opponent.  

Benedictine will face Grand View in Des Moines tomorrow, a team they lost against in week two 27-24. 

"So, we get another opportunity to go up there, and this time it’s for a chance to play in a National Championship,” Osborn says.  “So, there’s nothing more you could ask for at this point in time in the season and we’re looking forward to tomorrow’s game.” 

The Ravens opened the season against two top five opponents in Morningside and Grand View, winning one and losing the other.   

 Osborn says playing those tough matchups early in the season helps prepare you for the playoffs, because you feel like you've been there before 

"So, it’s not the first time you’re doing it, so you’re not having to change how you prepare, you’re not having to change how you practice, and do those things,” Osborn explains.  “And then in those games we were in those tight crunch situations and that really helped us I feel like.” 

With a win, the Ravens would head to their first championship game since 2018.  Osborn says it's a goal for this team to win a national championship, so winning this game would help them get one step closer. 

Osborn though says they are completely focused right now on winning this game against the Vikings 

"And more so than anything, not just winning but putting our best foot forward, the big keys for us are going to be the most physical team, being the disciplined team and winning the turnover battle, and if we do those things we can live with the results regardless of what they are,” Osborn says.  “But if we’re able to win this game and we have a lot of confidence in our abilities, then we love, love our chances next week in the National Championship.” 

Osborn says they aren't looking past Grand View though.  The game will kick off at noon in Des Moines tomorrow.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765568422778.jpeg" alt="The Benedictine Ravens made a second half comeback, but fell short to Grandview in week two of the regular season 27-24.&nbsp; Now the Ravens matchup with the Vikings again in the NAIA semifinals for a trip to the National Championship/ Photo courtesy of Raven Athletics" />
 <figcaption>The Benedictine Ravens made a second half comeback, but fell short to Grandview in week two of the regular season 27-24.&nbsp; Now the Ravens matchup with the Vikings again in the NAIA semifinals for a trip to the National Championship/ Photo courtesy of Raven Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Benedictine Ravens are in the NAIA Conference semifinals for a second consecutive season, looking for a trip to the championship. The Ravens are once again in the semifinal match, after a heartbreaking loss last season. "We took a crushing loss last year in the semifinals down in Florida to Keiser, had the lead and gave it up and had a play at the end of the game to win and didn’t get it done,” Head Coach Joel Osborn tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Osborn says after that defeat, the team had a mission, and with only one loss this season, now have a chance to finish that mission. That loss, though, is against their opponent. Benedictine will face Grand View in Des Moines tomorrow, a team they lost against in week two 27-24. "So, we get another opportunity to go up there, and this time it’s for a chance to play in a National Championship,” Osborn says. “So, there’s nothing more you could ask for at this point in time in the season and we’re looking forward to tomorrow’s game.” The Ravens opened the season against two top five opponents in Morningside and Grand View, winning one and losing the other. Osborn says playing those tough matchups early in the season helps prepare you for the playoffs, because you feel like you've been there before "So, it’s not the first time you’re doing it, so you’re not having to change how you prepare, you’re not having to change how you practice, and do those things,” Osborn explains. “And then in those games we were in those tight crunch situations and that really helped us I feel like.” With a win, the Ravens would head to their first championship game since 2018. Osborn says it's a goal for this team to win a national championship, so winning this game would help them get one step closer. Osborn though says they are completely focused right now on winning this game against the Vikings "And more so than anything, not just winning but putting our best foot forward, the big keys for us are going to be the most physical team, being the disciplined team and winning the turnover battle, and if we do those things we can live with the results regardless of what they are,” Osborn says. “But if we’re able to win this game and we have a lot of confidence in our abilities, then we love, love our chances next week in the National Championship.” Osborn says they aren't looking past Grand View though. The game will kick off at noon in Des Moines tomorrow.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Benedictine ready for rematch with Grand View for a trip to NAIA championship

Coming off an All Star campaign in one of the best season's of his career at third base, the Kansas City Royals have signed Maikel Garcia to a five year contract extension according to reports.&nbsp;

The five year extension secures the Royals future with Garcia through 2030 with a club option in 2031, according to&nbsp;a source telling MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.&nbsp;&nbsp;If the 2031 club option is picked up, Garcia's extension bought out two years of his free agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;The club has not confirmed.

The 25 year old&nbsp;Garcia earned his first career All-Star berth and Gold Glove Award, playing alongside shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who signed a 14-year extension in Spring Training of 2024.&nbsp; Garcia produced career highs in home runs with (16), RBIs (74) and OPS (.800) and played sterling defense at the hot corner, committing just seven errors for a .980 fielding percentage across 1,144 2/3 innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750338876368.jpeg" alt="Maikel Garcia/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Maikel Garcia/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEComing off an All Star campaign in one of the best season's of his career at third base, the Kansas City Royals have signed Maikel Garcia to a five year contract extension according to reports.&nbsp;The five year extension secures the Royals future with Garcia through 2030 with a club option in 2031, according to&nbsp;a source telling MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.&nbsp;&nbsp;If the 2031 club option is picked up, Garcia's extension bought out two years of his free agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;The club has not confirmed.The 25 year old&nbsp;Garcia earned his first career All-Star berth and Gold Glove Award, playing alongside shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who signed a 14-year extension in Spring Training of 2024.&nbsp; Garcia produced career highs in home runs with (16), RBIs (74) and OPS (.800) and played sterling defense at the hot corner, committing just seven errors for a .980 fielding percentage across 1,144 2/3 innings.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals secure future with Maikel Garcia signed to five year extension

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/40eHsKYJno2Z0BoMPxa1V1?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

The first year of having all seven Missouri high school football championships in St. Joseph was a successful event.  

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says he judges the success of the event on the experience of participants and the feedback received.  And Esely says the feedback has been positive. 

Esely says one thing that was validated in the first year was that Spratt Stadium at Missouri Western State University was the perfect size for these games 

"You know if you came to the Class 5 championship game in which Platte County won on Friday night or the Class 6 championship game where Lees Summit won on Saturday night, you saw a stadium that was absolutely electric, it was almost full,” Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “And again, that’s the environment a state championship should be played in, and in all due respect to Faurot Field in Columbia, you’re really going to struggle to get that just because of the stadium size.” 

Esely says there are not a lot of stadiums in this state that are set up and built to host three football games in one day any better than Spratt Stadium is as well which made for a memorable three days. 

Esely says he's received several positive comments about the championships, the most positive being teams saying that it felt like they were wanted here 

"I think that’s absolutely evident to people that saw the championship behind the scenes, the administrators, the media, is we definitely wanted them there,” Esely explains. 

And Esely says no matter if it's a team as close as Platte County, or as far as Live for Life Academy from St. Louis 

"I think you walked into an environment that was championship ready, I think the red carpet was rolled out for those folks, and I think it definitely left a good impression, not only for this year, but the next three guaranteed years we have,” Esely says. 

Esely says while the event was successful, they are always evaluating how to improve the event, all the way from concessions to security.  

Esely says first and foremost though, it's about the experience given to the 14 teams, and that it felt like a championship environment. 

"I think based on the feedback that we received is we delivered there,” Esely says.  “And we also want to make sure that our partner is happy as well, and that’s our friends at the Missouri High School Activities Association, they trusted us to bring their championship here and they certainly have a level of expectation as well, and I think their staff left here happy late Saturday night as well.” 

Esely says the hope is a good impression was left and the success of the event leads to even more success in the next three years, and hopefully even longer term. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe first year of having all seven Missouri high school football championships in St. Joseph was a successful event. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says he judges the success of the event on the experience of participants and the feedback received. And Esely says the feedback has been positive. Esely says one thing that was validated in the first year was that Spratt Stadium at Missouri Western State University was the perfect size for these games "You know if you came to the Class 5 championship game in which Platte County won on Friday night or the Class 6 championship game where Lees Summit won on Saturday night, you saw a stadium that was absolutely electric, it was almost full,” Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And again, that’s the environment a state championship should be played in, and in all due respect to Faurot Field in Columbia, you’re really going to struggle to get that just because of the stadium size.” Esely says there are not a lot of stadiums in this state that are set up and built to host three football games in one day any better than Spratt Stadium is as well which made for a memorable three days. Esely says he's received several positive comments about the championships, the most positive being teams saying that it felt like they were wanted here "I think that’s absolutely evident to people that saw the championship behind the scenes, the administrators, the media, is we definitely wanted them there,” Esely explains. And Esely says no matter if it's a team as close as Platte County, or as far as Live for Life Academy from St. Louis "I think you walked into an environment that was championship ready, I think the red carpet was rolled out for those folks, and I think it definitely left a good impression, not only for this year, but the next three guaranteed years we have,” Esely says. Esely says while the event was successful, they are always evaluating how to improve the event, all the way from concessions to security. Esely says first and foremost though, it's about the experience given to the 14 teams, and that it felt like a championship environment. "I think based on the feedback that we received is we delivered there,” Esely says. “And we also want to make sure that our partner is happy as well, and that’s our friends at the Missouri High School Activities Association, they trusted us to bring their championship here and they certainly have a level of expectation as well, and I think their staff left here happy late Saturday night as well.” Esely says the hope is a good impression was left and the success of the event leads to even more success in the next three years, and hopefully even longer term. JOURNAL<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0Ean8JWhLxy9gJPmoHloZM?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

First year of MSHSAA football championships in St. Joseph a success

After leaving Orlando at the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, the Kansas City Royals have taken a step in addressing their need to add outfield depth this offseason.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Royals have agreed to a one-year, $5.25 million deal with veteran outfielder Lane Thomas, sources told MLB.com on Thursday night.&nbsp; The club has not confirmed the contract, which is pending a physical and includes $1 million in incentives. 

The Royals are at 38 players on their 40-man roster, so a corresponding move is not needed.&nbsp; Thomas spent the last year and a half with the Guardians and went through several ups and downs. 

After joining Cleveland in a Trade Deadline deal with the Nationals in 2024, the Royals expressed interest in adding him then too, the outfielder batted .148 in his first 29 games for Cleveland. But he turned it on in September, with a .560 slugging percentage, and Thomas’ grand slam in Game 5 of the ALDS against Detroit and Tarik Skubal helped send the Guardians to the ALCS. 

There, Thomas’ double preceded a game-tying home run by Jhonkensy Noel in the bottom of the ninth in Game 3 against the Yankees, which the Guardians won in 10 innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;After that uneven 2024, Thomas was limited to 39 games and 125 at-bats for the Guardians in 2025, mostly due to a lingering case of plantar fasciitis in his right foot, which required surgery in September. And before that, Thomas missed a month with a right wrist bone bruise after he was hit by a pitch on the right wrist in Cleveland’s home opener. When healthy enough to play, Thomas batted just .160 with a .518 OPS and six extra-base hits.

The 30-year-old Thomas is a buy-low bounceback candidate and a right-handed hitter who can play center field, all items the Royals were searching for when looking at the free-agent market for outfielders who can provide some length to the bottom of their lineup. They missed out on re-signing Mike Yastrzemski, who inked a two-year, $23 million contract with the Braves on Wednesday, but had a list of free agents to continue to go after when they left the Winter Meetings.

Defensively, Thomas has seen time at all three outfield positions, including 276 starts in right field and 170 in center. In his last full season in 2024, he showed limited range but an elite arm. The Royals could use him as a right-handed option in center field when lefty Kyle Isbel sits, or in right field if lefty Jac Caglianone is not playing. There’s lots of opportunity in left field right now, too; the Royals plan to have Michael Massey split time between second base and left field in 2026.

The biggest question is if Thomas can recapture the form he showed in 2023, when he hit 28 homers and stole 20 bases for Washington, to go with a .783 OPS and 3.3 WAR. Even if not, he can still provide value against left-handed pitchers, against whom he has a career .292/.359/.500 slash line.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765501145656.jpeg" alt="The Kansas City Royals addressed their need in the outfield, signing former St. Louis Cardinal and Cleveland Guardian Lane Thomas to a one year deal on Thursday night/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Royals addressed their need in the outfield, signing former St. Louis Cardinal and Cleveland Guardian Lane Thomas to a one year deal on Thursday night/ Photo courtesy of MLB Trade Rumors on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEAfter leaving Orlando at the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings, the Kansas City Royals have taken a step in addressing their need to add outfield depth this offseason.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Royals have agreed to a one-year, $5.25 million deal with veteran outfielder Lane Thomas, sources told MLB.com on Thursday night.&nbsp; The club has not confirmed the contract, which is pending a physical and includes $1 million in incentives. The Royals are at 38 players on their 40-man roster, so a corresponding move is not needed.&nbsp; Thomas spent the last year and a half with the Guardians and went through several ups and downs. After joining Cleveland in a Trade Deadline deal with the Nationals in 2024, the Royals expressed interest in adding him then too, the outfielder batted .148 in his first 29 games for Cleveland. But he turned it on in September, with a .560 slugging percentage, and Thomas’ grand slam in Game 5 of the ALDS against Detroit and Tarik Skubal helped send the Guardians to the ALCS. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You might remember Lane Thomas for his grand slam off Skubal in the 2024 ALDS. Only played in 39 games last year, but slashed .237/.309/.400 with an OPS+ of 100 in 130 games in 2024. Good defender who can play all three OF spots. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Royals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Royals</a> <a href="https://t.co/tdfQLS6tC2">pic.twitter.com/tdfQLS6tC2</a>&mdash; Jack Johnson (@JohnyJ_15) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnyJ_15/status/1999264831845859434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>There, Thomas’ double preceded a game-tying home run by Jhonkensy Noel in the bottom of the ninth in Game 3 against the Yankees, which the Guardians won in 10 innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;After that uneven 2024, Thomas was limited to 39 games and 125 at-bats for the Guardians in 2025, mostly due to a lingering case of plantar fasciitis in his right foot, which required surgery in September. And before that, Thomas missed a month with a right wrist bone bruise after he was hit by a pitch on the right wrist in Cleveland’s home opener. When healthy enough to play, Thomas batted just .160 with a .518 OPS and six extra-base hits.The 30-year-old Thomas is a buy-low bounceback candidate and a right-handed hitter who can play center field, all items the Royals were searching for when looking at the free-agent market for outfielders who can provide some length to the bottom of their lineup. They missed out on re-signing Mike Yastrzemski, who inked a two-year, $23 million contract with the Braves on Wednesday, but had a list of free agents to continue to go after when they left the Winter Meetings.Defensively, Thomas has seen time at all three outfield positions, including 276 starts in right field and 170 in center. In his last full season in 2024, he showed limited range but an elite arm. The Royals could use him as a right-handed option in center field when lefty Kyle Isbel sits, or in right field if lefty Jac Caglianone is not playing. There’s lots of opportunity in left field right now, too; the Royals plan to have Michael Massey split time between second base and left field in 2026.The biggest question is if Thomas can recapture the form he showed in 2023, when he hit 28 homers and stole 20 bases for Washington, to go with a .783 OPS and 3.3 WAR. Even if not, he can still provide value against left-handed pitchers, against whom he has a career .292/.359/.500 slash line.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals add to outfield signing former Cardinal Lane Thomas

Missouri Western State University will once again host elementary and middle school students as the Field Trip with the Griffs returns, this year going a little bigger.  

In the inaugural year of the event, MoWest invited students from within the St. Joseph School District.  It was so well received; the district wanted to do it again. 

Senior Associate Athletic Director Ryan Menley says the district is planning to bring even more students to the event in the second year 

"So that led us to looking into a second game and basically saying well what does this look like for a men’s and a women’s game this year and the second date basically inviting all the surrounding counties,” Menley tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “Because there’s almost 30 schools around St. Joseph in a 30-mile radius in eight or nine surrounding counties and we figured why not extend the invitation, because the only negative last year, we were limited on space.” 

And this year, with two games, along with the St. Joseph School District, MoWest will invite students from around the Midland Empire, all the way from Mound City to Troy, Kansas. 

Senior Associate Athletic Director Ryan Menley says it's important for Missouri Western to showcase the university and get people on campus who may have never stepped foot on it. 

"I think this is a really good opportunity to build relationships with some of these schools and really some of these communities that this becomes an event,” Menley explains. 

In addition, Menley says every student who attends will receive a rally towel that acts as a season ticket, in hopes that those students will return to campus for more games.  

Menley says the hope is that following the event, students will continue to come back to campus, growing the next generation of Griffons and Griffon fans. 

"I think that’s really the focus here, yes it’s a great moment, it’s a great memory, it’s a great event, but we are trying to build something for the long term, and I think that’s the secondary goal of these two education games,” Menley says.  “And especially with the Midland Empire game, where getting the Maysville’s the Stewartsville’s, the Cameron’s, the Plattsburg’s to step foot on our campus and remember that this is your hometown university.” 

All of the St. Joseph School District will be in attendance on Monday to see the Griffon women face Livin the Dream, while several schools from the surrounding area will watch the men on Tuesday take on Avila.  

Both games will be at 11am, making it a true field trip for students.  An estimated 5,000 students from 37 area elementary schools will be in attendance over the two games. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765470899374.jpeg" alt="Students packed the Missouri Western fieldhouse during the inaugural Education Game last year.&nbsp; This year, MoWest will host two Education games on Monday and Tuesday for students from the St. Joseph School District and the Midland Empire/ Photo courtesy of MoWest Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Students packed the Missouri Western fieldhouse during the inaugural Education Game last year.&nbsp; This year, MoWest will host two Education games on Monday and Tuesday for students from the St. Joseph School District and the Midland Empire/ Photo courtesy of MoWest Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University will once again host elementary and middle school students as the Field Trip with the Griffs returns, this year going a little bigger. In the inaugural year of the event, MoWest invited students from within the St. Joseph School District. It was so well received; the district wanted to do it again. Senior Associate Athletic Director Ryan Menley says the district is planning to bring even more students to the event in the second year "So that led us to looking into a second game and basically saying well what does this look like for a men’s and a women’s game this year and the second date basically inviting all the surrounding counties,” Menley tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Because there’s almost 30 schools around St. Joseph in a 30-mile radius in eight or nine surrounding counties and we figured why not extend the invitation, because the only negative last year, we were limited on space.” And this year, with two games, along with the St. Joseph School District, MoWest will invite students from around the Midland Empire, all the way from Mound City to Troy, Kansas. Senior Associate Athletic Director Ryan Menley says it's important for Missouri Western to showcase the university and get people on campus who may have never stepped foot on it. "I think this is a really good opportunity to build relationships with some of these schools and really some of these communities that this becomes an event,” Menley explains. In addition, Menley says every student who attends will receive a rally towel that acts as a season ticket, in hopes that those students will return to campus for more games. Menley says the hope is that following the event, students will continue to come back to campus, growing the next generation of Griffons and Griffon fans. "I think that’s really the focus here, yes it’s a great moment, it’s a great memory, it’s a great event, but we are trying to build something for the long term, and I think that’s the secondary goal of these two education games,” Menley says. “And especially with the Midland Empire game, where getting the Maysville’s the Stewartsville’s, the Cameron’s, the Plattsburg’s to step foot on our campus and remember that this is your hometown university.” All of the St. Joseph School District will be in attendance on Monday to see the Griffon women face Livin the Dream, while several schools from the surrounding area will watch the men on Tuesday take on Avila. Both games will be at 11am, making it a true field trip for students. An estimated 5,000 students from 37 area elementary schools will be in attendance over the two games. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

MoWest to host several area students during second 'Field Trip with the Griffs'

After their first season in St. Joseph ended disappointingly missing out on the playoffs, the St. Joseph Goats will be back at Civic Arena this spring looking for redemption, and a trip back to the playoffs .

The Arena League officially announced the full schedule for the 2026 season, with the Goats set to open on the road on May 29th against the Arkansas Diamonds.&nbsp; The first home game for St. Joseph at Civic Arena will be on June 6th against the Ozark Lunkers.&nbsp;

Of the nine weeks, the Goats will host four games and be on the road for the other five.&nbsp; The other three home games will he on June 20th against Grand Island, a new team to The Arena League out of Nebraska, yet to be named.&nbsp; On June 27th St. Joseph will host the Eau Claire Axemen.

The final home game of the season will wrap up three consecutive home matchups for the Goats, as on July 11th they will host the Iowa Woo, the team that beat them to keep them out of the championship game in their inaugural season in The Arena League in 2024.&nbsp;

All home matchups are currently scheduled to be played at 7:05pm.&nbsp; The game times, dates, and details are subject to change throughout the season.&nbsp; The Goats have announced several fan favorites are returning next year, as is head coach Dorsey Golston.&nbsp; Season tickets and single game tickets are available for purchase currently on the <a href="https://stjgoatsfootball.com/">St. Joseph Goats website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765481003265.jpeg" alt="The St. Joseph Goats will be back at Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph in 2026 and have released their schedule for the upcoming season/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Goats Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>The St. Joseph Goats will be back at Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph in 2026 and have released their schedule for the upcoming season/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Goats Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAfter their first season in St. Joseph ended disappointingly missing out on the playoffs, the St. Joseph Goats will be back at Civic Arena this spring looking for redemption, and a trip back to the playoffs .The Arena League officially announced the full schedule for the 2026 season, with the Goats set to open on the road on May 29th against the Arkansas Diamonds.&nbsp; The first home game for St. Joseph at Civic Arena will be on June 6th against the Ozark Lunkers.&nbsp;Of the nine weeks, the Goats will host four games and be on the road for the other five.&nbsp; The other three home games will he on June 20th against Grand Island, a new team to The Arena League out of Nebraska, yet to be named.&nbsp; On June 27th St. Joseph will host the Eau Claire Axemen.The final home game of the season will wrap up three consecutive home matchups for the Goats, as on July 11th they will host the Iowa Woo, the team that beat them to keep them out of the championship game in their inaugural season in The Arena League in 2024.&nbsp;All home matchups are currently scheduled to be played at 7:05pm.&nbsp; The game times, dates, and details are subject to change throughout the season.&nbsp; The Goats have announced several fan favorites are returning next year, as is head coach Dorsey Golston.&nbsp; Season tickets and single game tickets are available for purchase currently on the <a href="https://stjgoatsfootball.com/">St. Joseph Goats website</a>.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Goats release schedule for upcoming season at Civic Arena

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1Imcv6lVTLZC5ZkGNBjZSa?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

A Missouri Western State University Hall of Fame football coach and the winningest coach in MoWest football history is a head coach once again.

Jerry Partridge has been named the new head football coach at Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Partridge spent the last three seasons as the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator at University of Tennessee at Martin. He was a defensive coordinator for Delta State and Northern Arizona between 2017 and 2022.

The longtime Griffons head coach was at MoWest from 1997 until 2016. He compiled a 149-83 record at MoWest and led the team to two conference titles, six bowl games, and four NCAA playoff appearances.

A Missouri Western State University Hall of Fame football coach and the winningest coach in MoWest football history is a head coach once again.Jerry Partridge has been named the new head football coach at Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Partridge spent the last three seasons as the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator at University of Tennessee at Martin. He was a defensive coordinator for Delta State and Northern Arizona between 2017 and 2022.The longtime Griffons head coach was at MoWest from 1997 until 2016. He compiled a 149-83 record at MoWest and led the team to two conference titles, six bowl games, and four NCAA playoff appearances.

Longtime MoWest coach Partridge new leader at Northwestern Oklahoma State

The Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals both got reprieve from the rumors swirling around both teams during the MLB Winter Meetings, learning where they will be picking next summer in the 2026 MLB Draft during All Star Weekend.&nbsp;

For the first time, the Royals were big winners in the MLB's lottery system, as they were awarded the number six pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City entered the day with 13th best odds at landing top pick in the draft, a 0.8% chance. If the Royals hadn’t gotten a lottery pick, they would have picked 16th.

Non-lottery picks are determined by inverse order of the teams’ regular-season records, and there were three teams, the Angels, Rockies and Nationals, that weren’t eligible for the lottery this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Royals have selected sixth two other times in their history, including Zack Greinke in 2002 and Caglianone in 2024.

With the Draft Lottery completed, the Draft order is set. In addition to No. 6, the Royals will also have a Competitive Balance A pick next year at No. 30. The 2026 Draft will be held July 12 in Philadelphia as part of All-Star festivities, and the White Sox will be making the number one overall pick.

The Cardinals&nbsp;drew the #13 pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis went into Tuesday with MLB’s eighth-best odds for the top pick, 2.35%, but they dropped below the Rockies and Nationals. It is the second time in three seasons the Cards fell below their slot in the odds. In 2023, they fell from the fifth-best odds to number seven where they landed infielder JJ Wetherholt.

The Draft Lottery was a reprieve from the numerous trade talks the Cards front office have had with other teams interested in dealing for their established veterans. Nolan Arenado and Willson Contreras are the biggest names possibly on the move, but standout utility fielder Brendan Donovan has drawn interest from 18 MLB teams, per a source. 

The Mariners, Royals, Astros and Rays have been the most aggressive suitors, per that same source, but the Cardinals want to be diligent in dealing to make sure they extract the maximum prospect capital in return for their lone All-Star in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not far behind Donovan, in terms of interest from other clubs, is lefty reliever JoJo Romero, who is drawing interest from the Yankees, Rays, Astros, Tigers and D-backs, per a source.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765387555016.jpeg" alt="The Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals learned their slot in the 2026 MLB Draft during Tuesday's MLB Draft Lottery during the MLB Winter Meetings/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals learned their slot in the 2026 MLB Draft during Tuesday's MLB Draft Lottery during the MLB Winter Meetings/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals both got reprieve from the rumors swirling around both teams during the MLB Winter Meetings, learning where they will be picking next summer in the 2026 MLB Draft during All Star Weekend.&nbsp;For the first time, the Royals were big winners in the MLB's lottery system, as they were awarded the number six pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City entered the day with 13th best odds at landing top pick in the draft, a 0.8% chance. If the Royals hadn’t gotten a lottery pick, they would have picked 16th.Non-lottery picks are determined by inverse order of the teams’ regular-season records, and there were three teams, the Angels, Rockies and Nationals, that weren’t eligible for the lottery this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Royals have selected sixth two other times in their history, including Zack Greinke in 2002 and Caglianone in 2024.With the Draft Lottery completed, the Draft order is set. In addition to No. 6, the Royals will also have a Competitive Balance A pick next year at No. 30. The 2026 Draft will be held July 12 in Philadelphia as part of All-Star festivities, and the White Sox will be making the number one overall pick.The Cardinals&nbsp;drew the #13 pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis went into Tuesday with MLB’s eighth-best odds for the top pick, 2.35%, but they dropped below the Rockies and Nationals. It is the second time in three seasons the Cards fell below their slot in the odds. In 2023, they fell from the fifth-best odds to number seven where they landed infielder JJ Wetherholt.The Draft Lottery was a reprieve from the numerous trade talks the Cards front office have had with other teams interested in dealing for their established veterans. Nolan Arenado and Willson Contreras are the biggest names possibly on the move, but standout utility fielder Brendan Donovan has drawn interest from 18 MLB teams, per a source. The Mariners, Royals, Astros and Rays have been the most aggressive suitors, per that same source, but the Cardinals want to be diligent in dealing to make sure they extract the maximum prospect capital in return for their lone All-Star in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not far behind Donovan, in terms of interest from other clubs, is lefty reliever JoJo Romero, who is drawing interest from the Yankees, Rays, Astros, Tigers and D-backs, per a source.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals and Cardinals learn their slot in the 2026 MLB Draft

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2RvMFjpOattuME22fNjHvH?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

The third annual Bill Snyder Classic brought a thrilling matchup to Civic Arena, ending in an upset win for the Kansas State women over the Ole Miss Rebels.  

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says while the crowd wasn't quite what he had hoped for, still about 1,600 people showed up despite the game being played on a Sunday, rather than the usual Saturday.   

Esely says the game next year though, which is already scheduled, will return to Saturday, stating that Sunday events in St. Joe are hard to plan for 

"In my experience in event management now 20 plus years, Sunday afternoons have always been a tough draw sporting event wise here,” Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “I think this time of year, certainly we didn’t go opposite the Chiefs timewise, but we were sensitive to that, we weren’t going to schedule during a Chiefs game, that’s probably not a good plan of attack here.” 

Esely says knowing Kansas State has options of where to play these non-conference matchups, the commission always treats this event like it’s the first one 

"We do make sure the hospitality is at a very high level for any event we host, let alone we host, because these are division one travel parties that have a high level of expectation,” Esely explains.  “And anywhere they go I feel like they are showered with some level of hospitality that we want to make sure the hospitality level is as good here as they get anywhere else, they go play at any other time across the country.” 

Even with three years in the books now of the event, Esely still feels like improvements can be made.  Esely says specifically there can be improvements in how they market the matchup coming to St. Joseph 

"Making sure that the publicity for this game is as it should be, we’re also sensitive to ticket prices as well,” Esely says.  “I think our tickets were priced as they should have been for an event like this, given we had a premium option, but we also had a $10 option to get in the door as well, but we certainly don’t want that to be a deterrent for anybody that wants to attend the game.” 

Esely says Kansas State will return to Civic Arena for a fourth Bill Snyder Classic but is not quite ready to announce the opponent.   

The announcement of the Wildcats opponent will hopefully be out around next spring. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765311477646.jpeg" alt="While the crowd wasn't what was hoped for, St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely still considers the third annual Bill Snyder Classic at Civic Arena a successful event/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission" />
 <figcaption>While the crowd wasn't what was hoped for, St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely still considers the third annual Bill Snyder Classic at Civic Arena a successful event/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe third annual Bill Snyder Classic brought a thrilling matchup to Civic Arena, ending in an upset win for the Kansas State women over the Ole Miss Rebels. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says while the crowd wasn't quite what he had hoped for, still about 1,600 people showed up despite the game being played on a Sunday, rather than the usual Saturday. Esely says the game next year though, which is already scheduled, will return to Saturday, stating that Sunday events in St. Joe are hard to plan for "In my experience in event management now 20 plus years, Sunday afternoons have always been a tough draw sporting event wise here,” Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I think this time of year, certainly we didn’t go opposite the Chiefs timewise, but we were sensitive to that, we weren’t going to schedule during a Chiefs game, that’s probably not a good plan of attack here.” Esely says knowing Kansas State has options of where to play these non-conference matchups, the commission always treats this event like it’s the first one "We do make sure the hospitality is at a very high level for any event we host, let alone we host, because these are division one travel parties that have a high level of expectation,” Esely explains. “And anywhere they go I feel like they are showered with some level of hospitality that we want to make sure the hospitality level is as good here as they get anywhere else, they go play at any other time across the country.” Even with three years in the books now of the event, Esely still feels like improvements can be made. Esely says specifically there can be improvements in how they market the matchup coming to St. Joseph "Making sure that the publicity for this game is as it should be, we’re also sensitive to ticket prices as well,” Esely says. “I think our tickets were priced as they should have been for an event like this, given we had a premium option, but we also had a $10 option to get in the door as well, but we certainly don’t want that to be a deterrent for anybody that wants to attend the game.” Esely says Kansas State will return to Civic Arena for a fourth Bill Snyder Classic but is not quite ready to announce the opponent. The announcement of the Wildcats opponent will hopefully be out around next spring. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bill Snyder Classic a success, but improvements can still be made

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5gbgp1tXT37iUQjX0XBxFR?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

While there is still a chance, the lights are beginning to dim on the Kansas City Chiefs making an 11th consecutive trip to the playoffs after a series of miscues led to a 20-10 loss the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football.

&nbsp;Some odds have the Chiefs chances as low as 12% to make the playoffs, others are around 16%, but most are below the 20% chance mark.&nbsp; Despite the low odds, defensive tackle Chris Jones says they still have an opportunity, even if it is a slim opportunity

"Still got an opportunity, and we've got to finish strong, no matter what we've got to finish strong to put ourself in a position to be able to get in the playoffs if that opportunity presents itself," Jones says during his postgame press conference.&nbsp; "So, for us the door is still open, it might be a 10% chance, it might be a 5% chance, but as long as we've got an opportunity and a chance, then we still can control that and finish strong and let the cards fall where they fall."

Head Coach Andy Reid says the message to the team after the loss is that it's never over

"You keep battling, I've been doing this a long time, seen some things, so you keep going," Reid says.

The loss did end Kansas City's streak of nine consecutive AFC West titles, the second longest streak in NFL history.&nbsp; &nbsp;With a run of success close to ending, linebacker Nick Bolton says the team needs to respond to this loss by controlling the controllable.&nbsp;

"We've got four weeks left, one week at a time, we need some help from other people but my mindset is put our best foot forward and take care of what we can control," Bolton says in the locker room.

Leo Chenal echoes that sentiment, saying now it's all up to them.

"Message is go out and play top level football as best you can, with the best effort you can, at the highest level you can regardless," Chenal explains.&nbsp; "Whatever happens, we better be out there playing our hardest, especially now, it's not in our hands but we better be playing our hardest."

The Chiefs fell behind 10-0 at the halftime break thanks to a 35 yard field goal by Ka'imi Fairbairn and a nine yard touchdown pass from CJ Stroud to Woody Marks.&nbsp; On the first play of the game, an already thin offensive line for Kansas City got thinner, as Wanya Morris exited the game with a knee injury.&nbsp; Also in the first quarter, cornerback Trent McDuffie suffered a knee injury that put him out of the game.&nbsp;

Despite the injuries, and some miscues in the first half including an interception and a missed field goal, the Chiefs came back to tie the game in the third quarter.&nbsp; Kareem Hunt rushed in from two yards out on a 4th and 1 play to cut the lead to three early in the quarter, and then near the end of the frame Harrison Butker hit a 36 yard field goal to tie the game heading into the final quarter.&nbsp;

But after a quarter of execution to tie the game, things fell apart in the fourth for Kansas City.&nbsp; Patrick Mahomes threw his second interception of the game early in the quarter, which did turn into a punt from Houston, but then a turnover on downs from the Chiefs gave the Texans the chance to score the go ahead touchdown on a five yard run by Dare Ogunbowale.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trailing by a touchdown, Kansas City turned the ball over on downs again, and Houston would end up punting the ball back, but again Mahomes threw an interception, the ball bouncing off the hands of Travis Kelce and into linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair.&nbsp; Fairbairn knocked through a 28 yard field goal to put the Texans up by two scores with 30 seconds remaining, and after three plays with no timeouts from the Chiefs, the game came to an end.&nbsp;

Mahomes was 14-of-33 through the air for 160 yards with three interceptions, adding seven rushes for 59 yards.&nbsp; Hunt rushed 12 times for 30 yards and the score.&nbsp; Xavier Worthy had three catches for 59 yards, while Rashee Rice was the leading receiver with four catches for 34 yards.&nbsp;

The Chiefs will host the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday in an AFC West battle with a lot on the line.  A loss in that matchup, and their run to the AFC playoffs could come to an end.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at noon with an 11am pregame on Q Country (92.7FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765164441878.png" alt="The Kansas City Chiefs defense stepped up in the second half, but the offense failed to execute and saw their playoff hopes dwindle more with a 20-10 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Chiefs defense stepped up in the second half, but the offense failed to execute and saw their playoff hopes dwindle more with a 20-10 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEWhile there is still a chance, the lights are beginning to dim on the Kansas City Chiefs making an 11th consecutive trip to the playoffs after a series of miscues led to a 20-10 loss the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football.&nbsp;Some odds have the Chiefs chances as low as 12% to make the playoffs, others are around 16%, but most are below the 20% chance mark.&nbsp; Despite the low odds, defensive tackle Chris Jones says they still have an opportunity, even if it is a slim opportunity"Still got an opportunity, and we've got to finish strong, no matter what we've got to finish strong to put ourself in a position to be able to get in the playoffs if that opportunity presents itself," Jones says during his postgame press conference.&nbsp; "So, for us the door is still open, it might be a 10% chance, it might be a 5% chance, but as long as we've got an opportunity and a chance, then we still can control that and finish strong and let the cards fall where they fall."Head Coach Andy Reid says the message to the team after the loss is that it's never over"You keep battling, I've been doing this a long time, seen some things, so you keep going," Reid says.The loss did end Kansas City's streak of nine consecutive AFC West titles, the second longest streak in NFL history.&nbsp; &nbsp;With a run of success close to ending, linebacker Nick Bolton says the team needs to respond to this loss by controlling the controllable.&nbsp;"We've got four weeks left, one week at a time, we need some help from other people but my mindset is put our best foot forward and take care of what we can control," Bolton says in the locker room.Leo Chenal echoes that sentiment, saying now it's all up to them."Message is go out and play top level football as best you can, with the best effort you can, at the highest level you can regardless," Chenal explains.&nbsp; "Whatever happens, we better be out there playing our hardest, especially now, it's not in our hands but we better be playing our hardest."The Chiefs fell behind 10-0 at the halftime break thanks to a 35 yard field goal by Ka'imi Fairbairn and a nine yard touchdown pass from CJ Stroud to Woody Marks.&nbsp; On the first play of the game, an already thin offensive line for Kansas City got thinner, as Wanya Morris exited the game with a knee injury.&nbsp; Also in the first quarter, cornerback Trent McDuffie suffered a knee injury that put him out of the game.&nbsp;Despite the injuries, and some miscues in the first half including an interception and a missed field goal, the Chiefs came back to tie the game in the third quarter.&nbsp; Kareem Hunt rushed in from two yards out on a 4th and 1 play to cut the lead to three early in the quarter, and then near the end of the frame Harrison Butker hit a 36 yard field goal to tie the game heading into the final quarter.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">KAREEM MUSCLES IT IN 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/Kareemhunt7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kareemhunt7</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProBowlVote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProBowlVote</a> <a href="https://t.co/t5eFX8Kees">pic.twitter.com/t5eFX8Kees</a>&mdash; Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1997866525181809078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>But after a quarter of execution to tie the game, things fell apart in the fourth for Kansas City.&nbsp; Patrick Mahomes threw his second interception of the game early in the quarter, which did turn into a punt from Houston, but then a turnover on downs from the Chiefs gave the Texans the chance to score the go ahead touchdown on a five yard run by Dare Ogunbowale.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trailing by a touchdown, Kansas City turned the ball over on downs again, and Houston would end up punting the ball back, but again Mahomes threw an interception, the ball bouncing off the hands of Travis Kelce and into linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair.&nbsp; Fairbairn knocked through a 28 yard field goal to put the Texans up by two scores with 30 seconds remaining, and after three plays with no timeouts from the Chiefs, the game came to an end.&nbsp;Mahomes was 14-of-33 through the air for 160 yards with three interceptions, adding seven rushes for 59 yards.&nbsp; Hunt rushed 12 times for 30 yards and the score.&nbsp; Xavier Worthy had three catches for 59 yards, while Rashee Rice was the leading receiver with four catches for 34 yards.&nbsp;The Chiefs will host the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday in an AFC West battle with a lot on the line. A loss in that matchup, and their run to the AFC playoffs could come to an end.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at noon with an 11am pregame on Q Country (92.7FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs fail to execute and fall to Texans 20-10 making playoff hopes dwindle more

 The Benedictine Ravens football team advanced to its second straight NAIA Football Championship Series Semifinal with a 24-18 win over Friends University on the road in Wichita, Kansas.

Trey Williams deflected a pitch in the backfield and recovered the ball with three seconds remaining on the game on a fourth-down play by Friends to seal the win for Benedictine. 

Benedictine jumped out to a 10-0 lead over Friends by the end of the first quarter. The Ravens scored on their opening drive of 74 yards in six plays as Xavier Ugorgi scored on a 39-yard rush. After Christian Klobe converted his first PAT, he added a 22-yard field goals with 22 seconds in the quarter to extend the Ravens lead.

Each team scored in the second quarter, first with K'Vonte Baker throwing a 35 yard touchdown pass to Austin Pratt, then the Ravens scoring less than a minute off the Falcons touchdown. Jackson Dooley connected on a 49-yard pass to Titan Osborn that capped off a two play, 56 yard drive to give Benedictine a 17-7 lead with 10:31 left in the half, a lead they would end up holding into the halftime break.

In the second half, Dooley connected on his second passing touchdown of the game, this time to Isaiah Hasten, on a 13-yard pass with 4:02 left in the third quarter to extend the lead. Friends answered with 15 seconds left in the third, a five yard run from Baker, and after a successful two point conversion, again with a run by Baker, trailed Benedictine 24-15 headed into the fourth quarter.

The Falcons scored the only points of the fourth quarter on a 37-yard field goal, and that's where the game ended offensively.&nbsp; Friends entered the game on Saturday against the Ravens with the top rushing offense in the NAIA at 473.0 yards per game and the best scoring average in the NAIA at 57.7 points per game. The Ravens limited them to their lowest scoring total since Second Round loss to Grand View on Nov. 30, 2024. The Falcons finished with 338 yards rushing on 64 carries, also their lowest since the season-ending loss last year to Grand View.

Ugorgji finished with 153 of Benedictine's 203 rushing yards on 18 carries to earn the Offensive Player of the Game honors. Dooley went 12 of 21 for 149 yards with two touchdowns while Osburn finished with 56 yards on three receptions with a score.&nbsp; Tanner Zimmerman had three catches for 36 yards

The Ravens advance to the NAIA Football Championship Semifinals on Dec. 13, where they will travel to Des Moines, Iowa, to take top-seeded Grand View University for a chance to play in the NAIA National Championship Game in Fort Worth, Texas on Dec. 20. Kickoff time for the Ravens and Vikings Semifinal has not been set. 

Benedictine traveled to Grand View during week one this season with the Vikings holding on for a 27-24 win.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765083930041.jpeg" alt="The Benedictine Ravens defense takes downs Friends University quarterback K'Vonte Baker during the Ravens 24-18 win on Saturday.&nbsp; Benedictine advances to their second consecutive NAIA Semifinals appearance next week against Grandview/ Photo courtesy of Todd Nugent-Benedictine Athletics" />
 <figcaption>The Benedictine Ravens defense takes downs Friends University quarterback K'Vonte Baker during the Ravens 24-18 win on Saturday.&nbsp; Benedictine advances to their second consecutive NAIA Semifinals appearance next week against Grandview/ Photo courtesy of Todd Nugent-Benedictine Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post The Benedictine Ravens football team advanced to its second straight NAIA Football Championship Series Semifinal with a 24-18 win over Friends University on the road in Wichita, Kansas.Trey Williams deflected a pitch in the backfield and recovered the ball with three seconds remaining on the game on a fourth-down play by Friends to seal the win for Benedictine. Benedictine jumped out to a 10-0 lead over Friends by the end of the first quarter. The Ravens scored on their opening drive of 74 yards in six plays as Xavier Ugorgi scored on a 39-yard rush. After Christian Klobe converted his first PAT, he added a 22-yard field goals with 22 seconds in the quarter to extend the Ravens lead.Each team scored in the second quarter, first with K'Vonte Baker throwing a 35 yard touchdown pass to Austin Pratt, then the Ravens scoring less than a minute off the Falcons touchdown. Jackson Dooley connected on a 49-yard pass to Titan Osborn that capped off a two play, 56 yard drive to give Benedictine a 17-7 lead with 10:31 left in the half, a lead they would end up holding into the halftime break.In the second half, Dooley connected on his second passing touchdown of the game, this time to Isaiah Hasten, on a 13-yard pass with 4:02 left in the third quarter to extend the lead. Friends answered with 15 seconds left in the third, a five yard run from Baker, and after a successful two point conversion, again with a run by Baker, trailed Benedictine 24-15 headed into the fourth quarter.The Falcons scored the only points of the fourth quarter on a 37-yard field goal, and that's where the game ended offensively.&nbsp; Friends entered the game on Saturday against the Ravens with the top rushing offense in the NAIA at 473.0 yards per game and the best scoring average in the NAIA at 57.7 points per game. The Ravens limited them to their lowest scoring total since Second Round loss to Grand View on Nov. 30, 2024. The Falcons finished with 338 yards rushing on 64 carries, also their lowest since the season-ending loss last year to Grand View.Ugorgji finished with 153 of Benedictine's 203 rushing yards on 18 carries to earn the Offensive Player of the Game honors. Dooley went 12 of 21 for 149 yards with two touchdowns while Osburn finished with 56 yards on three receptions with a score.&nbsp; Tanner Zimmerman had three catches for 36 yardsThe Ravens advance to the NAIA Football Championship Semifinals on Dec. 13, where they will travel to Des Moines, Iowa, to take top-seeded Grand View University for a chance to play in the NAIA National Championship Game in Fort Worth, Texas on Dec. 20. Kickoff time for the Ravens and Vikings Semifinal has not been set. Benedictine traveled to Grand View during week one this season with the Vikings holding on for a 27-24 win.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PhASX6JcolU?si=hPa791hB7b3heR4L" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Benedictine returns to NAIA semifinals with 24-18 win over Friends

As promised, 14 of the best football teams from around the state of Missouri came to St. Joseph and put on seven great football games at Spratt Memorial Stadium at Missouri Western Stadium over the last three days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The MSHSAA Show Me Bowl wrapped up on Saturday, with action from Classes 2, 4, and 6.&nbsp; The seven games over the three days of the event drew in several football fans from around the St. Joseph area, as well as several fans that followed their teams from all across the state, as far as the southwest part.&nbsp;

The action started on Thursday with the 8-man championship game between two teams from northwest Missouri, the Worth County Tigers and the Rock Port Blue Jays.&nbsp; A rematch of week one in the regular season, in which Rock Port won, Worth County came out on top 56-46, earning their first state title since 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Friday, the odd classes battled.&nbsp; Class 3 took the field first with the Seneca Indians and Lift for Life Academy Hawks.&nbsp; The Indians held the lead throughout a tough battle, earning a 33-26 win, and their first state title since 1995 in their third consecutive trip to the championship game.&nbsp; Northwest Missouri featured again in the second game of Friday, with the Putnam County Midgets taking on the Tipton Cardinals.&nbsp; The Cardinals held the Midgets scoreless in the second half on way to a 39-14 win, for their first state championship in their first ever trip to the state title game.

Friday wrapped up with what may have been the best game of the weekend, again featuring northwest Missouri as the Platte County Pirates faced the Carthage Tigers.&nbsp; The two teams battled, the Pirates leading 21-7 at one point, before going to halftime tied at 21, ending up needing overtime for a 34-28 win for Platte County.&nbsp; It was the Pirates second consecutive state title.&nbsp; Also in the game, senior and Northwest Missouri State commit Adam Gisler ran for a 98 yard touchdown, which is the longest in MSHSAA Show Me Bowl history.

Saturday opened with the Class 4 championship game between the Kearney Bulldogs and the Hannibal Pirates.&nbsp; The Bulldogs retook the lead midway through the fourth quarter, winning 21-14 to take home another championship, after last winning one in 2023.&nbsp; The Class 2 championship between the Blair Oaks Falcons and St. Pius X Lancers of Festus was controlled by the Falcons from the opening quarter, scoring 31 in the second quarter, on way to a 59-0 win for their second consecutive championship.&nbsp;

Closing out the championships was another classic, between the Lee's Summit Tigers and the Nixa Eagles.&nbsp; Nixa led 28-21 at the halftime break, and both teams battled back and forth through the second half before the Tigers came away with a 41-37 win, earning their first state title in the programs history.&nbsp; In the game, standout running back Preston Hatfield had 457 rushing yards with four touchdowns, far surpassing the record held by Kyren Williams set in 2018 of 298 yards.

By MATT PIKEAs promised, 14 of the best football teams from around the state of Missouri came to St. Joseph and put on seven great football games at Spratt Memorial Stadium at Missouri Western Stadium over the last three days.&nbsp;&nbsp;The MSHSAA Show Me Bowl wrapped up on Saturday, with action from Classes 2, 4, and 6.&nbsp; The seven games over the three days of the event drew in several football fans from around the St. Joseph area, as well as several fans that followed their teams from all across the state, as far as the southwest part.&nbsp;The action started on Thursday with the 8-man championship game between two teams from northwest Missouri, the Worth County Tigers and the Rock Port Blue Jays.&nbsp; A rematch of week one in the regular season, in which Rock Port won, Worth County came out on top 56-46, earning their first state title since 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Friday, the odd classes battled.&nbsp; Class 3 took the field first with the Seneca Indians and Lift for Life Academy Hawks.&nbsp; The Indians held the lead throughout a tough battle, earning a 33-26 win, and their first state title since 1995 in their third consecutive trip to the championship game.&nbsp; Northwest Missouri featured again in the second game of Friday, with the Putnam County Midgets taking on the Tipton Cardinals.&nbsp; The Cardinals held the Midgets scoreless in the second half on way to a 39-14 win, for their first state championship in their first ever trip to the state title game.Friday wrapped up with what may have been the best game of the weekend, again featuring northwest Missouri as the Platte County Pirates faced the Carthage Tigers.&nbsp; The two teams battled, the Pirates leading 21-7 at one point, before going to halftime tied at 21, ending up needing overtime for a 34-28 win for Platte County.&nbsp; It was the Pirates second consecutive state title.&nbsp; Also in the game, senior and Northwest Missouri State commit Adam Gisler ran for a 98 yard touchdown, which is the longest in MSHSAA Show Me Bowl history.Saturday opened with the Class 4 championship game between the Kearney Bulldogs and the Hannibal Pirates.&nbsp; The Bulldogs retook the lead midway through the fourth quarter, winning 21-14 to take home another championship, after last winning one in 2023.&nbsp; The Class 2 championship between the Blair Oaks Falcons and St. Pius X Lancers of Festus was controlled by the Falcons from the opening quarter, scoring 31 in the second quarter, on way to a 59-0 win for their second consecutive championship.&nbsp;Closing out the championships was another classic, between the Lee's Summit Tigers and the Nixa Eagles.&nbsp; Nixa led 28-21 at the halftime break, and both teams battled back and forth through the second half before the Tigers came away with a 41-37 win, earning their first state title in the programs history.&nbsp; In the game, standout running back Preston Hatfield had 457 rushing yards with four touchdowns, far surpassing the record held by Kyren Williams set in 2018 of 298 yards.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.