Tigers defense dominant in shutout win over Murray State

The Missouri Tigers defense answered any questions people might have had on Thursday, holding Murray State to just 85 total yards and shutting out the Racers 51-0.&nbsp;

Missouri had a lot of pieces to replace on defense with the likes of Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Kris Abrams-Draine, Darius Robinson, and Ty'Ron Hopper going into the NFL, but didn't seem to miss a beat under new defensive coordinator Corey Batoon.

By the end of the first half, the Tigers led 35-0, getting offensive touchdowns from Luther Burden III, Nate Noel, Marcus Carroll, and a rushing touchdown from Brady Cook that came with just one second left on the clock.&nbsp; &nbsp;They also got a defensive touchdown on an outstanding pick six from Clemson transfer Toriano Pride Jr.

The second half scoring saw three field goals from freshman kicker Blake Craig, who was 3 for 3 on the day, and one rushing touchdown from another freshman in Jamal Roberts.

Another question coming into the season was how the Tigers would replace the production of running back Cody Schrader.&nbsp; Noel and Carroll showed they could carry that load, rushing for 48 and 35 yards respectively, while splitting carries and each scoring a touchdown.

Cook was 19 for 30 through the air for 218 yards and one touchdown, also scoring the rushing touchdown.&nbsp; Burden III had three catches for 39 yards while Theo Wease Jr added three catches for 30 yards.

The Tigers in week two will stay in Columbia, welcoming Buffalo to Faurot Field.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 6pm.&nbsp;

Second half comeback gives Griffons win over Northeastern State

A dominant second half comeback helped the Missouri Western Griffons erase a 17 point deficit, prevailing over Northeastern State in Tahlequah, Oklahoma 33-31.&nbsp;

The Griffons and Riverhawks traded blows in the first quarter, the biggest highlight for Missouri Western being a 43 yard rushing touchdown from senior Brandon Hall, as the quarter ended tied at 14.&nbsp;

But Northeastern State pulled ahead big in the second quarter, scoring 17 unanswered points, and leading the Griffons at halftime by a score of 31-14.

Missouri Western made the proper adjustments at halftime though, starting the second half with interceptions on back to back drives and also getting a fumble recovery from junior&nbsp;Kienen Gaskin, who also had an interception in the first half.&nbsp;

The Griffons scored off of each of those turnovers, the only touchdown being a 47 yard rushing touchdown from senior Tyler Carey, also getting two field goals from Cody Watson to come within four by the end of the third quarter.

Missouri Western would take the lead in the fourth on Hall's second touchdown of the day, a 67 yard romp into the endzone.&nbsp; Hall ended the night with a career high 185 yards rushing to go with his two scores.

Southeastern Oklahoma State transfer Kane Donovan received the nod at quarterback for Missouri Western. Donovan finished with 129 yards on 19-of-32 passing with a touchdown and two interceptions. His top target, senior Jonas Bennett, tallied eight catches for 72 yards, while sophomore Jayden Williams snagged the lone receiving touchdown for MWSU in the first half.

The Griffons are on the road again in week two as they travel to Hays, Kansas to take on Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.

Northwest falls to Minnesota State in Top 25 matchup

For the first time in 13 years the #22 Northwest Missouri State Bearcats fell in their season opener, losing in a top 25 battle to #13 Minnesota State 36-22 at Bearcat Stadium.&nbsp;

The Mavericks bolted out to a 29-0 lead before the Bearcats could come up with an answer and rallied for 22 points to bring the game within seven.&nbsp;

The Minnesota State lead began to shrink when a bad snap on a punt sent the ball soaring out of the back of the endzone for a safety.&nbsp; One drive later, junior Chris Ruhnke would find fellow junior Andrew Bradley on a 43 yard touchdown pass.

A defensive stand to start the fourth quarter resulted in an interception in the endzone from Northwest's Tre'on Jones, and the Bearcats answered offensively with an 80 yard pass from Ruhnke to Luke Mathews.&nbsp;

After another defensive stand, with the Bearcats recovering a fumble on the 13 yard line, Ruhnke would find running back Tank Young for a score to bring the game within seven points.&nbsp;

The Mavericks would seal the game though with a touchdown with 3:46 remaining on the clock.&nbsp;

Ruhnke passed for a career high 268 yards going 15 for 24 through the air with three touchdowns and no interceptions.&nbsp; Mathews was his lead receiver with five catches for 140 yards and a score.

Northwest will hit the road in week two, traveling to Kearney, Nebraska for a matchup with Nebraska Kearney.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.

Big second quarter helps Kansas Jayhawks to win over Lindenwood

The #22 Kansas Jayhawks started a bit slow against Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park, but a big second quarter helped fuel a 48-3 win for the Crimson and Red.&nbsp;

The lone score in the first quarter was a rushing touchdown from Devin Neal, who went into the endzone nearly untouched from five yards out, coming with 9:44 on the clock.&nbsp;

Despite the slow start, the Jayhawks exploded in the second quarter for 27 points.&nbsp; Rushing scores from Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr., a pick six from Mello Dotson, and a big 53 yard pass from Jalon Daniels to Luke Grimm.&nbsp;

The touchdown pass from Daniels was his first since Sept. 23rd of last year.&nbsp; Daniels played three games last year before being ruled out the rest of the season with a back injury.

Leading 34-0 at the half, the Jayhawks turned to their backups for the second half, a touchdown rush coming from Sevion Morrison and a short four yard passing touchdown between Cole Ballard and&nbsp;Doug Emilien

Lindenwood's lone score was a 34 yard field goal from Logan Seibert with 6:12 left in the game.&nbsp;

Daniels was 9 of 15 through the air for 148 yards with one touchdown and one interception.&nbsp; Neal rushed eight times for 112 yards and two scores while Grimm was the leading receiver with six catches for 111 yards and a score.

The Jayhawks will travel in week two to Illinois.&nbsp; Kickoff is scheduled for 6pm and the game will be aired on FS1.

#19 Ravens knock off #10 Morningside in shootout victory

In a playoff worthy matchup to start the season, the #19 Benedictine Ravens 0utdueled the #10 Morningside University Mustangs coming out on top 48-45 in Sioux City, Iowa.&nbsp;

The Ravens got off to a fast start in the first, a pick six by Zachary LaCombe, a 40 yard touchdown run by JaShawn Todd, and a touchdown pass from Jackson Dooley to Jacob Gathright putting them up 21-3 at the end of the quarter.&nbsp;

But after a rushing score from&nbsp;Xavier Ugorji to start the second quarter for Benedictine, the Mustangs would start their comeback.&nbsp; A touchdown pass from Zack Chevalier to&nbsp;Lennx Brown, followed by a two yard rushing score by Ryan Cole would narrow the lead to 28-17 at halftime.&nbsp;

The Ravens extended their lead out of the break on another pick six, this time from&nbsp;Jackson Hoskins, but again Morningside would rally this time narrowing the lead to just five, touchdowns coming on a pass from Chevalier to&nbsp;Jakob Nelson and a rushing score from Brown.&nbsp;

The real shootout came in the fourth quarter, after a 24 yard field goal from Harry Balke for the Ravens, Chevalier would again find Brown in the endzone for the Mustangs, and then the ensuing two point conversion would be good, knotting the game up at 38 a piece.&nbsp;

Benedictine would take the lead back on another field goal from Balke, but then Morningside would take their first lead of the game, a two yard run from Cole, and the Ravens would get the ball back with 3:31 on the clock trailing 45-41.

Benedictine would use most all of that clock, their drive culminating in a 29 yard touchdown pass from Dooley to Gathright, leaving just 55 seconds for the Mustangs.&nbsp; A defensive stand at the Benedictine one yard line by the Ravens would end the game.

Dooley was 12 of 26 through the air for 244 yards and the two touchdowns while throwing no interceptions.&nbsp; While Todd and&nbsp;Ugorji scored the touchdowns, Dalton Witherspoon was the leading rusher with 19 runs for 96 yards.&nbsp; Gathright had three catches for 86 yards and the two scores.

The Ravens will return to Atchison for their next two games, the first coming in week two as they host William Penn.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 1pm.

Wildcats young offensive weapons shine against UT Martin

The #18 Kansas State Wildcats didn't miss a beat despite losing offensive coordinator Collin Klein and quarterback Will Howard, opening up the season with a 41-6 win over UT Martin.&nbsp;

After starting the Pop Tarts Bowl to end last season, sophomore Avery Johnson took the helm to start the season, and led the Wildcats to a score on their second offensive drive of the game.&nbsp; After a blocked punt on the ensuing drive, Kansas State led 14-0 at the end of one quarter.&nbsp;

Field goals from both UT Martin and Kanas State was all fans at Bill Snyder Memorial Stadium saw in the second quarter, leading to a 17-3 lead at the break.&nbsp;

And after two more field goals from both teams to start the scoring in the third, the Wildcats would see their first explosive play of the season from Johnson, completing a 44 yard pass to receiver Jayce Brown who made an outstanding diving catch.&nbsp; After Brown was ruled down at the one yard line, Colorado transfer running back Dylan Edwards would run for the score.

A passing touchdown from Johnson to Edwards and a rushing score from La'James White would cap the scoring in the fourth quarter on way to the win.&nbsp;

Johnson, in his first official regular season start, was 14 of 21 through the air for 153 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.&nbsp; DJ Giddens was the leading rusher, running for 124 yards on 13 carries.&nbsp; Brown caught five passes for 71 yards.

Kansas State will hit the road next week for a matchup with Tulane.&nbsp; Two seasons ago, the Green Wave pulled off a 17-10 upset win over the Wildcats in Manhattan.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 11am and the game will air on ESPN.

Prize recruit Dylan Raiola shines in Cornhuskers debut win over UTEP

Nebraska fans high hopes for five star recruit Dylan Raiola were satisfied as the true freshman looked efficient and sharp in the Cornhuskers season opening 40-7 win over UTEP at Memorial Stadium.&nbsp;

After the first quarter ended tied up at seven a piece, Nebraska getting a rushing touchdown from Dante Dowdell and UTEP scoring on a passing touchdown from Skyler Locklear to Kam Thomas, the Huskers offense would explode.&nbsp;

Nebraska would take the lead in the second on a safety, but after that would score touchdowns on their next three drives.&nbsp; Touchdown passes from Raiola to receivers&nbsp;Isaiah Neyor and&nbsp;Jahmal Banks, and a rushing score by Gabe Ervin Jr, would put Nebraska up 30-7 at halftime.

Ervin Jr would rush in for another touchdown in the third quarter.&nbsp; Kicker&nbsp;Tristan Alvano would knock through a 20 yard field goal to cap the scoring in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;

Raiola would finish the day going 19 for 27 through the air with 238 yards and two touchdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emmett Johnson was the leading rusher with eight runs for 71 yards, while Neyor led in receiving with six catches for 121 yards and his touchdown.&nbsp;

Week two will see Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes traveling to Lincoln to face Nebraska.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 6:30pm and the game will air on NBC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724997252814.jpeg" alt="Brady Cook throws a pass during Thursday's season opening 51-0 shutout win over Murray State/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou football on X" />
 <figcaption>Brady Cook throws a pass during Thursday's season opening 51-0 shutout win over Murray State/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostTHURSDAY MATCHUPSTigers defense dominant in shutout win over Murray StateThe Missouri Tigers defense answered any questions people might have had on Thursday, holding Murray State to just 85 total yards and shutting out the Racers 51-0.&nbsp;Missouri had a lot of pieces to replace on defense with the likes of Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Kris Abrams-Draine, Darius Robinson, and Ty'Ron Hopper going into the NFL, but didn't seem to miss a beat under new defensive coordinator Corey Batoon.By the end of the first half, the Tigers led 35-0, getting offensive touchdowns from Luther Burden III, Nate Noel, Marcus Carroll, and a rushing touchdown from Brady Cook that came with just one second left on the clock.&nbsp; &nbsp;They also got a defensive touchdown on an outstanding pick six from Clemson transfer Toriano Pride Jr.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">flashin’ the HANDS 😮‍💨<a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MizzouFootball</a> x 📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/SECNetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SECNetwork</a> <a href="https://t.co/EeY2pqHv65">pic.twitter.com/EeY2pqHv65</a>&mdash; Southeastern Conference (@SEC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SEC/status/1829334381061611775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The second half scoring saw three field goals from freshman kicker Blake Craig, who was 3 for 3 on the day, and one rushing touchdown from another freshman in Jamal Roberts.Another question coming into the season was how the Tigers would replace the production of running back Cody Schrader.&nbsp; Noel and Carroll showed they could carry that load, rushing for 48 and 35 yards respectively, while splitting carries and each scoring a touchdown.Cook was 19 for 30 through the air for 218 yards and one touchdown, also scoring the rushing touchdown.&nbsp; Burden III had three catches for 39 yards while Theo Wease Jr added three catches for 30 yards.The Tigers in week two will stay in Columbia, welcoming Buffalo to Faurot Field.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 6pm.&nbsp;Second half comeback gives Griffons win over Northeastern State<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724998437652.jpeg" alt="Senior running back Brandon Hall had a career high 185 yards rushing and two touchdowns in a 33-31 comeback win for Missouri Western/ Photo courtesy of Cole Weiberg of MWSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Senior running back Brandon Hall had a career high 185 yards rushing and two touchdowns in a 33-31 comeback win for Missouri Western/ Photo courtesy of Cole Weiberg of MWSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>A dominant second half comeback helped the Missouri Western Griffons erase a 17 point deficit, prevailing over Northeastern State in Tahlequah, Oklahoma 33-31.&nbsp;The Griffons and Riverhawks traded blows in the first quarter, the biggest highlight for Missouri Western being a 43 yard rushing touchdown from senior Brandon Hall, as the quarter ended tied at 14.&nbsp;But Northeastern State pulled ahead big in the second quarter, scoring 17 unanswered points, and leading the Griffons at halftime by a score of 31-14.Missouri Western made the proper adjustments at halftime though, starting the second half with interceptions on back to back drives and also getting a fumble recovery from junior&nbsp;Kienen Gaskin, who also had an interception in the first half.&nbsp;The Griffons scored off of each of those turnovers, the only touchdown being a 47 yard rushing touchdown from senior Tyler Carey, also getting two field goals from Cody Watson to come within four by the end of the third quarter.Missouri Western would take the lead in the fourth on Hall's second touchdown of the day, a 67 yard romp into the endzone.&nbsp; Hall ended the night with a career high 185 yards rushing to go with his two scores.Southeastern Oklahoma State transfer Kane Donovan received the nod at quarterback for Missouri Western. Donovan finished with 129 yards on 19-of-32 passing with a touchdown and two interceptions. His top target, senior Jonas Bennett, tallied eight catches for 72 yards, while sophomore Jayden Williams snagged the lone receiving touchdown for MWSU in the first half.The Griffons are on the road again in week two as they travel to Hays, Kansas to take on Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.Northwest falls to Minnesota State in Top 25 matchup<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725036977281.jpeg" alt="Chris Ruhnke (15) scrambles as he looks for a receiver/ Photo courtesy of Aaron Hare of Northwest Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Chris Ruhnke (15) scrambles as he looks for a receiver/ Photo courtesy of Aaron Hare of Northwest Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>For the first time in 13 years the #22 Northwest Missouri State Bearcats fell in their season opener, losing in a top 25 battle to #13 Minnesota State 36-22 at Bearcat Stadium.&nbsp;The Mavericks bolted out to a 29-0 lead before the Bearcats could come up with an answer and rallied for 22 points to bring the game within seven.&nbsp;The Minnesota State lead began to shrink when a bad snap on a punt sent the ball soaring out of the back of the endzone for a safety.&nbsp; One drive later, junior Chris Ruhnke would find fellow junior Andrew Bradley on a 43 yard touchdown pass.A defensive stand to start the fourth quarter resulted in an interception in the endzone from Northwest's Tre'on Jones, and the Bearcats answered offensively with an 80 yard pass from Ruhnke to Luke Mathews.&nbsp;After another defensive stand, with the Bearcats recovering a fumble on the 13 yard line, Ruhnke would find running back Tank Young for a score to bring the game within seven points.&nbsp;The Mavericks would seal the game though with a touchdown with 3:46 remaining on the clock.&nbsp;Ruhnke passed for a career high 268 yards going 15 for 24 through the air with three touchdowns and no interceptions.&nbsp; Mathews was his lead receiver with five catches for 140 yards and a score.Northwest will hit the road in week two, traveling to Kearney, Nebraska for a matchup with Nebraska Kearney.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.Big second quarter helps Kansas Jayhawks to win over Lindenwood<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725038450659.jpeg" alt="Kansas receiver Luke Grimm (11) caught six catches for 111 yards and a touchdown in the Jayhawks 48-3 win over Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park/ Photo courtesy of KU Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Kansas receiver Luke Grimm (11) caught six catches for 111 yards and a touchdown in the Jayhawks 48-3 win over Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park/ Photo courtesy of KU Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>The #22 Kansas Jayhawks started a bit slow against Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park, but a big second quarter helped fuel a 48-3 win for the Crimson and Red.&nbsp;The lone score in the first quarter was a rushing touchdown from Devin Neal, who went into the endzone nearly untouched from five yards out, coming with 9:44 on the clock.&nbsp;Despite the slow start, the Jayhawks exploded in the second quarter for 27 points.&nbsp; Rushing scores from Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr., a pick six from Mello Dotson, and a big 53 yard pass from Jalon Daniels to Luke Grimm.&nbsp;The touchdown pass from Daniels was his first since Sept. 23rd of last year.&nbsp; Daniels played three games last year before being ruled out the rest of the season with a back injury.Leading 34-0 at the half, the Jayhawks turned to their backups for the second half, a touchdown rush coming from Sevion Morrison and a short four yard passing touchdown between Cole Ballard and&nbsp;Doug EmilienLindenwood's lone score was a 34 yard field goal from Logan Seibert with 6:12 left in the game.&nbsp;Daniels was 9 of 15 through the air for 148 yards with one touchdown and one interception.&nbsp; Neal rushed eight times for 112 yards and two scores while Grimm was the leading receiver with six catches for 111 yards and a score.The Jayhawks will travel in week two to Illinois.&nbsp; Kickoff is scheduled for 6pm and the game will be aired on FS1.SATURDAY GAMES#19 Ravens knock off #10 Morningside in shootout victoryIn a playoff worthy matchup to start the season, the #19 Benedictine Ravens 0utdueled the #10 Morningside University Mustangs coming out on top 48-45 in Sioux City, Iowa.&nbsp;The Ravens got off to a fast start in the first, a pick six by Zachary LaCombe, a 40 yard touchdown run by JaShawn Todd, and a touchdown pass from Jackson Dooley to Jacob Gathright putting them up 21-3 at the end of the quarter.&nbsp;But after a rushing score from&nbsp;Xavier Ugorji to start the second quarter for Benedictine, the Mustangs would start their comeback.&nbsp; A touchdown pass from Zack Chevalier to&nbsp;Lennx Brown, followed by a two yard rushing score by Ryan Cole would narrow the lead to 28-17 at halftime.&nbsp;The Ravens extended their lead out of the break on another pick six, this time from&nbsp;Jackson Hoskins, but again Morningside would rally this time narrowing the lead to just five, touchdowns coming on a pass from Chevalier to&nbsp;Jakob Nelson and a rushing score from Brown.&nbsp;The real shootout came in the fourth quarter, after a 24 yard field goal from Harry Balke for the Ravens, Chevalier would again find Brown in the endzone for the Mustangs, and then the ensuing two point conversion would be good, knotting the game up at 38 a piece.&nbsp;Benedictine would take the lead back on another field goal from Balke, but then Morningside would take their first lead of the game, a two yard run from Cole, and the Ravens would get the ball back with 3:31 on the clock trailing 45-41.Benedictine would use most all of that clock, their drive culminating in a 29 yard touchdown pass from Dooley to Gathright, leaving just 55 seconds for the Mustangs.&nbsp; A defensive stand at the Benedictine one yard line by the Ravens would end the game.Dooley was 12 of 26 through the air for 244 yards and the two touchdowns while throwing no interceptions.&nbsp; While Todd and&nbsp;Ugorji scored the touchdowns, Dalton Witherspoon was the leading rusher with 19 runs for 96 yards.&nbsp; Gathright had three catches for 86 yards and the two scores.The Ravens will return to Atchison for their next two games, the first coming in week two as they host William Penn.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 1pm.Wildcats young offensive weapons shine against UT Martin<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725165211683.jpeg" alt="Jayce Brown reaches for a catch from quarterback Avery Johnson/ Photo courtesy of K State football on X" />
 <figcaption>Jayce Brown reaches for a catch from quarterback Avery Johnson/ Photo courtesy of K State football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>The #18 Kansas State Wildcats didn't miss a beat despite losing offensive coordinator Collin Klein and quarterback Will Howard, opening up the season with a 41-6 win over UT Martin.&nbsp;After starting the Pop Tarts Bowl to end last season, sophomore Avery Johnson took the helm to start the season, and led the Wildcats to a score on their second offensive drive of the game.&nbsp; After a blocked punt on the ensuing drive, Kansas State led 14-0 at the end of one quarter.&nbsp;Field goals from both UT Martin and Kanas State was all fans at Bill Snyder Memorial Stadium saw in the second quarter, leading to a 17-3 lead at the break.&nbsp;And after two more field goals from both teams to start the scoring in the third, the Wildcats would see their first explosive play of the season from Johnson, completing a 44 yard pass to receiver Jayce Brown who made an outstanding diving catch.&nbsp; After Brown was ruled down at the one yard line, Colorado transfer running back Dylan Edwards would run for the score.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The throw 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/avery2johnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@avery2johnson</a> The catch 😮 <a href="https://twitter.com/jaycebrownn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaycebrownn</a> The finish 👊 <a href="https://twitter.com/dylan_edwards02?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dylan_edwards02</a> <a href="https://t.co/jzNUDWIfyo">pic.twitter.com/jzNUDWIfyo</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1830052933586788368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>A passing touchdown from Johnson to Edwards and a rushing score from La'James White would cap the scoring in the fourth quarter on way to the win.&nbsp;Johnson, in his first official regular season start, was 14 of 21 through the air for 153 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.&nbsp; DJ Giddens was the leading rusher, running for 124 yards on 13 carries.&nbsp; Brown caught five passes for 71 yards.Kansas State will hit the road next week for a matchup with Tulane.&nbsp; Two seasons ago, the Green Wave pulled off a 17-10 upset win over the Wildcats in Manhattan.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 11am and the game will air on ESPN.Prize recruit Dylan Raiola shines in Cornhuskers debut win over UTEP<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725167673905.jpeg" alt="Dylan Raiola/ Photo courtesy of Nebraska Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Dylan Raiola/ Photo courtesy of Nebraska Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska fans high hopes for five star recruit Dylan Raiola were satisfied as the true freshman looked efficient and sharp in the Cornhuskers season opening 40-7 win over UTEP at Memorial Stadium.&nbsp;After the first quarter ended tied up at seven a piece, Nebraska getting a rushing touchdown from Dante Dowdell and UTEP scoring on a passing touchdown from Skyler Locklear to Kam Thomas, the Huskers offense would explode.&nbsp;Nebraska would take the lead in the second on a safety, but after that would score touchdowns on their next three drives.&nbsp; Touchdown passes from Raiola to receivers&nbsp;Isaiah Neyor and&nbsp;Jahmal Banks, and a rushing score by Gabe Ervin Jr, would put Nebraska up 30-7 at halftime.Ervin Jr would rush in for another touchdown in the third quarter.&nbsp; Kicker&nbsp;Tristan Alvano would knock through a 20 yard field goal to cap the scoring in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;Raiola would finish the day going 19 for 27 through the air with 238 yards and two touchdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emmett Johnson was the leading rusher with eight runs for 71 yards, while Neyor led in receiving with six catches for 121 yards and his touchdown.&nbsp;Week two will see Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes traveling to Lincoln to face Nebraska.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 6:30pm and the game will air on NBC.

CFB Roundup: Tigers defense dominates, Griffons comeback, Ravens win shootout

Week 1 of high school football in Missouri is now in the books. Below is a list of all of the games being played in the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area!

Tune into KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com) for Friday Night Lights with Matt Pike every Friday night of the regular season from 10- midnight. for scores and interviews with area coaches!

Benton&nbsp; 62&nbsp; Northeast Kansas City 12

Pleasant Hill 14&nbsp; Savannah 12&nbsp; &nbsp;

-Week 2: Bishop Leblond vs&nbsp;Schuyler County

East Buchanan 55&nbsp; Central (Kansas City) 14

-Week 2: Lathrop @&nbsp;	Christ Preparatory Academy (Kan.)

Lafayette County 45&nbsp; Hamilton (Penney) 6

-Week 2: Hamilton @&nbsp;Crest Ridge with Chilhowee

-Week 2: West Platte vs&nbsp;	Liberty (Mountain View)

-Week 2: St. Joseph Christian vs Sewartsville Osborn

-Week 2: Stewartsville-Osborn @ St. Joseph Christian

St. Joseph Central 45&nbsp; Winnetonka 19

Kansas high school football starts Sept. 6th

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWeek 1 of high school football in Missouri is now in the books. Below is a list of all of the games being played in the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area!Tune into KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com) for Friday Night Lights with Matt Pike every Friday night of the regular season from 10- midnight. for scores and interviews with area coaches!MECOak Grove 19&nbsp; Cameron 18-Week 2:&nbsp; Cameron @ WarrensburgBlair Oaks 61&nbsp; Maryville 12-Week 2: Maryville vs Pleasant HillLafayette 34&nbsp; Center 0-Week 2: Lafayette @ Richmond<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Lafayette-Head-Coach-Nate-Daugherty-e2nr0se/a-abgm42n" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Benton&nbsp; 62&nbsp; Northeast Kansas City 12-Week 2: Benton vs St. Joseph Central<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Benton-Head-Coach-Corey-Bertini-e2nr1fb/a-abgm4p5" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Pleasant Hill 14&nbsp; Savannah 12&nbsp; &nbsp;-Week 2: Savannah @ East BuchananChillicothe 40 Marshall 6-Week 2: Chillicothe @ KirksvilleBishop LeBlond 56 North Shelby 30-Week 2: Bishop Leblond vs&nbsp;Schuyler County<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Bishop-Leblond-Head-Coach-Chuck-Davis-e2nr0r8/a-abgm4h2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>KCIEast Buchanan 55&nbsp; Central (Kansas City) 14-Week 2: East Buchanan vs SavannahLathrop&nbsp; 27 Lexington&nbsp; 20-Week 2: Lathrop @&nbsp;	Christ Preparatory Academy (Kan.)Warsaw 33&nbsp; Lawson 0-Week 2: Lawson @&nbsp;Lafayette CountyMid-Buchanan 33&nbsp; Midway 12-Week 2: Mid-Buchanan vs LexingtonButler 30&nbsp; North Platte 20-Week 2: North Platte @ MilanLafayette County 45&nbsp; Hamilton (Penney) 6-Week 2: Hamilton @&nbsp;Crest Ridge with ChilhoweePlattsburg- Bye weekWeek 2: Plattsburg vs Knox CountyWest Platte 35 Polo 26-Week 2: West Platte vs&nbsp;	Liberty (Mountain View)GRC 11-man (East Division)Brookfield 35&nbsp; Trenton 14-Week 2: Trenton vs PoloSouth Harrison 36&nbsp; Milan 29Week 2: South Harrison @ Putnam CountyGallatin 30&nbsp; Maysville 27-Week 2: Maysville @ Brookfield-Week 2: Gallatin vs Marceline<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Gallatin-Head-Coach-Brock-Goodman-e2nr1db/a-abgm4ml" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>GRC 8-man (West Division)East Atchison 58&nbsp; King City 14-Week 2: King City vs Nodaway Valley-Week 2: East Atchison @ AlbanyNodaway Valley 42&nbsp; North Andrew 16-Week 2: North Andrew vs Dekalb-Week 2: Nodway Valley @ King CityPlatte Valley 12&nbsp; Worth County 6-Week 2: Worth County vs Mound City-Week 2: Platte Valley @ Princeton<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Platte-Valley-Head-Coach-Johnnie-Silkett-e2nr192/a-abgm4i6" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Stanberry 36&nbsp; Mound City 28-Week 2: Mound City @ Worth County-Week 2: Stanberry vs Rock Port<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Stanberry-Head-Coach-Shane-Hilton-e2nr1e2/a-abgm4ng" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>St. Joseph Christian 68&nbsp; Dekalb 8-Week 2: Dekalb @ North Andrew-Week 2: St. Joseph Christian vs Sewartsville Osborn275Albany 66&nbsp; Stewartville-Osborn 6-Week 2: Stewartsville-Osborn @ St. Joseph ChristianGreater KC SuburbanSt. Joseph Central 45&nbsp; Winnetonka 19-Week 2: St. Joseph Central @ Benton<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Central-Head-Coach-Sheldon-Farrell-e2nr18g/a-abgm4hd" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Northeast KansasKansas high school football starts Sept. 6th

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post Area Football Scoreboard August 30th-31st

Every Friday night during the high schooll football season tune into KFEQ for Friday Night Lights.&nbsp;

The show, hosted by Matt Pike, will bring you area scores, interviews with coaches, and more from 10pm to midnight on KFEQ 680 AM/ 95.3 FM

Throughout the night, you can also see live scores on St. Joseph Post, by clicking the Scoreboard tab, or by clicking <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/pages/high-school-football-scoreboard">HERE</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725034412235.png" alt="Friday Night Lights" />
 <figcaption>Friday Night Lights</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostEvery Friday night during the high schooll football season tune into KFEQ for Friday Night Lights.&nbsp;The show, hosted by Matt Pike, will bring you area scores, interviews with coaches, and more from 10pm to midnight on KFEQ 680 AM/ 95.3 FMThroughout the night, you can also see live scores on St. Joseph Post, by clicking the Scoreboard tab, or by clicking <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/pages/high-school-football-scoreboard">HERE</a>

Friday Night Lights takes the air tonight on KFEQ

Week 1 of high school football in Missouri is here. Below is a list of all of the games being played in the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area!

Benton vs Northeast Kansas City- Fri @ 7pm

Bishop LeBlond vs North Shelby- Fri @ 7pm

East Buchanan @ Central (Kansas City)- Sat @ noon

Hamilton (Penney) vs Lafayette County- Fri @ 7pm

Dekalb vs St. Joseph Christian- Fri @ 7pm

Stewartsville-Osborn vs Albany- Fri @ 7pm

St. Joseph Central vs Winnetonka- Fri @7pm

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWeek 1 of high school football in Missouri is here. Below is a list of all of the games being played in the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area!Tune into KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com) for Friday Night Lights with Matt Pike every Friday night of the regular season from 10- midnight. for scores and interviews with area coaches!MECCameron vs Oak Grove- Fri @ 7pmMaryville @ Blair Oaks- Fri @ 5:30pmLafayette vs Center- Fri @ 7pmBenton vs Northeast Kansas City- Fri @ 7pmSavannah vs Pleasant Hill- Fri @ 7pmChillicothe vs Marshall- Fri @ 7pmBishop LeBlond vs North Shelby- Fri @ 7pmKCIEast Buchanan @ Central (Kansas City)- Sat @ noonLathrop vs Lexington- Fri @ 7pmLawson vs Warsaw- Fri @ 7pmMid-Buchanan @ Midway- Fri @ 7pmNorth Platte vs Butler- Fri @ 7pmHamilton (Penney) vs Lafayette County- Fri @ 7pmPlattsburg- Bye weekWest Platte vs Polo- Fri @ 7pmGRC 11-man (East Division)Trenton vs Brookfield- Fri @ 7pmSouth Harrison vs Milan- Fri @7pmMaysville vs Gallatin -Fri @ 7pmGallatin @ Maysville- Fri @7pmGRC 8-man (West Division)King City @ East Atchison- Fri @ 7pmNorth Andrew @ West Nodaway- Fri @ 7pmWorth County @ Platte Valley- Fri @ 7pmStanberry @ Mound City- Fri @ 7pmSt. Joseph Christian @ Dekalb- Fri @ 7pm275Dekalb vs St. Joseph Christian- Fri @ 7pmPlatte Valley vs Worth County- Fri @ 7pmMound City vs Stanberry- Fri @ 7pmStewartsville-Osborn vs Albany- Fri @ 7pmGreater KC SuburbanSt. Joseph Central vs Winnetonka- Fri @7pmNortheast KansasKansas high school football starts Sept. 6th

Area High School Football schedule for August 29th-30th

In the heat of an intense battle at the top of the American League Central, the Royals fell a game back of the Cleveland Guardians, losing 7-5 on Wednesday afternoon.

A lead off home run from Michael Massey and another from Vinnie Pasquantino in the first inning put the Royals up early.&nbsp; Cleveland would narrow the lead to one run in the bottom half, Josh Naylor grounding out and scoring&nbsp;Andrés Giménez.

But the Royals would extend the lead in the third inning with another home run, this time off the bat of Bobby Witt Jr as the young phenom hit his 28th of the season to left field.&nbsp;

But the Guardians wouldn't go away, again narrowing the lead to one run in the fifth inning on a Steven Kwan single that drove in&nbsp;Jhonkensy Noel.&nbsp;

Kansas City would tack on another two runs the very next inning, an Adam Frazier single driving in the first run as MJ Melendez came across home plate.&nbsp; Two batters later Maikel Garcia, who pinch hit for Massey, would single to bring Paul DeJong in.&nbsp;

The Guardians Bo Naylor hit his 11th home run of the season to narrow the lead to two runs in the seventh inning.&nbsp; Josh Naylor would again narrow the lead to one run with a single scoring Steven Kwan before the game would become even on a single over the head of Witt Jr from Will Brennan that brought in&nbsp;Giménez.

The wheels would continue to fall off in the bottom of the seventh as&nbsp;Noel hit a line drive single to left field that Melendez struggled to field cleanly, scoring Josh Naylor from second base, giving the Guardians their first lead of the game.

A sacrifice fly from&nbsp;Giménez would give Cleveland an insurance run, scoring Lane Thomas who led off the inning being hit by a pitch from reliever Chris Stratton.

The Guardians would bring on&nbsp;Emmanuel Clase to close the game in the ninth, and despite a single from Witt Jr, Clase would notch his AL leading 39th save and lower his ERA to 0.58.

Lucas Erceg would be saddled with the loss, his first blown save and loss since joining the Royals, falling to 2-4 on the season.&nbsp; In the loss it was Pasquantino that led the way hitting going 4 for 5 with one RBI.&nbsp;

The Royals are now one game behind the Guardians for first place in the AL Central, but did take three of four games from them on the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Next up Kansas City travels to Houston to take on the Astros in a four game weekend series.&nbsp; The first game is on Thursday with Brady Singer scheduled to take on Hunter Brown.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:10pm with a 6:30 pregame on KFEQ.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostIn the heat of an intense battle at the top of the American League Central, the Royals fell a game back of the Cleveland Guardians, losing 7-5 on Wednesday afternoon.A lead off home run from Michael Massey and another from Vinnie Pasquantino in the first inning put the Royals up early.&nbsp; Cleveland would narrow the lead to one run in the bottom half, Josh Naylor grounding out and scoring&nbsp;Andrés Giménez.But the Royals would extend the lead in the third inning with another home run, this time off the bat of Bobby Witt Jr as the young phenom hit his 28th of the season to left field.&nbsp;But the Guardians wouldn't go away, again narrowing the lead to one run in the fifth inning on a Steven Kwan single that drove in&nbsp;Jhonkensy Noel.&nbsp;Kansas City would tack on another two runs the very next inning, an Adam Frazier single driving in the first run as MJ Melendez came across home plate.&nbsp; Two batters later Maikel Garcia, who pinch hit for Massey, would single to bring Paul DeJong in.&nbsp;The Guardians Bo Naylor hit his 11th home run of the season to narrow the lead to two runs in the seventh inning.&nbsp; Josh Naylor would again narrow the lead to one run with a single scoring Steven Kwan before the game would become even on a single over the head of Witt Jr from Will Brennan that brought in&nbsp;Giménez.The wheels would continue to fall off in the bottom of the seventh as&nbsp;Noel hit a line drive single to left field that Melendez struggled to field cleanly, scoring Josh Naylor from second base, giving the Guardians their first lead of the game.A sacrifice fly from&nbsp;Giménez would give Cleveland an insurance run, scoring Lane Thomas who led off the inning being hit by a pitch from reliever Chris Stratton.The Guardians would bring on&nbsp;Emmanuel Clase to close the game in the ninth, and despite a single from Witt Jr, Clase would notch his AL leading 39th save and lower his ERA to 0.58.Lucas Erceg would be saddled with the loss, his first blown save and loss since joining the Royals, falling to 2-4 on the season.&nbsp; In the loss it was Pasquantino that led the way hitting going 4 for 5 with one RBI.&nbsp;The Royals are now one game behind the Guardians for first place in the AL Central, but did take three of four games from them on the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;Next up Kansas City travels to Houston to take on the Astros in a four game weekend series.&nbsp; The first game is on Thursday with Brady Singer scheduled to take on Hunter Brown.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:10pm with a 6:30 pregame on KFEQ.

Royals fall one game back of Guardians in AL Central with 7-5 series ending loss

The Kansas City Royals survived the loss of their starting pitcher and a long rain delay, beating the Cleveland Guardians 2-1 on Tuesday night in Cleveland

The Royals took a two run lead in the top of the second inning thanks to third baseman Paul DeJong and his 23rd home run of the season, and his fifth as a Royal, as the ball soared over the right center field wall and drove in Salvador Perez.&nbsp;

Kansas City ran into their first problem in the bottom of the second inning as starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen was forced to leave the game after coming up injured covering first base on a double play.&nbsp; Lorenzen's injury was classified as a left hamstring strain.

Carlos Hernandez would come on in relief to finish the second, but after pitching a scoreless third inning would give up a run in the bottom of the fourth, Lane Thomas singling to score David Fry.

With the lead at one run more trouble struck as the skies opened up over Cleveland during the fifth inning and the rain started to fall, forcing the Royals and Guardians into a rain delay that lasted just over two hours.

As the game resumed at 9:40pm Central time in the bottom of the fifth, James McArthur would come on for Hernandez, striking out two of the three batters he faced as part of a 1-2-3 inning.&nbsp;

After a scoreless sixth inning for both teams, Kansas City would strike for three more runs in the top of the seventh.&nbsp; A single from Maikel Garcia scoring Garrett Hampson and advancing Adam Frazier to third.&nbsp; 

Then on a wild pitch from Scott Barlow, Frazier would come home extending the Royals lead to three.&nbsp; A Michael Massey single would score Garcia for the final run of the frame.&nbsp;

Kansas City would add one final run in the top of the ninth inning as Freddy Fermin singled and drove in Kyle Isbel.&nbsp;

McArthur, John Schreiber, Sam Long, and Chris Stratton combined for five scoreless, hitless innings and struck out five batters.&nbsp; McArthur earned the win, improving to 5-5 on the season.&nbsp;

With the win the Royals have now won three straight games and are now tied with the Guardians for first place in the AL Central.&nbsp; The Minnesota Twins fell to the Atlanta Braves 8-6 in 10 innings, pushing them to 2.5 games back of both teams.

Kansas City will wrap up the series with the Guardians on Wednesday before heading to Houston on Thursday.&nbsp; &nbsp;Michael Wacha will start against Tanner Bibee for Cleveland.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:10pm on KFEQ.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals survived the loss of their starting pitcher and a long rain delay, beating the Cleveland Guardians 2-1 on Tuesday night in ClevelandThe Royals took a two run lead in the top of the second inning thanks to third baseman Paul DeJong and his 23rd home run of the season, and his fifth as a Royal, as the ball soared over the right center field wall and drove in Salvador Perez.&nbsp;Kansas City ran into their first problem in the bottom of the second inning as starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen was forced to leave the game after coming up injured covering first base on a double play.&nbsp; Lorenzen's injury was classified as a left hamstring strain.Carlos Hernandez would come on in relief to finish the second, but after pitching a scoreless third inning would give up a run in the bottom of the fourth, Lane Thomas singling to score David Fry.With the lead at one run more trouble struck as the skies opened up over Cleveland during the fifth inning and the rain started to fall, forcing the Royals and Guardians into a rain delay that lasted just over two hours.As the game resumed at 9:40pm Central time in the bottom of the fifth, James McArthur would come on for Hernandez, striking out two of the three batters he faced as part of a 1-2-3 inning.&nbsp;After a scoreless sixth inning for both teams, Kansas City would strike for three more runs in the top of the seventh.&nbsp; A single from Maikel Garcia scoring Garrett Hampson and advancing Adam Frazier to third.&nbsp; Then on a wild pitch from Scott Barlow, Frazier would come home extending the Royals lead to three.&nbsp; A Michael Massey single would score Garcia for the final run of the frame.&nbsp;Kansas City would add one final run in the top of the ninth inning as Freddy Fermin singled and drove in Kyle Isbel.&nbsp;McArthur, John Schreiber, Sam Long, and Chris Stratton combined for five scoreless, hitless innings and struck out five batters.&nbsp; McArthur earned the win, improving to 5-5 on the season.&nbsp;With the win the Royals have now won three straight games and are now tied with the Guardians for first place in the AL Central.&nbsp; The Minnesota Twins fell to the Atlanta Braves 8-6 in 10 innings, pushing them to 2.5 games back of both teams.Kansas City will wrap up the series with the Guardians on Wednesday before heading to Houston on Thursday.&nbsp; &nbsp;Michael Wacha will start against Tanner Bibee for Cleveland.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:10pm on KFEQ.

Royals lose Lorenzen early but prevail over Guardians in 6-1 win

The Kansas City Royals swept a doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians in Cleveland on Monday.&nbsp;

The Royals took game one of the doubleheader early on in the afternoon, winning over the Guardians 4-3.&nbsp;

Kansas City fell behind 2-0 early after starting pitcher Cole Ragans struggled in the second inning.&nbsp; A walk, hit by pitch, and a single from Austin Hedges loaded the bases, before Ragans walked Steven Kwan for the first run.&nbsp; The second run came on a passed ball.&nbsp;

The Royals took the lead in the fourth inning on a three run home run from MJ Melendez.&nbsp; The call was originally a double, but after an umpire review was turned into the home run, giving the Royals a 3-2 lead.

After the Guardians would tie the game up in the bottom of the seventh inning, a single from Josh Naylor scoring Jose Ramirez, the Royals would snag the lead back on a solo home run from Bobby Witt Jr in the top of the eighth.&nbsp;

John Schreiber would earn the win in relief while Lucas Erceg would notch his eighth save of the season.&nbsp; Salvador Perez led all hitters in game one going 3 for 3 with a double, a walk, and one run scored.

The Royals offense was again on display in game two of the series as Salvador Perez homered twice in a 9-4 win.&nbsp;

Cleveland would again take the early lead in the game, this time in the first inning.&nbsp; A Jose Ramirez double would score Steven Kwan and&nbsp;Andrés Giménez.&nbsp; Ramirez would later score on a throwing error on a pickoff attempt from Royals starter Alec Marsh.&nbsp;

Trailing 3-0, Paul DeJong would get the Royals on the board in the top of the second, hitting his 22nd home run of the season and his fourth for Kansas City.&nbsp; A ground out from Perez in the third would narrow the lead more, driving in Maikel Garcia to make it a one run game.&nbsp;

The Royals would take their first lead of the second game in the fourth inning.&nbsp; A single from Garrett Hampson bringing DeJong home before a sacrifice fly from Garcia would score Dairon Blanco to give Kansas City a 4-3 lead.&nbsp;

The Guardians tied the game up in the bottom half of the inning on a home run from&nbsp;Daniel Schneemann.&nbsp; But Perez's first home run of the game in the fifth gave the Royals the lead once again, this time for good.&nbsp;

Perez's second home run came in the very next inning, a grand slam scoring the final four runs of the game.&nbsp; It was the 17th multi home run game of Perez's career, and his sixth grand slam, both tying George Brett and Frank White respectively for the most in franchise history.

Sam Long earned the win in relief, pitching 1.1 scoreless innings.&nbsp; Daniel Lynch pitched the final three innings to earn the first save of his career. Perez led all hitters once again in game two, going 2 for 4 with six RBI's.

With the two wins on Monday, Kansas City now sits just one game behind the Guardians for first place in the AL Central.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Royals continue their four game series against the Guardians on Tuesday.&nbsp; Michael Lorenzen will matchup with Gavin Williams in game three of the series.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:40pm with pregame at 5 on KFEQ.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724702925045.jpeg" alt="MJ Melendez celebrates after his three run home run in game one of a doubleheader/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>MJ Melendez celebrates after his three run home run in game one of a doubleheader/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals swept a doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians in Cleveland on Monday.&nbsp;The Royals took game one of the doubleheader early on in the afternoon, winning over the Guardians 4-3.&nbsp;Kansas City fell behind 2-0 early after starting pitcher Cole Ragans struggled in the second inning.&nbsp; A walk, hit by pitch, and a single from Austin Hedges loaded the bases, before Ragans walked Steven Kwan for the first run.&nbsp; The second run came on a passed ball.&nbsp;The Royals took the lead in the fourth inning on a three run home run from MJ Melendez.&nbsp; The call was originally a double, but after an umpire review was turned into the home run, giving the Royals a 3-2 lead.After the Guardians would tie the game up in the bottom of the seventh inning, a single from Josh Naylor scoring Jose Ramirez, the Royals would snag the lead back on a solo home run from Bobby Witt Jr in the top of the eighth.&nbsp;John Schreiber would earn the win in relief while Lucas Erceg would notch his eighth save of the season.&nbsp; Salvador Perez led all hitters in game one going 3 for 3 with a double, a walk, and one run scored.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724722422214.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Royals offense was again on display in game two of the series as Salvador Perez homered twice in a 9-4 win.&nbsp;Cleveland would again take the early lead in the game, this time in the first inning.&nbsp; A Jose Ramirez double would score Steven Kwan and&nbsp;Andrés Giménez.&nbsp; Ramirez would later score on a throwing error on a pickoff attempt from Royals starter Alec Marsh.&nbsp;Trailing 3-0, Paul DeJong would get the Royals on the board in the top of the second, hitting his 22nd home run of the season and his fourth for Kansas City.&nbsp; A ground out from Perez in the third would narrow the lead more, driving in Maikel Garcia to make it a one run game.&nbsp;The Royals would take their first lead of the second game in the fourth inning.&nbsp; A single from Garrett Hampson bringing DeJong home before a sacrifice fly from Garcia would score Dairon Blanco to give Kansas City a 4-3 lead.&nbsp;The Guardians tied the game up in the bottom half of the inning on a home run from&nbsp;Daniel Schneemann.&nbsp; But Perez's first home run of the game in the fifth gave the Royals the lead once again, this time for good.&nbsp;Perez's second home run came in the very next inning, a grand slam scoring the final four runs of the game.&nbsp; It was the 17th multi home run game of Perez's career, and his sixth grand slam, both tying George Brett and Frank White respectively for the most in franchise history.Sam Long earned the win in relief, pitching 1.1 scoreless innings.&nbsp; Daniel Lynch pitched the final three innings to earn the first save of his career. Perez led all hitters once again in game two, going 2 for 4 with six RBI's.With the two wins on Monday, Kansas City now sits just one game behind the Guardians for first place in the AL Central.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Royals continue their four game series against the Guardians on Tuesday.&nbsp; Michael Lorenzen will matchup with Gavin Williams in game three of the series.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:40pm with pregame at 5 on KFEQ.

Royals sweep doubleheader against Guardians in heat of AL Central race

Looking for some additional help in the wide receiver room, the Kansas City Chiefs decided to bring back a player who helped them to a Super Bowl win in the 2022 season.

On Monday, Kansas City agreed to a contract with wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.&nbsp; Smith-Schuster was released by the New England Patriots on August 9th.&nbsp; He was at practice with the Chiefs on Monday.

Smith-Schuster was the leading receiver for the Chiefs in that Super Bowl winning season, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns.&nbsp; It was his only season with Kansas City before signing a three year deal with the Patriots.

In just one season with New England he caught 29 passes for 260 yards and one touchdown in 11 games.

At wide receiver this season, the Chiefs added veteran free agent Marquise Brown and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round. Brown dislocated his shoulder in the preseason opener and his status for the Sept. 5 regular season opener against the Baltimore Ravens is in question.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658959286502.jpeg" alt="Juju Smith-Schuster (9) hauls in a sideline pass./ File photo from past Chiefs Training Camp" />
 <figcaption>Juju Smith-Schuster (9) hauls in a sideline pass./ File photo from past Chiefs Training Camp</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLooking for some additional help in the wide receiver room, the Kansas City Chiefs decided to bring back a player who helped them to a Super Bowl win in the 2022 season.On Monday, Kansas City agreed to a contract with wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.&nbsp; Smith-Schuster was released by the New England Patriots on August 9th.&nbsp; He was at practice with the Chiefs on Monday.Smith-Schuster was the leading receiver for the Chiefs in that Super Bowl winning season, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns.&nbsp; It was his only season with Kansas City before signing a three year deal with the Patriots.In just one season with New England he caught 29 passes for 260 yards and one touchdown in 11 games.At wide receiver this season, the Chiefs added veteran free agent Marquise Brown and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round. Brown dislocated his shoulder in the preseason opener and his status for the Sept. 5 regular season opener against the Baltimore Ravens is in question.

Return to the Kingdom: Chiefs sign wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster

A new class of individuals and one legendary team have been officially inducted into the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame.  

Two of those individuals are Charlie Shields and Dirck Clark, who had a large role in bringing Chiefs Training Camp to St. Joseph back in 2010.  

Both Chiefs President Mark Donovan and CEO Clark Hunt have said if it wasn't for Shields and Clark, the Chiefs would not be in St. Joe.  Shields says while that's nice to hear, it was a true team effort. 

"Not just myself, but Dirck Clark who was President of the Board of Governors at Missouri Western, a bunch of people made this happen and the Chiefs realize that and it's great that they recognize the accomplishment for this community," Shields tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post following the enshrinement ceremony. 

Shields says no one ever thought the Chiefs would be in St. Joseph for 14 years, but the way the community has embraced camp keeps them coming back.

One legendary St. Joseph basketball team has also found its way to its rightful place, among the greats in the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame. 

The 2007 Benton Girls basketball team made history, going an unprecedented 30-0 and winning a state championship, the first ever in Benton history. 

Current Benton Athletic Director and coach of that team Brett Goodwin says what made that group of girls so special was how determined they were on the court 

"There was no telling them that they can't do this, or they can't do that, they truly felt like every single time that they walked on the floor that they were better than everybody that they were going to play," Goodwin explains.  "And they did that by showing up every day, working hard, making no excuses, and just playing to the best of their abilities." 

The '07 Cardinals team was also inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame last year, but Goodwin says this one feels a bit more special having everyone who supported them in attendance.

Along with a new group of area athletes and coaches being inducted into the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, two individuals were also honored with awards. 

One of those awards was the Bill Snyder Woman of Impact Award, presented to Bishop LeBlond Volleyball Coach and Principal Kimberly Huss.  

Huss says she was honored to represent the community in being presented with the award.  

"I think I go quietly about my day just doing things with kids every day and didn't expect anything big like this," Huss says.  

Huss says she feels it's important to understand the impact that you have. . .  

"It stands as a great reminder for me of the work that I do every day to know that that is such an important part of lots of lives," Huss says.  

Also honored was Savannah's Charlie Phillips with the Special Olympics Area Athlete of the Year Phillips earned four medals during the Special Olympic World Games in Berlin.  

10 individuals and one team were enshrined into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724638029505.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Sports Commision Director Brett Esely speaks to a crowd gathered at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Sports Commision Director Brett Esely speaks to a crowd gathered at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A new class of individuals and one legendary team have been officially inducted into the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame. Two of those individuals are Charlie Shields and Dirck Clark, who had a large role in bringing Chiefs Training Camp to St. Joseph back in 2010. Both Chiefs President Mark Donovan and CEO Clark Hunt have said if it wasn't for Shields and Clark, the Chiefs would not be in St. Joe. Shields says while that's nice to hear, it was a true team effort. "Not just myself, but Dirck Clark who was President of the Board of Governors at Missouri Western, a bunch of people made this happen and the Chiefs realize that and it's great that they recognize the accomplishment for this community," Shields tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post following the enshrinement ceremony. Shields says no one ever thought the Chiefs would be in St. Joseph for 14 years, but the way the community has embraced camp keeps them coming back.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724638068155.jpeg" alt="Charlie Shields and Dirck Clark/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Charlie Shields and Dirck Clark/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>One legendary St. Joseph basketball team has also found its way to its rightful place, among the greats in the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame. The 2007 Benton Girls basketball team made history, going an unprecedented 30-0 and winning a state championship, the first ever in Benton history. Current Benton Athletic Director and coach of that team Brett Goodwin says what made that group of girls so special was how determined they were on the court "There was no telling them that they can't do this, or they can't do that, they truly felt like every single time that they walked on the floor that they were better than everybody that they were going to play," Goodwin explains. "And they did that by showing up every day, working hard, making no excuses, and just playing to the best of their abilities." The '07 Cardinals team was also inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame last year, but Goodwin says this one feels a bit more special having everyone who supported them in attendance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724638285799.jpeg" alt="Coach Brett Goodwin (at podium) and members of the 2007 Benton Girls basketball team" />
 <figcaption>Coach Brett Goodwin (at podium) and members of the 2007 Benton Girls basketball team</figcaption>
 </figure>Along with a new group of area athletes and coaches being inducted into the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, two individuals were also honored with awards. One of those awards was the Bill Snyder Woman of Impact Award, presented to Bishop LeBlond Volleyball Coach and Principal Kimberly Huss. Huss says she was honored to represent the community in being presented with the award. "I think I go quietly about my day just doing things with kids every day and didn't expect anything big like this," Huss says. Huss says she feels it's important to understand the impact that you have. . . "It stands as a great reminder for me of the work that I do every day to know that that is such an important part of lots of lives," Huss says. Also honored was Savannah's Charlie Phillips with the Special Olympics Area Athlete of the Year Phillips earned four medals during the Special Olympic World Games in Berlin. 10 individuals and one team were enshrined into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724638106411.jpeg" alt="United States Figure Skater Ryan Bradley" />
 <figcaption>United States Figure Skater Ryan Bradley</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724638124719.jpeg" alt="Missouri Southern Softball coaching legend Pat Lipira" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Southern Softball coaching legend Pat Lipira</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724638138376.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Mustangs Owner and General Manager Ky Turner with Brett Esely. Turner spoke on behalf of the late Dan Gerson who was part of the 2024 Hall of Fame class." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Mustangs Owner and General Manager Ky Turner with Brett Esely. Turner spoke on behalf of the late Dan Gerson who was part of the 2024 Hall of Fame class.</figcaption>
 </figure>

New class of Hall of Famers enshrined into St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame

St. Joseph's Noah Cameron has had quite the journey since being drafted by the Royals in 2021.  

An alum of Central High School, Cameron jumped from High A Quad Cities to Double A Northwest Arkansas last year. 

Cameron finished last year 3-10 with a 6.10 ERA, striking out 74 batters in 17 starts.  After the season, Cameron made some adjustments, including adding a new pitch, the cutter. 

A new pitch and a better feel for better talent led to better results for Cameron who went 4- 4 for Northwest Arkansas in 16 starts.  Then, came the call from Triple A Omaha  

Cameron had a no decision in his first game with Omaha throwing 6.2 innings, striking out 10, giving up one run.  

The first win for Cameron, a left-handed pitcher, evaded him through his first three starts, before finally earning it this past Sunday.  

Cameron says it felt good to get that first win. 

"You know to have that record, just on record and you get six wins in a row and you're like wow that's awesome and you're 6-0 and it looks good and all that stuff for sure," Cameron tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during a phone interview while the Stormchasers are in a series in Buffalo,. "So, it's definitely nice."

In the win, Cameron pitched six innings and gave up just one hit while striking out seven and walking three.&nbsp; Before giving up a triple to the second batter he faced in the sixth inning, Cameron pitched 5.1 hitless innings.

Cameron says since arriving in Omaha, he's leaned on a number of veterans, who have various years of major league experience such as Alec Marsh, Daniel Lynch, and Dinelson Lamet. 

"They're at the same level as I am right now, so it's interesting to just see how it's like they were in the big leagues for years and years and their experience up there, and then it's like ok now they're kind of on the grind of they're not happy to be here cause they want to be up in the big leagues cause that's where they were," Cameron explains. "So, it's definitely really cool to just talk to them and see how everything works." 

Along with working alongside many veterans in Omaha, he also gets to work with legendary manager Mike Jirschele, who has won over 1,000 games in Omaha, and also has a World Series ring. 

Cameron says working with 'Jirsch', as he's more commonly known, has been amazing 

"You know the first thing he told me when I came in, he was like "Noah, we win here, you ready to do that?" and I was like absolutely let's do it," Cameron says. "So, it was cool to just see that's just the culture he wants to just have in the clubhouse, and obviously that's what we're doing this year, which is awesome, so yeah he's a good dude."

The Stormchasers clinched a playoff spot after a 9-4 win over the Louisville Bats on June 18th, also securing home field advantage in the International League Championship series, it's the teams first playoff trip in 10 years.

In four starts with Omaha, Cameron is 1-0 with a 1.07 ERA and 30 strikeouts. He currently ranks as the Royals #12 prospect

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724357942438.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron/ Photo courtesy of the Omaha Stormchasers" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron/ Photo courtesy of the Omaha Stormchasers</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph's Noah Cameron has had quite the journey since being drafted by the Royals in 2021. An alum of Central High School, Cameron jumped from High A Quad Cities to Double A Northwest Arkansas last year. Cameron finished last year 3-10 with a 6.10 ERA, striking out 74 batters in 17 starts. After the season, Cameron made some adjustments, including adding a new pitch, the cutter. A new pitch and a better feel for better talent led to better results for Cameron who went 4- 4 for Northwest Arkansas in 16 starts. Then, came the call from Triple A Omaha Cameron had a no decision in his first game with Omaha throwing 6.2 innings, striking out 10, giving up one run. The first win for Cameron, a left-handed pitcher, evaded him through his first three starts, before finally earning it this past Sunday. Cameron says it felt good to get that first win. "You know to have that record, just on record and you get six wins in a row and you're like wow that's awesome and you're 6-0 and it looks good and all that stuff for sure," Cameron tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during a phone interview while the Stormchasers are in a series in Buffalo,. "So, it's definitely nice."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Noah has been lights out 😤 <a href="https://t.co/TUvOYDlMoK">pic.twitter.com/TUvOYDlMoK</a>&mdash; Omaha Storm Chasers (@OMAStormChasers) <a href="https://twitter.com/OMAStormChasers/status/1825573942993605095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the win, Cameron pitched six innings and gave up just one hit while striking out seven and walking three.&nbsp; Before giving up a triple to the second batter he faced in the sixth inning, Cameron pitched 5.1 hitless innings.Cameron says since arriving in Omaha, he's leaned on a number of veterans, who have various years of major league experience such as Alec Marsh, Daniel Lynch, and Dinelson Lamet. "They're at the same level as I am right now, so it's interesting to just see how it's like they were in the big leagues for years and years and their experience up there, and then it's like ok now they're kind of on the grind of they're not happy to be here cause they want to be up in the big leagues cause that's where they were," Cameron explains. "So, it's definitely really cool to just talk to them and see how everything works." Along with working alongside many veterans in Omaha, he also gets to work with legendary manager Mike Jirschele, who has won over 1,000 games in Omaha, and also has a World Series ring. Cameron says working with 'Jirsch', as he's more commonly known, has been amazing "You know the first thing he told me when I came in, he was like "Noah, we win here, you ready to do that?" and I was like absolutely let's do it," Cameron says. "So, it was cool to just see that's just the culture he wants to just have in the clubhouse, and obviously that's what we're doing this year, which is awesome, so yeah he's a good dude."The Stormchasers clinched a playoff spot after a 9-4 win over the Louisville Bats on June 18th, also securing home field advantage in the International League Championship series, it's the teams first playoff trip in 10 years.In four starts with Omaha, Cameron is 1-0 with a 1.07 ERA and 30 strikeouts. He currently ranks as the Royals #12 prospect<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724358099235.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron leaves the mound after striking out seven over six innings /Courtesy of Omaha Stormchasers" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron leaves the mound after striking out seven over six innings /Courtesy of Omaha Stormchasers</figcaption>
 </figure>Journal<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Noah-Cameron-journeys-through-the-Royals-farm-system-e2ngihi" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Full Interview with Noah Cameron<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Full-Interview-Noah-Camerons-journey-through-the-Royals-farm-system-e2nge10" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Royals prospect, St. Joseph's own Noah Cameron thriving in Omaha

The Kansas City Royals didn't need much offense to secure a series victory over the Los Angeles Angels in Kansas City, earning a 3-0 shutout win one day after having a five game winning streak snapped.

The scoring started in the second inning for the Royals after singles from Hunter Renfroe and Adam Frazier, then a walk to Maikel Garcia to load the bases, center fielder Kyle Isbel would hit a line drive double to right field to bring home Renfroe and Frazier.

A home run from MJ Melendez in the sixth inning would be all Kansas City needed after that.

Starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen put together his best start since being acquired from the Texas Rangers at the trade deadline, pitching seven innings and striking out five, giving up just four hits and walking two.&nbsp; John Schreiber would get his 20th hold, before Lucas Erceg came on to close the door, striking out two for his sixth save of the season.

Frazier would lead the way hitting going 2 for 3 with one run scored.&nbsp; Renfroe would also add two hits with one run, but struck out twice.

The Royals are off on Thursday before continuing their six game homestand on Friday, opening a series with the NL East leading Philadelphia Phillies.&nbsp; Michael Wacha is slated to open the series, the Phillies starter yet to be determined.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:10, pregame at 6:30 on KFEQ.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals didn't need much offense to secure a series victory over the Los Angeles Angels in Kansas City, earning a 3-0 shutout win one day after having a five game winning streak snapped.The scoring started in the second inning for the Royals after singles from Hunter Renfroe and Adam Frazier, then a walk to Maikel Garcia to load the bases, center fielder Kyle Isbel would hit a line drive double to right field to bring home Renfroe and Frazier.A home run from MJ Melendez in the sixth inning would be all Kansas City needed after that.Starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen put together his best start since being acquired from the Texas Rangers at the trade deadline, pitching seven innings and striking out five, giving up just four hits and walking two.&nbsp; John Schreiber would get his 20th hold, before Lucas Erceg came on to close the door, striking out two for his sixth save of the season.Frazier would lead the way hitting going 2 for 3 with one run scored.&nbsp; Renfroe would also add two hits with one run, but struck out twice.The Royals are off on Thursday before continuing their six game homestand on Friday, opening a series with the NL East leading Philadelphia Phillies.&nbsp; Michael Wacha is slated to open the series, the Phillies starter yet to be determined.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:10, pregame at 6:30 on KFEQ.

Royals earn series win over Angels with 3-0 shutout victory

A strong start from Seth Lugo and a two run home run from Paul DeJong helped the Kansas&nbsp; City Royals to their fifth straight win, beating the Los Angeles Angels 5-3 to open a six game homestand

The Royals opened the scoring in the third inning on a single from Salvador Perez, scoring Michael Massey.&nbsp; DeJong's home run in the fourth inning pushed Kansas City's early lead to 3-0.

The Angels threatened in the seventh inning, a double from Jo Adell plating two runs, bringing home Brandon Drury and Mickey Moniak.&nbsp; But a double from Perez in the bottom half would extend the lead to three once again, driving in Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp;

A solo home run from Zach Neto would end the scoring in the eighth inning.&nbsp;

Seth Lugo put together his 18th quality start of the season in the win, pitching seven innings and giving up two runs on four hits, striking out eight and walking three.&nbsp; Kris Bubic got his third hold of the season, giving up just the solo shot to Neto, before John Schreiber in his return from the injured list would close the door for his second save of the season.

DeJong and Perez led all hitters, both going 2 for 4 on the night, with DeJong driving in two and Perez driving in three runs respectively.&nbsp;

Kansas City will seek their sixth win in a row on Tuesday night against the Angels.&nbsp; Cole Ragans will take on Tyler Anderson with first pitch at 7:10pm, pregame is at 6:30 on KFEQ.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA strong start from Seth Lugo and a two run home run from Paul DeJong helped the Kansas&nbsp; City Royals to their fifth straight win, beating the Los Angeles Angels 5-3 to open a six game homestandThe Royals opened the scoring in the third inning on a single from Salvador Perez, scoring Michael Massey.&nbsp; DeJong's home run in the fourth inning pushed Kansas City's early lead to 3-0.The Angels threatened in the seventh inning, a double from Jo Adell plating two runs, bringing home Brandon Drury and Mickey Moniak.&nbsp; But a double from Perez in the bottom half would extend the lead to three once again, driving in Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp;A solo home run from Zach Neto would end the scoring in the eighth inning.&nbsp;Seth Lugo put together his 18th quality start of the season in the win, pitching seven innings and giving up two runs on four hits, striking out eight and walking three.&nbsp; Kris Bubic got his third hold of the season, giving up just the solo shot to Neto, before John Schreiber in his return from the injured list would close the door for his second save of the season.DeJong and Perez led all hitters, both going 2 for 4 on the night, with DeJong driving in two and Perez driving in three runs respectively.&nbsp;Kansas City will seek their sixth win in a row on Tuesday night against the Angels.&nbsp; Cole Ragans will take on Tyler Anderson with first pitch at 7:10pm, pregame is at 6:30 on KFEQ.