ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — All-America running back Cody Schrader bulled through two defenders to open the fourth quarter with ninth-ranked Missouri's first score in the Cotton Bowl.

That 7-yard touchdown run was a fitting play for the former walk-on, and finish for these Tigers, who wrapped up an 11-win season with a 14-3 win over No. 7 Ohio State on Friday night.

“I couldn't have drawn it up any more perfect,” quarterback Brady Cook said. “He embodies what our team is, and what our values are and how we operate.”

In a game with almost as many total punts (16) as points, Missouri (11-2) suddenly had consecutive scoring drives of more than 90 yards after punting eight times before that. Cook threw a 7-yard TD to Luther Burden III with 5:12 left in the game.

Ohio State (11-2), which was undefeated before losing its regular-season finale to Michigan, played without two-time All-America receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. The standout junior was on the sideline, but opted out of playing. He hasn’t announced yet if he will enter the NFL draft.

The Buckeyes were already without starting quarterback Kyle McCord, who left the program earlier this month to transfer to Syracuse. Devin Brown, who took over as the starter, left the game in the middle of the second quarter with a high left ankle sprain. They finished with only 203 total yards.

After finishing 6-7 with bowl losses each of the past two years, Missouri wrapped up coach Eliah Drinkwitz’s fourth season by winning 11 games for the first time since 2014.

“I think tonight was a testament to a wilderness brotherhood. A bunch of guys that have fought through adversity their entire lives and careers,” Drinkwitz said. “We’re not bluebloods. We’re a dirty, hard-working brotherhood that loves each other, fight for each other.”

Missouri had only 120 total yards before the eight-play, 95-yard drive that ended with Schrader, the former NCAA Division II standout and walk-on who finished with 128 yards, running through two defenders for his 14th TD — and 10th consecutive game with a score. Cook had a 15-yard run before a 50-yard pass to a wide-open Marquis Johnson.

The Tigers then went 91 yards in 13 plays, including Cook converting fourth-and-1 with a 2-yard plunge, for Burden's score.

“That’s just grit,” Cook said. “That’s a testimony to all the work this team has put in and a focus on being a gritty team. Not let adversity get you down and just go back to work.”

Brown appeared to get hurt when he was sacked on a third-down play late in the first quarter. He returned when the Buckeyes got the ball back, but true freshman Lincoln Kienholz finished the game after that.

With McCord gone, Brown took over as the starter after not playing since Oct. 21, and was 4-of-6 passing for 20 yards while getting sacked three times. Kienholz was finished 6 of 17 for 86 yards and lost a fumble while being sacked with 3:13 left.

“For Devin, I know he wanted to play in this game worse than anybody. And even after he hurt himself, he wanted to get back in there and actually did it for a series,” Buckeyes coach Ryan Day said. “It wasn’t fair for him. He couldn’t move.”

Ohio State's only points came on Jayden Fielding's 44-yard field goal with 3:12 left in the first quarter, and the Buckeyes punted their other six possessions before halftime. Fielding's 48-yard attempt on the opening drive of the second half ricocheted high off the upright and back into the end zone.

The Buckeyes never reached the red zone on their 11 possessions (eight punts).

Schrader had 14 carries for 68 yards in the fourth quarter, after 60 yards on 15 carries before that. He finished with a Missouri single-season record 1,627 yards rushing, surpassing Tyler Badie's 1,604 yards in 2021. Schrader is the national leader with 125.2 yards per game.

Missouri expects to have Cook back for his third season as its starting quarterback, along with top receiving target Burden. The Tigers open the 2024 season Aug. 31 at home against Murray State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703917465204.jpeg" alt="Missouri running back Cody Schrader, right, runs against Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer (33) during the first half of the Cotton Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)" />
 <figcaption>Missouri running back Cody Schrader, right, runs against Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer (33) during the first half of the Cotton Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — All-America running back Cody Schrader bulled through two defenders to open the fourth quarter with ninth-ranked Missouri's first score in the Cotton Bowl.That 7-yard touchdown run was a fitting play for the former walk-on, and finish for these Tigers, who wrapped up an 11-win season with a 14-3 win over No. 7 Ohio State on Friday night.“I couldn't have drawn it up any more perfect,” quarterback Brady Cook said. “He embodies what our team is, and what our values are and how we operate.”In a game with almost as many total punts (16) as points, Missouri (11-2) suddenly had consecutive scoring drives of more than 90 yards after punting eight times before that. Cook threw a 7-yard TD to Luther Burden III with 5:12 left in the game.Ohio State (11-2), which was undefeated before losing its regular-season finale to Michigan, played without two-time All-America receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. The standout junior was on the sideline, but opted out of playing. He hasn’t announced yet if he will enter the NFL draft.The Buckeyes were already without starting quarterback Kyle McCord, who left the program earlier this month to transfer to Syracuse. Devin Brown, who took over as the starter, left the game in the middle of the second quarter with a high left ankle sprain. They finished with only 203 total yards.After finishing 6-7 with bowl losses each of the past two years, Missouri wrapped up coach Eliah Drinkwitz’s fourth season by winning 11 games for the first time since 2014.“I think tonight was a testament to a wilderness brotherhood. A bunch of guys that have fought through adversity their entire lives and careers,” Drinkwitz said. “We’re not bluebloods. We’re a dirty, hard-working brotherhood that loves each other, fight for each other.”Missouri had only 120 total yards before the eight-play, 95-yard drive that ended with Schrader, the former NCAA Division II standout and walk-on who finished with 128 yards, running through two defenders for his 14th TD — and 10th consecutive game with a score. Cook had a 15-yard run before a 50-yard pass to a wide-open Marquis Johnson.The Tigers then went 91 yards in 13 plays, including Cook converting fourth-and-1 with a 2-yard plunge, for Burden's score.“That’s just grit,” Cook said. “That’s a testimony to all the work this team has put in and a focus on being a gritty team. Not let adversity get you down and just go back to work.”Brown appeared to get hurt when he was sacked on a third-down play late in the first quarter. He returned when the Buckeyes got the ball back, but true freshman Lincoln Kienholz finished the game after that.With McCord gone, Brown took over as the starter after not playing since Oct. 21, and was 4-of-6 passing for 20 yards while getting sacked three times. Kienholz was finished 6 of 17 for 86 yards and lost a fumble while being sacked with 3:13 left.“For Devin, I know he wanted to play in this game worse than anybody. And even after he hurt himself, he wanted to get back in there and actually did it for a series,” Buckeyes coach Ryan Day said. “It wasn’t fair for him. He couldn’t move.”Ohio State's only points came on Jayden Fielding's 44-yard field goal with 3:12 left in the first quarter, and the Buckeyes punted their other six possessions before halftime. Fielding's 48-yard attempt on the opening drive of the second half ricocheted high off the upright and back into the end zone.The Buckeyes never reached the red zone on their 11 possessions (eight punts).MORE ON SCRADERSchrader had 14 carries for 68 yards in the fourth quarter, after 60 yards on 15 carries before that. He finished with a Missouri single-season record 1,627 yards rushing, surpassing Tyler Badie's 1,604 yards in 2021. Schrader is the national leader with 125.2 yards per game.UP NEXTMissouri expects to have Cook back for his third season as its starting quarterback, along with top receiving target Burden. The Tigers open the 2024 season Aug. 31 at home against Murray State.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703917325611.jpeg" alt="Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) runs next to Ohio State linebacker Steele Chambers during the first half of the Cotton Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)" />
 <figcaption>Missouri quarterback Brady Cook (12) runs next to Ohio State linebacker Steele Chambers during the first half of the Cotton Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Missouri uses fourth quarter rally to beat Ohio State in Cotton Bowl 14-3

Bishop LeBlond had gotten a great test from West Platte just 12 days ago in Weston, where the Golden Eagles escaped with a 36-35 win.

The BlueJays (4-5) came into the LeBlond Holiday tournament championship on a three-game winning streak, determined to deny the Golden Eagles a win in their home tournament.

West Platte, once again, played LeBlond tough, but the Golden Eagles were up to the challenge, turning the BlueJays over 19 times and knocking down key free throws in a 42-35 win in the LeBlond tournament title game on Friday night at Grace Gymnasium.

LeBlond (10-1) made 15-of-17 attempts at the free throw line, overcame an early 5-0 deficit and never looked back after reeling off a 10-0 run in the first quarter.

The Knights of Columbus trophy stays at Grace Gymansium for a third straight year.

"We made our free throws and executed when we needed to," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said. "That helped us keep that spread and keep that confidence going into the fourth quarter."

LeBlond got a little separation, going up 21-13 at halftime. West Platte (4-6) made their best push in the third quarter, scoring 16 points in that frame and knotting the game at 29 in the final minute of the third.

Momentum swung back the other way, though, as LeBlond senior Kyla Conard was fouled on a long three-point attempt as the buzzer sounded at the end of the third.

Conard made all three free throws to put the Eagles ahead 32-29 entering the fourth.

West Platte never tasted the lead, as LeBlond went 6-for-6 at the foul line in the fourth quarter. The Jays were also limited to six fourth quarter points.

Senior Kaleigh Ziesel, named the LeBlond tournament MVP, finished with a game-high 15 points to go with some critical rebounding on both ends.

"It feels amazing," Ziesel said. "All of our work is paying off. We practice all week long for this. It just feels good to finally have that threepeat in this tournament."

Conard finished with 13 points and all-tournament team honors. Sam Baker led West Platte with 12 points. Avery Holmes and Blair McHenry each had nine.

LeBlond now rides a five-game winning streak heading into 2024. With the bulk of the Midland Empire Conference schedule still in front of them, confidence is again high for the Golden Eagles, following their state runner-up campaign the previous year.

"I think our girls are so versatile, there's a different leading scorer every night," Steltenpohl pointed out. "So, it's hard for other teams to prepare, knowing who to guard, because you never know who is going to step up."

LeBlond boys bounce back strong, take 3rd place over Savannah

After falling to Plattsburg in heartbreaking fashion the night before, the Bishop LeBlond boys' basketball team came back strong the following day.

The Golden Eagles (9-4) held Savannah down defensively in a 45-33 victory in the third place game at the LeBlond Holiday tournament at Grace Gymnasium Friday.

It was a nice payback for LeBlond, who lost to Savannah 46-40 in the third place game last year.

"It felt really good, because (Savannah) beat us last year and we were really upset," LeBlond junior Cooper Waterman said. "We came into this one, wanting to win and got the job done. So, we feel good."

Waterman, who scored 13 against Plattsburg Thursday, was certainly feeling good again on Friday. He scored 11 points in the first half and ended with a game-high 16.

Leading only 10-9 at the end of the first, LeBlond took over, going on a 13-1 run in the second period to lead it 23-10 at halftime.

Savannah (5-7) got it back to within single digits a couple times, but never made any serious push for the lead in the second half. It didn't help that seniors Carsyn George and Zayden Snapp fouled out late.

George led the Savages with 11 points. Junior Jaiden Martinez had nine. Savannah also committed 20 turnovers in the loss and were called on 21 total fouls.

LeBlond got 12 points from Trey Icke and Chris Miljavic Friday as well. The Golden Eagles took some lumps to great teams like Maryville (7-0), Weaubleau (9-1) and Plattsburg (10-2) this month, but have won three of their last four going into the New Year.

"We've played a good mix of teams and have competed," said LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres. "Hopefully, we just continue that, because our schedule doesn't get any easier. We have really tough games ahead. Hopefully, we'll be prepared for it and just see where it goes."

"I'm proud of them, though. I think they played really well these last couple of days."

Other LeBlond tournament results Friday

Boys 1st place - Plattsburg 63 West Platte 55. Tigers win it for the second straight year. 5th place - Lawson 48 Pleasant Hill 33 7th place - North Andrew 64 Nodaway Valley 47

Girls 3rd place - Nodaway Valley 49 Savannah 39 5th place - Plattsburg 46 North Andrew 39

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703907079436.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball has secured three straight LeBlond Holiday tournament championships. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball has secured three straight LeBlond Holiday tournament championships. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond had gotten a great test from West Platte just 12 days ago in Weston, where the Golden Eagles escaped with a 36-35 win.The BlueJays (4-5) came into the LeBlond Holiday tournament championship on a three-game winning streak, determined to deny the Golden Eagles a win in their home tournament.West Platte, once again, played LeBlond tough, but the Golden Eagles were up to the challenge, turning the BlueJays over 19 times and knocking down key free throws in a 42-35 win in the LeBlond tournament title game on Friday night at Grace Gymnasium.LeBlond (10-1) made 15-of-17 attempts at the free throw line, overcame an early 5-0 deficit and never looked back after reeling off a 10-0 run in the first quarter.The Knights of Columbus trophy stays at Grace Gymansium for a third straight year."We made our free throws and executed when we needed to," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said. "That helped us keep that spread and keep that confidence going into the fourth quarter."LeBlond got a little separation, going up 21-13 at halftime. West Platte (4-6) made their best push in the third quarter, scoring 16 points in that frame and knotting the game at 29 in the final minute of the third.Momentum swung back the other way, though, as LeBlond senior Kyla Conard was fouled on a long three-point attempt as the buzzer sounded at the end of the third.Conard made all three free throws to put the Eagles ahead 32-29 entering the fourth.West Platte never tasted the lead, as LeBlond went 6-for-6 at the foul line in the fourth quarter. The Jays were also limited to six fourth quarter points.Senior Kaleigh Ziesel, named the LeBlond tournament MVP, finished with a game-high 15 points to go with some critical rebounding on both ends."It feels amazing," Ziesel said. "All of our work is paying off. We practice all week long for this. It just feels good to finally have that threepeat in this tournament."Conard finished with 13 points and all-tournament team honors. Sam Baker led West Platte with 12 points. Avery Holmes and Blair McHenry each had nine.LeBlond now rides a five-game winning streak heading into 2024. With the bulk of the Midland Empire Conference schedule still in front of them, confidence is again high for the Golden Eagles, following their state runner-up campaign the previous year."I think our girls are so versatile, there's a different leading scorer every night," Steltenpohl pointed out. "So, it's hard for other teams to prepare, knowing who to guard, because you never know who is going to step up."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908757499.jpeg" alt="Ella Frazee (14)." />
 <figcaption>Ella Frazee (14).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908780023.jpeg" alt="Kaleigh Ziesel (15)." />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Ziesel (15).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908802209.jpeg" alt="Kayla Beam (13)." />
 <figcaption>Kayla Beam (13).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908823048.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart (3) was named to the all-tournament team." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart (3) was named to the all-tournament team.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908841549.jpeg" alt="Rilyn Conard (23)." />
 <figcaption>Rilyn Conard (23).</figcaption>
 </figure>LeBlond boys bounce back strong, take 3rd place over SavannahAfter falling to Plattsburg in heartbreaking fashion the night before, the Bishop LeBlond boys' basketball team came back strong the following day.The Golden Eagles (9-4) held Savannah down defensively in a 45-33 victory in the third place game at the LeBlond Holiday tournament at Grace Gymnasium Friday.It was a nice payback for LeBlond, who lost to Savannah 46-40 in the third place game last year."It felt really good, because (Savannah) beat us last year and we were really upset," LeBlond junior Cooper Waterman said. "We came into this one, wanting to win and got the job done. So, we feel good."Waterman, who scored 13 against Plattsburg Thursday, was certainly feeling good again on Friday. He scored 11 points in the first half and ended with a game-high 16.Leading only 10-9 at the end of the first, LeBlond took over, going on a 13-1 run in the second period to lead it 23-10 at halftime.Savannah (5-7) got it back to within single digits a couple times, but never made any serious push for the lead in the second half. It didn't help that seniors Carsyn George and Zayden Snapp fouled out late.George led the Savages with 11 points. Junior Jaiden Martinez had nine. Savannah also committed 20 turnovers in the loss and were called on 21 total fouls.LeBlond got 12 points from Trey Icke and Chris Miljavic Friday as well. The Golden Eagles took some lumps to great teams like Maryville (7-0), Weaubleau (9-1) and Plattsburg (10-2) this month, but have won three of their last four going into the New Year."We've played a good mix of teams and have competed," said LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres. "Hopefully, we just continue that, because our schedule doesn't get any easier. We have really tough games ahead. Hopefully, we'll be prepared for it and just see where it goes.""I'm proud of them, though. I think they played really well these last couple of days."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703907125078.jpeg" alt="The LeBlond boys accept the third place trophy after a win over Savannah on Friday at the LeBlond Holiday tournament. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The LeBlond boys accept the third place trophy after a win over Savannah on Friday at the LeBlond Holiday tournament. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908902510.jpeg" alt="Aiden Knechtenhofer (22)." />
 <figcaption>Aiden Knechtenhofer (22).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908954571.jpeg" alt="Cooper Waterman (12)." />
 <figcaption>Cooper Waterman (12).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703908974340.jpeg" alt="Wyatt Jackson (4)." />
 <figcaption>Wyatt Jackson (4).</figcaption>
 </figure>Other LeBlond tournament results FridayBoys 1st place - Plattsburg 63 West Platte 55. Tigers win it for the second straight year. 5th place - Lawson 48 Pleasant Hill 33 7th place - North Andrew 64 Nodaway Valley 47Girls 3rd place - Nodaway Valley 49 Savannah 39 5th place - Plattsburg 46 North Andrew 39You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond wins LB tournament for third straight year, Golden Eagle boys take 3rd

West Platte boys build big lead, fend off Savannah late in semifinals

West Platte raced out to a 13-point lead in the first quarter against Savannah and led by 12 at halftime.

The Savages made a valiant push, tying the game twice in the fourth quarter, but it was the BlueJays (6-4) holding off Savannah 47-46 in a Bishop LeBlond tournament semifinal at Grace Gymnasium Thursday.

Drake Montez and Miles McHenry did the heavy lifting for West Platte, as Montez scored a game-high 19 points and McHenry was right behind with 17.

Carsyn George led Savannah with 15 points. Aiden Knechtenhofer had 11. Zayden Snapp spent some time on the bench with three early fouls, but still finished with seven points.

Savannah committed 21 turnovers in the loss. The Savages (4-6) will play for 3rd place on Friday at 5:30 p.m.

LeBlond girls lock Savannah down, advance to tournament title again

It was rather an anticlimactic start between Savannah and Bishop LeBlond in a girls' basketball Thursday. The Golden Eagles slogged their way to a 15-9 halftime lead.

LeBlond (9-1) has hung their hat on defense throughout the season and did so again, holding down Savannah in a 37-22 victory Thursday.

The victory puts the Golden Eagles back into the LeBlond tournament girls' championship game for a fourth straight season.

Kyla Conard led the Eagles with 11 points. Kaleigh Ziesel and Rilyn Conard both had eight.

Rhyan Shrick led Savannah (5-4) with eight points. The Savages made only eight total field goals and committed 17 turnovers.

Savannah is the seventh opponent that LeBlond has held to less than 35 points so far this season.

LeBlond will face West Platte (4-5) for the tournament title on Friday night at 7 p.m. The BlueJays breezed past North Andrew Thursday, 49-18.

Savannah will face Nodaway Valley for 3rd at 4 p.m.

Plattsburg boys survive thriller against LB to reach title game

Plattsburg watched a nine-point lead disappear after LeBlond's Cooper Waterman stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points in the third quarter alone, giving the Golden Eagles a 37-34 lead over the Class 2 No. 4 Tigers entering the fourth.

But behind 26 points from Isaia Howard, Plattsburg (9-2) weathered the storm and fended off the Eagles in a 47-44 thriller on Thursday night.

The game featured four ties and four lead changes, but the Tigers' defense came up big late, as they limited LeBlond to just seven fourth quarter points.

Jaiveon Grayson added nine points for Plattsburg. Waterman led LeBlond (8-4) with 13 total points. Trey Icke and Gannon Sowell both had eight.

Both teams had their struggles at the free throw line Thursday. LeBlond missed seven free throws, while Plattsburg missed 10 in all.

Both teams were in the double bonus in the closing seconds. Several missed free throws by Plattsburg late gave LeBlond one last prayer at tying the game and sending it to overtime.

Sowell took a high three-point shot at the buzzer that hit the glass and the rim, but it rattled out, preserving victory for the Tigers.

Plattsburg, last year's LeBlond tournament champion, will face West Platte for the championship on Friday night at 8 p.m.

LeBlond will face Savannah for third at 5:30 p.m.

Girls Nodaway Valley 58 Plattsburg 45

Boys Pleasant Hill 57 Nodaway Valley 43 Lawson 48 North Andrew 37

Girls Plattsburg vs. North Andrew (consolation) - 1 p.m. Nodaway Valley vs. Savannah (3rd place) - 4 p.m.

Boys Nodaway Valley vs. North Andrew (7th place) - 11:30 a.m. Lawson vs. Pleasant Hill (5th place) - 2:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703824751841.jpeg" alt="Kyla Conard (20) drives against Savannah. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Kyla Conard (20) drives against Savannah. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWest Platte boys build big lead, fend off Savannah late in semifinalsWest Platte raced out to a 13-point lead in the first quarter against Savannah and led by 12 at halftime.The Savages made a valiant push, tying the game twice in the fourth quarter, but it was the BlueJays (6-4) holding off Savannah 47-46 in a Bishop LeBlond tournament semifinal at Grace Gymnasium Thursday.Drake Montez and Miles McHenry did the heavy lifting for West Platte, as Montez scored a game-high 19 points and McHenry was right behind with 17.Carsyn George led Savannah with 15 points. Aiden Knechtenhofer had 11. Zayden Snapp spent some time on the bench with three early fouls, but still finished with seven points.Savannah committed 21 turnovers in the loss. The Savages (4-6) will play for 3rd place on Friday at 5:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703825955188.jpeg" alt="Cody Nigh (34)." />
 <figcaption>Cody Nigh (34).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703825980302.jpeg" alt="Jaiden Martinez (1)." />
 <figcaption>Jaiden Martinez (1).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826008206.jpeg" alt="Zayden Snapp (15)." />
 <figcaption>Zayden Snapp (15).</figcaption>
 </figure>LeBlond girls lock Savannah down, advance to tournament title againIt was rather an anticlimactic start between Savannah and Bishop LeBlond in a girls' basketball Thursday. The Golden Eagles slogged their way to a 15-9 halftime lead.LeBlond (9-1) has hung their hat on defense throughout the season and did so again, holding down Savannah in a 37-22 victory Thursday.The victory puts the Golden Eagles back into the LeBlond tournament girls' championship game for a fourth straight season.Kyla Conard led the Eagles with 11 points. Kaleigh Ziesel and Rilyn Conard both had eight.Rhyan Shrick led Savannah (5-4) with eight points. The Savages made only eight total field goals and committed 17 turnovers.Savannah is the seventh opponent that LeBlond has held to less than 35 points so far this season.LeBlond will face West Platte (4-5) for the tournament title on Friday night at 7 p.m. The BlueJays breezed past North Andrew Thursday, 49-18.Savannah will face Nodaway Valley for 3rd at 4 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826032757.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart (3)." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart (3).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826058219.jpeg" alt="Mylee Schrick (23)." />
 <figcaption>Mylee Schrick (23).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826085029.jpeg" alt="Rilyn Conard goes up for a shot." />
 <figcaption>Rilyn Conard goes up for a shot.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826108723.jpeg" alt="Taylor Hilsabeck (15)." />
 <figcaption>Taylor Hilsabeck (15).</figcaption>
 </figure>Plattsburg boys survive thriller against LB to reach title gamePlattsburg watched a nine-point lead disappear after LeBlond's Cooper Waterman stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points in the third quarter alone, giving the Golden Eagles a 37-34 lead over the Class 2 No. 4 Tigers entering the fourth.But behind 26 points from Isaia Howard, Plattsburg (9-2) weathered the storm and fended off the Eagles in a 47-44 thriller on Thursday night.The game featured four ties and four lead changes, but the Tigers' defense came up big late, as they limited LeBlond to just seven fourth quarter points.Jaiveon Grayson added nine points for Plattsburg. Waterman led LeBlond (8-4) with 13 total points. Trey Icke and Gannon Sowell both had eight.Both teams had their struggles at the free throw line Thursday. LeBlond missed seven free throws, while Plattsburg missed 10 in all.Both teams were in the double bonus in the closing seconds. Several missed free throws by Plattsburg late gave LeBlond one last prayer at tying the game and sending it to overtime.Sowell took a high three-point shot at the buzzer that hit the glass and the rim, but it rattled out, preserving victory for the Tigers.Plattsburg, last year's LeBlond tournament champion, will face West Platte for the championship on Friday night at 8 p.m.LeBlond will face Savannah for third at 5:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826150345.jpeg" alt="Trey Icke (right) goes against Donte Bingham." />
 <figcaption>Trey Icke (right) goes against Donte Bingham.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703826175810.jpeg" alt="Isaia Howard (23)." />
 <figcaption>Isaia Howard (23).</figcaption>
 </figure>Other results from ThursdayGirls Nodaway Valley 58 Plattsburg 45Boys Pleasant Hill 57 Nodaway Valley 43 Lawson 48 North Andrew 37Friday schedule Girls Plattsburg vs. North Andrew (consolation) - 1 p.m. Nodaway Valley vs. Savannah (3rd place) - 4 p.m.Boys Nodaway Valley vs. North Andrew (7th place) - 11:30 a.m. Lawson vs. Pleasant Hill (5th place) - 2:30 p.m.

LeBlond tournament championships set, LB girls advance with win over Savannah

&nbsp;ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw for two touchdowns and ran for one, DJ Giddens rushed for 151 yards and scored twice, and Kansas State beat No. 19 North Carolina State 28-19 in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Thursday night.

Johnson, a freshman making his first start after Will Howard entered the transfer portal, threw for 178 yards, rushed for 71 and directed a 15-play, 72-yard touchdown drive in the fourth quarter that put the game away and closed out a solid season for coach Chris Klieman's Wildcats (9-4).

Quarterback Brennan Armstrong rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown and threw for 164 yards in his final game for the Wolfpack (9-4), who fell short of winning 10 games for the second time in program history.

Giddens had a 37-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter, his only catch of the game, and ran for a 4-yard touchdown early in the second that made it 14-0.

Kansas State led 21-7 late in the second quarter and 21-10 at halftime, but N.C. State rallied in the third quarter, thanks in part to some trickery. Trent Pennix ran for a 60-yard touchdown on a fake punt with 1:50 left in the period. But the 2-point try failed, allowing the Wildcats to maintain a 21-19 lead.

Johnson and Giddens took over from there. Giddens had six rushes for 25 yards on a drive that took 7:24 off the clock and concluded with Johnson's 8-yard touchdown pass to Jayce Brown with 2:48 remaining.

Jacob Parrish intercepted Armstrong on N.C. State's next play from scrimmage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703818069685.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson (2) looks for a receiver as he scrambles from the pocket during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game against North Carolina State, Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson (2) looks for a receiver as he scrambles from the pocket during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game against North Carolina State, Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw for two touchdowns and ran for one, DJ Giddens rushed for 151 yards and scored twice, and Kansas State beat No. 19 North Carolina State 28-19 in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Thursday night.Johnson, a freshman making his first start after Will Howard entered the transfer portal, threw for 178 yards, rushed for 71 and directed a 15-play, 72-yard touchdown drive in the fourth quarter that put the game away and closed out a solid season for coach Chris Klieman's Wildcats (9-4).Quarterback Brennan Armstrong rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown and threw for 164 yards in his final game for the Wolfpack (9-4), who fell short of winning 10 games for the second time in program history.Giddens had a 37-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter, his only catch of the game, and ran for a 4-yard touchdown early in the second that made it 14-0.Kansas State led 21-7 late in the second quarter and 21-10 at halftime, but N.C. State rallied in the third quarter, thanks in part to some trickery. Trent Pennix ran for a 60-yard touchdown on a fake punt with 1:50 left in the period. But the 2-point try failed, allowing the Wildcats to maintain a 21-19 lead.Johnson and Giddens took over from there. Giddens had six rushes for 25 yards on a drive that took 7:24 off the clock and concluded with Johnson's 8-yard touchdown pass to Jayce Brown with 2:48 remaining.Jacob Parrish intercepted Armstrong on N.C. State's next play from scrimmage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703818024803.jpeg" alt="Kansas State running back DJ Giddens (31) runs for a touchdown on a fourth-and-1 pass play against North Carolina State during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State running back DJ Giddens (31) runs for a touchdown on a fourth-and-1 pass play against North Carolina State during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)</figcaption>
 </figure>

K-State wins Pop-Tarts Bowl behind impressive first start from quarterback Avery Johnson

Bishop LeBlond turned a one-point lead at the end of the first quarter into a 10-point advantage at halftime.

By the end, the Golden Eagles (8-1) pulled away for a 48-23 win over Plattsburg in the 76th annual Bishop LeBlond Holiday tournament at Grace Gymnasium Wednesday.

Plattsburg (5-5) was held to just six total points in the second and third quarters combined. The Golden Eagles also forced 18 turnovers.

"We put the ball in the hole," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said. "We executed well on offense and shared. Kept hitting our shots and came out firing in the third quarter."

"As long as we continue to focus on moving our feet and boxing out and not allowing second opportunities at the basket, we're going to win some more games."

Kyla Conard and Kayla Beam led LeBlond with nine points each. Rilyn Conard finished with eight.&nbsp; Kaleigh Ziesel and Kendall Cathcart tallied six. Ten Golden Eagles scored the ball.

Letecia Howard led Plattsburg with nine points.

The Golden Eagles now face Savannah (5-3) in pool play on Thursday night at 7.

"I know (Savannah) will come out and be aggressive in man (defense) with us," Steltenpohl said. "We have to be ready to take care of the ball and again play lockdown defense, because they have good scorers."

LeBlond boys dominate on defense early, hold on for win over Lawson

The Bishop LeBlond boys were a little sleepy to start, leading only 7-2 by the end of the first quarter.

The Golden Eagles, though, held Lawson without a made field goal in the entire first half and cruised to a 35-14 lead by the end of the third.

LeBlond, however, was a little sleepy to finish as they coasted to a 38-27 win over the Cardinals Wednesday.

"We're always having that little lull or spell where we're not playing well and can't figure out how to get out of it," LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres said. "No different tonight. We played pretty well for the better part of 2.5 quarters, and then kind of just stood around and didn't continue to guard the right way."

Lawson (4-5) scored only three points in the first half - all from the free throw line. LeBlond, meanwhile, sunk six total three pointers and scored 28 of their 38 points in the second and third quarter combined.

Chris Miljavic led the Eagles with 12 points. Trey Icke had seven. Chase Jones led Lawson with 13.

LeBlond advances to the tournament semifinals, where they'll face Plattsburg (8-2) on Thursday at 7 p.m.

It was the Tigers who ended LeBlond's season in sectionals this past February. Plattsburg plowed through North Andrew Wednesday, 69-35. North Dakota State commit Isaia Howard had 34 points.

"Hope we can put the ball in the hole a little bit more than we have lately," Girres said. "It's going to be a challenge, that's for sure. They've been rolling for the last year-and-a-half. When they have their best player on the floor, it's going to be tough."

Other LeBlond tournament scores Wednesday

Girls West Platte 56 Nodaway Valley 48 Savannah 47 North Andrew 18

Boys Savannah 55 Pleasant Hill 40 West Platte 39 Nodaway Valley 36

Girls West Platte vs. North Andrew - 1 p.m. Nodaway Valley vs. Plattsburg - 4 p.m. LeBlond vs. Savannah - 7 p.m.

Boys' Nodaway Valley vs. Pleasant Hill (consolation) - 11:30 a.m. North Andrew vs. Lawson (consolation) - 2:30 p.m. Savannah vs. West Platte - 5:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703737500365.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart (3) goes up for a shot against Plattsburg in Wednesday's game at the LeBlond Holiday tournament. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart (3) goes up for a shot against Plattsburg in Wednesday's game at the LeBlond Holiday tournament. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond turned a one-point lead at the end of the first quarter into a 10-point advantage at halftime.By the end, the Golden Eagles (8-1) pulled away for a 48-23 win over Plattsburg in the 76th annual Bishop LeBlond Holiday tournament at Grace Gymnasium Wednesday.Plattsburg (5-5) was held to just six total points in the second and third quarters combined. The Golden Eagles also forced 18 turnovers."We put the ball in the hole," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said. "We executed well on offense and shared. Kept hitting our shots and came out firing in the third quarter.""As long as we continue to focus on moving our feet and boxing out and not allowing second opportunities at the basket, we're going to win some more games."Kyla Conard and Kayla Beam led LeBlond with nine points each. Rilyn Conard finished with eight.&nbsp; Kaleigh Ziesel and Kendall Cathcart tallied six. Ten Golden Eagles scored the ball.Letecia Howard led Plattsburg with nine points.The Golden Eagles now face Savannah (5-3) in pool play on Thursday night at 7."I know (Savannah) will come out and be aggressive in man (defense) with us," Steltenpohl said. "We have to be ready to take care of the ball and again play lockdown defense, because they have good scorers."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703737428980.jpeg" alt="Brensley Fox (10) and Ella Frazee (14)." />
 <figcaption>Brensley Fox (10) and Ella Frazee (14).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703737893629.jpeg" alt="Kaleigh Ziesel (15)." />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Ziesel (15).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703737918627.jpeg" alt="Kayla Beam (13)." />
 <figcaption>Kayla Beam (13).</figcaption>
 </figure>LeBlond boys dominate on defense early, hold on for win over LawsonThe Bishop LeBlond boys were a little sleepy to start, leading only 7-2 by the end of the first quarter.The Golden Eagles, though, held Lawson without a made field goal in the entire first half and cruised to a 35-14 lead by the end of the third.LeBlond, however, was a little sleepy to finish as they coasted to a 38-27 win over the Cardinals Wednesday."We're always having that little lull or spell where we're not playing well and can't figure out how to get out of it," LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres said. "No different tonight. We played pretty well for the better part of 2.5 quarters, and then kind of just stood around and didn't continue to guard the right way."Lawson (4-5) scored only three points in the first half - all from the free throw line. LeBlond, meanwhile, sunk six total three pointers and scored 28 of their 38 points in the second and third quarter combined.Chris Miljavic led the Eagles with 12 points. Trey Icke had seven. Chase Jones led Lawson with 13.LeBlond advances to the tournament semifinals, where they'll face Plattsburg (8-2) on Thursday at 7 p.m.It was the Tigers who ended LeBlond's season in sectionals this past February. Plattsburg plowed through North Andrew Wednesday, 69-35. North Dakota State commit Isaia Howard had 34 points."Hope we can put the ball in the hole a little bit more than we have lately," Girres said. "It's going to be a challenge, that's for sure. They've been rolling for the last year-and-a-half. When they have their best player on the floor, it's going to be tough."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703738335903.jpeg" alt="Chris Miljavic (22)." />
 <figcaption>Chris Miljavic (22).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703738355395.jpeg" alt="Gannon Sowell (5)." />
 <figcaption>Gannon Sowell (5).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703738388628.jpeg" alt="Cooper Waterman (12)." />
 <figcaption>Cooper Waterman (12).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703738408940.jpeg" alt="Trey Icke (4)." />
 <figcaption>Trey Icke (4).</figcaption>
 </figure>Other LeBlond tournament scores WednesdayGirls West Platte 56 Nodaway Valley 48 Savannah 47 North Andrew 18Boys Savannah 55 Pleasant Hill 40 West Platte 39 Nodaway Valley 36Thursday scheduleGirls West Platte vs. North Andrew - 1 p.m. Nodaway Valley vs. Plattsburg - 4 p.m. LeBlond vs. Savannah - 7 p.m.Boys' Nodaway Valley vs. Pleasant Hill (consolation) - 11:30 a.m. North Andrew vs. Lawson (consolation) - 2:30 p.m. Savannah vs. West Platte - 5:30 p.m.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond girls, boys pick up wins in opening round of LB tournament Wednesday

PHOENIX (AP) — Jason Bean threw for 449 yards and all six of his touchdown passes to two receivers, and penalty-plagued Kansas outlasted UNLV 49-36 in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl on Tuesday night.

The Jayhawks (9-4), ranked 14th nationally for fewest penalties with 55 during the regular season, were flagged 18 times for 210 yards, including four personal fouls.

They made up for it with an explosive offense that produced 591 total yards at Chase Field, home of baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks.

Luke Grimm had four catches for 16 yards and three touchdowns. Lawrence Arnold added six catches for 132 yards and three more scores, giving Kansas two receivers with three touchdowns in a game for the first time in program history.

Bean finished 19 of 28 and overcame two interceptions in the third quarter to lead Kansas to its first postseason win since the 2008 Insight Bowl, also in Phoenix.

Jayden Maiava threw two touchdown passes in the third quarter to rally UNLV (9-5) nearly all the way back from a 21-point deficit early in the second, but the Rebels couldn't stop Kansas.

Maiava added a 50-yard touchdown pass to Senika McKie and finished 24 of 35 for 291 yards with two interceptions.

UNLV got off to a fast start in its first bowl game since 2014, moving quickly down the field for Maiava’s 3-yard touchdown pass to Vincent Davis.

Bean took over from there, hitting Grimm on touchdowns of 6 and 60 yards, and a 15-yarder to Arnold. Devin Neal's 1-yard run put Kansas up 28-10 at halftime.

Maiava rallied UNLV to 28-24 with a pair of TD passes, but Kansas kept scoring.

Bean hit Arnold on touchdown passes of 40 and 56 yards, then put the Jayhawks up 49-30 with a 43-yard TD to Grimm.

Kansas: The Jayhawks picked a bad time to become undisciplined, but got away with it because of their explosive offense.

Kansas: Neal announced before the game that he will return for another season, and the Jayhawks' defensive front is loaded with underclassmen on the two-deep roster. Kansas had the No. 44 recruiting class in the early signing period.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703657208069.jpeg" alt="Kansas wide receiver Luke Grimm scores a touchdown against UNLV during the first half of the Guaranteed Rate Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas wide receiver Luke Grimm scores a touchdown against UNLV during the first half of the Guaranteed Rate Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)</figcaption>
 </figure>PHOENIX (AP) — Jason Bean threw for 449 yards and all six of his touchdown passes to two receivers, and penalty-plagued Kansas outlasted UNLV 49-36 in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl on Tuesday night.The Jayhawks (9-4), ranked 14th nationally for fewest penalties with 55 during the regular season, were flagged 18 times for 210 yards, including four personal fouls.They made up for it with an explosive offense that produced 591 total yards at Chase Field, home of baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks.Luke Grimm had four catches for 16 yards and three touchdowns. Lawrence Arnold added six catches for 132 yards and three more scores, giving Kansas two receivers with three touchdowns in a game for the first time in program history.Bean finished 19 of 28 and overcame two interceptions in the third quarter to lead Kansas to its first postseason win since the 2008 Insight Bowl, also in Phoenix.Jayden Maiava threw two touchdown passes in the third quarter to rally UNLV (9-5) nearly all the way back from a 21-point deficit early in the second, but the Rebels couldn't stop Kansas.Maiava added a 50-yard touchdown pass to Senika McKie and finished 24 of 35 for 291 yards with two interceptions.UNLV got off to a fast start in its first bowl game since 2014, moving quickly down the field for Maiava’s 3-yard touchdown pass to Vincent Davis.Bean took over from there, hitting Grimm on touchdowns of 6 and 60 yards, and a 15-yarder to Arnold. Devin Neal's 1-yard run put Kansas up 28-10 at halftime.Maiava rallied UNLV to 28-24 with a pair of TD passes, but Kansas kept scoring.Bean hit Arnold on touchdown passes of 40 and 56 yards, then put the Jayhawks up 49-30 with a 43-yard TD to Grimm.THE TAKEAWAYKansas: The Jayhawks picked a bad time to become undisciplined, but got away with it because of their explosive offense.UP NEXTKansas: Neal announced before the game that he will return for another season, and the Jayhawks' defensive front is loaded with underclassmen on the two-deep roster. Kansas had the No. 44 recruiting class in the early signing period.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703657265904.jpeg" alt="UNLV wide receiver Jacob De Jesus is tackled by Kansas safety O.J. Burroughs (5) and linebacker Taiwan Berryhill Jr. during the first half of the Guaranteed Rate Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)" />
 <figcaption>UNLV wide receiver Jacob De Jesus is tackled by Kansas safety O.J. Burroughs (5) and linebacker Taiwan Berryhill Jr. during the first half of the Guaranteed Rate Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Kansas overcomes flags to beat UNLV 49-36 in Guaranteed Rate Bowl, first bowl win since '08

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Las Vegas got a pair of defensive touchdowns for the second straight week, including a pick-6 of the struggling Patrick Mahomes, and the resurgent Raiders held off the sloppy Kansas City Chiefs 20-14 on Christmas Day to keep their slim postseason hopes alive.

Defensive tackle Bilal Nichols returned a fumble eight yards for a touchdown, and Jack Jones took an interception 33 yards for another score seven seconds later, helping the Raiders (7-8) snap a six-game losing streak to the Chiefs.

Kansas City (9-6) squandered an opportunity to clinch the AFC West for the eighth consecutive year with one of their worst performances of the Mahomes era.

Along with two defensive TDs, Harrison Butker missed a chip-shot field goal, penalties and dropped passes were again a problem and twice they failed to convert on fourth down in the second half.

The Chiefs had a chance after Mahomes hit Justin Watson for a touchdown with 2:42 to go. But on the ensuing possession, the Raiders' Zamir White got loose for a 43-yard gain, picking up a first down that allowed them to run out the clock.

Mahomes finished 27-of-44 for 235 yards and an interception. He nearly threw a second, but it was overturned upon review.

The Raiders, playing without injured running back Josh Jacobs, won despite a dismal day from their own offense.

Aidan O'Connell was 9-of 21-for 62 yards, never completing a pass after the first quarter, while White had 145 yards on the ground.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid had spent the past few weeks lamenting the sloppy play that kept costing the Super Bowl champs.

They couldn't have been much sloppier on Christmas Day.

They went three-and-out on consecutive series to start a game for only the second time with Mahomes at quarterback. They were held to minus-18 yards in the first quarter, the second-worst total for the club since at least 1991.

And the reigning league MVP was sacked twice in those two series, while two more offensive penalties only made matters worse.

The Chiefs finally pulled ahead when Isiah Pacheco took a direct snap 12 yards for a touchdown, and Las Vegas had given the ball right back after a punt. Pacheco again took a direct snap but this time tried to hand off to Mahomes, who lost the exchange, and the 315-pound Raiders defensive tackle&nbsp;Nichols was there to scoop it up&nbsp;and run for the touchdown.

On the next offensive play for Kansas City,&nbsp;Mahomes was picked off by Jones,&nbsp;who returned it 33 yards for his second pick-6 in consecutive weeks.

The Raiders' fourth defensive TD in the two weeks, and their second in a span of seven seconds, gave them a 17-7 lead over their longtime divisional nemesis.

Then, Jones appeared to play&nbsp;the Grinch&nbsp;when he faked giving the ball to a kid wearing Chiefs clothes in the crowd.

It was still 17-7 when the Chiefs' Butker, one of the NFL's most accurate kickers, missed a chip-shot field goal before halftime, and the Raiders tacked on a field goal late in the third quarter to take a 20-7 lead heading to the fourth.

Chiefs CB L'Jarius Sneed left after making a tackle late in the third quarter. Pacheco went into the concussion protocol in the third quarter when his helmet popped off and he was kicked in the head. RG Trey Smith hurt his leg in the fourth quarter.

The Chiefs host AFC playoff contender Cincinnati (8-7) this coming Sunday at 3:25 p.m. The game will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703540307945.jpeg" alt="Las Vegas Raiders running back Zamir White (35) runs with the ball as Kansas City Chiefs safety Mike Edwards defends and Raiders guard Greg Van Roten looks on during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 25, 2023, in Kansas City. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)." />
 <figcaption>Las Vegas Raiders running back Zamir White (35) runs with the ball as Kansas City Chiefs safety Mike Edwards defends and Raiders guard Greg Van Roten looks on during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 25, 2023, in Kansas City. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga).</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Las Vegas got a pair of defensive touchdowns for the second straight week, including a pick-6 of the struggling Patrick Mahomes, and the resurgent Raiders held off the sloppy Kansas City Chiefs 20-14 on Christmas Day to keep their slim postseason hopes alive.Defensive tackle Bilal Nichols returned a fumble eight yards for a touchdown, and Jack Jones took an interception 33 yards for another score seven seconds later, helping the Raiders (7-8) snap a six-game losing streak to the Chiefs.Kansas City (9-6) squandered an opportunity to clinch the AFC West for the eighth consecutive year with one of their worst performances of the Mahomes era.Along with two defensive TDs, Harrison Butker missed a chip-shot field goal, penalties and dropped passes were again a problem and twice they failed to convert on fourth down in the second half.The Chiefs had a chance after Mahomes hit Justin Watson for a touchdown with 2:42 to go. But on the ensuing possession, the Raiders' Zamir White got loose for a 43-yard gain, picking up a first down that allowed them to run out the clock.Mahomes finished 27-of-44 for 235 yards and an interception. He nearly threw a second, but it was overturned upon review.The Raiders, playing without injured running back Josh Jacobs, won despite a dismal day from their own offense.Aidan O'Connell was 9-of 21-for 62 yards, never completing a pass after the first quarter, while White had 145 yards on the ground.Chiefs coach Andy Reid had spent the past few weeks lamenting the sloppy play that kept costing the Super Bowl champs.They couldn't have been much sloppier on Christmas Day.They went three-and-out on consecutive series to start a game for only the second time with Mahomes at quarterback. They were held to minus-18 yards in the first quarter, the second-worst total for the club since at least 1991.And the reigning league MVP was sacked twice in those two series, while two more offensive penalties only made matters worse.The Chiefs finally pulled ahead when Isiah Pacheco took a direct snap 12 yards for a touchdown, and Las Vegas had given the ball right back after a punt. Pacheco again took a direct snap but this time tried to hand off to Mahomes, who lost the exchange, and the 315-pound Raiders defensive tackle&nbsp;Nichols was there to scoop it up&nbsp;and run for the touchdown.On the next offensive play for Kansas City,&nbsp;Mahomes was picked off by Jones,&nbsp;who returned it 33 yards for his second pick-6 in consecutive weeks.The Raiders' fourth defensive TD in the two weeks, and their second in a span of seven seconds, gave them a 17-7 lead over their longtime divisional nemesis.Then, Jones appeared to play&nbsp;the Grinch&nbsp;when he faked giving the ball to a kid wearing Chiefs clothes in the crowd.It was still 17-7 when the Chiefs' Butker, one of the NFL's most accurate kickers, missed a chip-shot field goal before halftime, and the Raiders tacked on a field goal late in the third quarter to take a 20-7 lead heading to the fourth.INJURIESChiefs CB L'Jarius Sneed left after making a tackle late in the third quarter. Pacheco went into the concussion protocol in the third quarter when his helmet popped off and he was kicked in the head. RG Trey Smith hurt his leg in the fourth quarter.UP NEXTThe Chiefs host AFC playoff contender Cincinnati (8-7) this coming Sunday at 3:25 p.m. The game will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703540587057.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) is stopped by Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Nate Hobbs (39) during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 25, 2023, in Kansas City. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) is stopped by Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Nate Hobbs (39) during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 25, 2023, in Kansas City. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure>

Raiders stun sloppy Chiefs with 20-14 win on Christmas Day

St. Joseph Christian girls use massive first half to put DeKalb away

St. Joseph Christian girls' basketball used a 28-0 run to go up 37-5 at halftime and pretty much cruised in a 69-17 win over DeKalb in the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Holiday Hoops Classic at Civic Arena Friday.

The Lions (8-2) got 35 points from Seward County Community College signee and senior Chloe Burnham.

DeKalb (5-4) was hindered by 18 turnovers, and the Tigers made only seven field goals in the game.

St. Joseph Christian has now won five in a row. The Lions will face Class 1 No. 8 Meadville (9-0) at 12 Courts of Christmas on Dec. 28.

Christian boys sink 13 threes, blow out DeKalb

Nick Orscheln put on a shooting clinic, scoring 24 points on six made threes and St. Joseph Christian rolled in a 95-42 win over DeKalb at Civic Arena Friday.

The Lions (9-1) won their fifth straight game while turning in a season-high scoring effort.

Johnston Stewart was also red hot throughout, scoring 22 points in the win. Hayden Riley scored 11 on three made triples. Ten Lions scored in all - six of them had seven points or more.

Devin Hall led DeKalb with an impressive 36-point performance, draining three shots from downtown himself. The Tigers (2-7) have lost six in a row.

While DeKalb is back home to Winston on Jan. 4, St. Joseph Christian will play Meadville in 12 Courts of Christmas on Dec. 28.

LeBlond girls continue strong defensive play, outlast North Andrew

Bishop LeBlond used a 13-3 run that stretched from the second quarter to third, and the Golden Eagles put North Andrew away in a 47-34 win at Civic Arena Thursday.

LeBlond (7-1) led by four points at the end of the first quarter. Then by nine at halftime, and then by 12 at the start of the fourth.

North Andrew (4-5) was able to keep the scoring down somewhat, but the Cardinals couldn't slow down Kyla Conard, who led LeBlond with 26 points, including four made three-pointers. Kayleigh Ziesel turned in 12.

Madison Lillard led North Andrew with 15 points. The Cardinals struggled with turnovers throughout, committing 22 of them.

Both LeBlond and North Andrew will take part in the LeBlond Holiday Tournament next week.

The Golden Eagles face Plattsburg on Dec. 27 at 7 p.m. North Andrew plays Savannah the same day at 4 p.m.

LeBlond boys stifle North Andrew in second half, score big win

Bishop LeBlond was firing on all cylinders early, going up 19-4 on North Andrew by the end of the first quarter.

North Andrew scored 15 second quarter points to get back in it, but then only scored 16 the entire second half. That allowed the Golden Eagles (7-3) to walk away with a 55-37 win Friday night.

Trey Icke led LeBlond with 15 points. Cooper Waterman scored 11, while Gannon Sewell tallied nine.

Braxon Linville led North Andrew (2-7) with 12 points. Mason Nester finished with 11. The Cardinals were an impressive 12-for-12 at the free throw line in the loss, but made only five offensive field goals in the final two quarters.

The win marked the 100th for LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres, who's in his seventh year as the coach of the Golden Eagles.

Both LeBlond and North Andrew take part in the LeBlond Holiday Tournament next week.

The Eagles face Lawson on Dec. 27 on 8:30 p.m. North Andrew will play Class 2 and fourth-ranked Plattsburg that same day at 5:30 p.m.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@mid-buchanandragonpride2530/streams">FOR A VIDEO ARCHIVE OF FRIDAY'S GAMES, AND TO WATCH ANY OF FRIDAY'S GAMES BACK IN THEIR ENTIREITY, CLICK HERE.</a>

Other scores from Friday Girls - East Buchanan 51 Maysville 33 Boys - Maysville 68 East Buchanan 65

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703304774147.jpeg" alt="Kyla Conard (20) drives against North Andrew's Briley Rainez (4). Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Kyla Conard (20) drives against North Andrew's Briley Rainez (4). Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Christian girls use massive first half to put DeKalb awaySt. Joseph Christian girls' basketball used a 28-0 run to go up 37-5 at halftime and pretty much cruised in a 69-17 win over DeKalb in the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Holiday Hoops Classic at Civic Arena Friday.The Lions (8-2) got 35 points from Seward County Community College signee and senior Chloe Burnham.DeKalb (5-4) was hindered by 18 turnovers, and the Tigers made only seven field goals in the game.St. Joseph Christian has now won five in a row. The Lions will face Class 1 No. 8 Meadville (9-0) at 12 Courts of Christmas on Dec. 28.DeKalb is home to Windsor on Jan. 4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703306868336.jpeg" alt="Lexi McDaniel (22)." />
 <figcaption>Lexi McDaniel (22).</figcaption>
 </figure>Christian boys sink 13 threes, blow out DeKalbNick Orscheln put on a shooting clinic, scoring 24 points on six made threes and St. Joseph Christian rolled in a 95-42 win over DeKalb at Civic Arena Friday.The Lions (9-1) won their fifth straight game while turning in a season-high scoring effort.Johnston Stewart was also red hot throughout, scoring 22 points in the win. Hayden Riley scored 11 on three made triples. Ten Lions scored in all - six of them had seven points or more.Devin Hall led DeKalb with an impressive 36-point performance, draining three shots from downtown himself. The Tigers (2-7) have lost six in a row.While DeKalb is back home to Winston on Jan. 4, St. Joseph Christian will play Meadville in 12 Courts of Christmas on Dec. 28.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703306903884.jpeg" alt="Johnston Stewart (5)." />
 <figcaption>Johnston Stewart (5).</figcaption>
 </figure>LeBlond girls continue strong defensive play, outlast North AndrewBishop LeBlond used a 13-3 run that stretched from the second quarter to third, and the Golden Eagles put North Andrew away in a 47-34 win at Civic Arena Thursday.LeBlond (7-1) led by four points at the end of the first quarter. Then by nine at halftime, and then by 12 at the start of the fourth.North Andrew (4-5) was able to keep the scoring down somewhat, but the Cardinals couldn't slow down Kyla Conard, who led LeBlond with 26 points, including four made three-pointers. Kayleigh Ziesel turned in 12.Madison Lillard led North Andrew with 15 points. The Cardinals struggled with turnovers throughout, committing 22 of them.Both LeBlond and North Andrew will take part in the LeBlond Holiday Tournament next week.The Golden Eagles face Plattsburg on Dec. 27 at 7 p.m. North Andrew plays Savannah the same day at 4 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703307089791.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart (3)." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart (3).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703307113547.jpeg" alt="Autumn Rasnic (14)." />
 <figcaption>Autumn Rasnic (14).</figcaption>
 </figure>LeBlond boys stifle North Andrew in second half, score big winBishop LeBlond was firing on all cylinders early, going up 19-4 on North Andrew by the end of the first quarter.North Andrew scored 15 second quarter points to get back in it, but then only scored 16 the entire second half. That allowed the Golden Eagles (7-3) to walk away with a 55-37 win Friday night.Trey Icke led LeBlond with 15 points. Cooper Waterman scored 11, while Gannon Sewell tallied nine.Braxon Linville led North Andrew (2-7) with 12 points. Mason Nester finished with 11. The Cardinals were an impressive 12-for-12 at the free throw line in the loss, but made only five offensive field goals in the final two quarters.The win marked the 100th for LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres, who's in his seventh year as the coach of the Golden Eagles.Both LeBlond and North Andrew take part in the LeBlond Holiday Tournament next week.The Eagles face Lawson on Dec. 27 on 8:30 p.m. North Andrew will play Class 2 and fourth-ranked Plattsburg that same day at 5:30 p.m.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@mid-buchanandragonpride2530/streams">FOR A VIDEO ARCHIVE OF FRIDAY'S GAMES, AND TO WATCH ANY OF FRIDAY'S GAMES BACK IN THEIR ENTIREITY, CLICK HERE.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703307136678.jpeg" alt="Trey McDaniel (3)." />
 <figcaption>Trey McDaniel (3).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703307157209.jpeg" alt="Cooper Waterman (12)." />
 <figcaption>Cooper Waterman (12).</figcaption>
 </figure>Other scores from Friday Girls - East Buchanan 51 Maysville 33 Boys - Maysville 68 East Buchanan 65You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Christian, Bishop LeBlond pick up sweeps over DeKalb, North Andrew

Eliana Arambula scored a game-high 21 points and the Benton girls' basketball team (7-2) held off Class 6 Battle, 59-55, at the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame High School Holiday Hoops Classic at Civic Arena Thursday.

Benton got off to an 18-13 start and lost the lead briefly to Battle in the second quarter. The Cardinals ended the first half, however, on a 12-2 run to go up 34-26 at the break.

Battle (4-4) hung around in the second half, and didn't make any serious dent in their deficit until the closing minutes.

Benton was up 13 in the fourth, 56-43, but a 9-0 run by the Spartans made things more interesting with just over a minute left.

Still, the Cardinals stood firm, as Benton hit 5-of-6 free throws in the fourth quarter alone to preserve their lead. Andrea Simmons scored 14 points, while Avery Morlock logged 13. Emma Loehnig had 8.

Sway Jones came off the bench and led Battle with 13 points. Jaleah Brookins had 12.

Benton has won six of their last seven. They'll play Capital City on Dec. 27 in the first round of the Jefferson City Invitational.

Benton boys battle hard, Battle pulls away late for win

The Benton Cardinals held their own against Class 6 No. 8 Battle, but the Spartans (7-2) whittled away at Benton late, coming away with a 61-47 victory at Civic Arena Thursday.

Benton (4-4) got down by 11 in the first half, but made a nice push and only trailed 32-28 at the break.

It remained a single digit game for most of the second half, but the Cardinals were never able to get in front. Benton led 4-0 to start, but Battle fired back to lead it at 6-4, and never trailed after that.

Benton was held to just five made field goals in the second half. Battle scored 15 fourth quarter points to put it on ice.

Tate McCubbin led Battle with 15 points. Vernell Holt Jr. had 12. Sophomore Lincoln Goodwin had a game-high 19 to lead Benton. Carson Schmidt and Talan McDowell each had 10.

Benton takes part in the Neosho Holiday Classic next week. They'll play Seneca on Dec. 27 at 2 p.m.

Other scores from Civic Arena Thursday Girls - North Platte 56 East Atchison 26 Boys - North Platte 66 East Atchison 46

Friday schedule 12:30 p.m. - East Buchanan vs. Maysville (girls) 2 p.m. - East Buchanan vs. Maysville (boys) 3:30 p.m. - St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (girls) 5 p.m. - St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (boys) 6:30 p.m. - Bishop LeBlond vs. North Andrew (girls) 8 p.m. - Bishop LeBlond vs. North Andrew (boys)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703218965926.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arambula. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arambula. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostEliana Arambula scored a game-high 21 points and the Benton girls' basketball team (7-2) held off Class 6 Battle, 59-55, at the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame High School Holiday Hoops Classic at Civic Arena Thursday.Benton got off to an 18-13 start and lost the lead briefly to Battle in the second quarter. The Cardinals ended the first half, however, on a 12-2 run to go up 34-26 at the break.Battle (4-4) hung around in the second half, and didn't make any serious dent in their deficit until the closing minutes.Benton was up 13 in the fourth, 56-43, but a 9-0 run by the Spartans made things more interesting with just over a minute left.Still, the Cardinals stood firm, as Benton hit 5-of-6 free throws in the fourth quarter alone to preserve their lead. Andrea Simmons scored 14 points, while Avery Morlock logged 13. Emma Loehnig had 8.Sway Jones came off the bench and led Battle with 13 points. Jaleah Brookins had 12.Benton has won six of their last seven. They'll play Capital City on Dec. 27 in the first round of the Jefferson City Invitational.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703219002238.jpeg" alt="Andrea Simmons (23)." />
 <figcaption>Andrea Simmons (23).</figcaption>
 </figure>Full game replay<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ftKhLdGEUXo?si=949Bb_ZpZ128iZdK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Benton boys battle hard, Battle pulls away late for winThe Benton Cardinals held their own against Class 6 No. 8 Battle, but the Spartans (7-2) whittled away at Benton late, coming away with a 61-47 victory at Civic Arena Thursday.Benton (4-4) got down by 11 in the first half, but made a nice push and only trailed 32-28 at the break.It remained a single digit game for most of the second half, but the Cardinals were never able to get in front. Benton led 4-0 to start, but Battle fired back to lead it at 6-4, and never trailed after that.Benton was held to just five made field goals in the second half. Battle scored 15 fourth quarter points to put it on ice.Tate McCubbin led Battle with 15 points. Vernell Holt Jr. had 12. Sophomore Lincoln Goodwin had a game-high 19 to lead Benton. Carson Schmidt and Talan McDowell each had 10.Benton takes part in the Neosho Holiday Classic next week. They'll play Seneca on Dec. 27 at 2 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703219079405.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Goodwin." />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Goodwin.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703219098175.jpeg" alt="Talan McDowell." />
 <figcaption>Talan McDowell.</figcaption>
 </figure>Full game replay<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eSdvzDCbEN8?si=8rbhHPmS5gjQxuSZ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Other scores from Civic Arena Thursday Girls - North Platte 56 East Atchison 26 Boys - North Platte 66 East Atchison 46Friday schedule 12:30 p.m. - East Buchanan vs. Maysville (girls) 2 p.m. - East Buchanan vs. Maysville (boys) 3:30 p.m. - St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (girls) 5 p.m. - St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (boys) 6:30 p.m. - Bishop LeBlond vs. North Andrew (girls) 8 p.m. - Bishop LeBlond vs. North Andrew (boys)You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.