The Missouri Western football team is back on the road this weekend for another big challenge on the MIAA schedule.

The Griffons, who look to break a two-game losing skid and get their first road win of the season, are at 23-ranked Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday afternoon.

Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. with coverage starting at 1 on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).

Missouri Western took a 30-7 loss at home to second-ranked Northwest Missouri State last Saturday - a game in which the Griffon offense gained only 101 total yards.

"Our engine just never really got started offensively," Williamson said at this week's Griffon Luncheon on JoeTown 107.5 FM. "(Northwest) did a great job of kind of just shutting everything down."

Williamson says the team is frustrated, but motivated to right the wrongs from last week and get back on track, especially on offense.

"We're looking forward to this next game," he said. "Our kids are really hacked off and kind of upset. I think our offense got punched in the mouth and didn't react very well. So, they're going to be ready to go this week."

Defensively, the Griffons played well at times against the Bearcats, forcing two turnovers, including a 56-yard scoop-and-score from freshman defensive lineman Brandon Johnson in the first quarter.

Missouri Western also kept Northwest scoreless in the third quarter, coming up with four consecutive stops.

It's the second quarter, however, that Williamson says his defense blew coverages on two big pass plays - one for 36 yards which was a touchdown, and another for 72 yards, which set up a Bearcat touchdown.

The game could have been different if, Williamson says, those two plays were better executed.

"I know our staff has talked to them about it," he mentioned. "I talked to them about it and we're making those corrections, because if we (stop those big plays), the game would have been different in the first half. Our offense still didn't get things going and we have to make corrections there, but defensively, it could have been a lot closer game if we hadn't missed those two assignments."

Kick return was also major problem for Western last week, as the Griffons averaged just 11 yards per return, starting four of their 11 possessions inside their own 15-yard line.

The Griffons face a Nebraska-Kearney team Saturday that’s 4-1 overall and fresh off of a 42-35 loss at Fort Hays State last week - a game in which the Lopers saw a 21-point second half lead slip away.

The Lopers rank fourth in the nation with 273 rushing yards per game. Their quarterback, T.J. Davis, has 1,594 all-purpose yards and 18 all-purpose touchdowns - 11 rushing and seven passing.

Nebraska-Kearney also runs an option-style offense, which Williamson says has caused their opponents headaches this season.

"He's very talented, Williamson said of UNK's dual threat quarterback. "We'll have to slow him down quite a bit. They're going to get yards rushing. Most options team do. So, we have to keep things in front. We can't give the big plays up."

Nebraska-Kearney beat Missouri Western in St. Joseph on Nov. 9, 2019, 49-21, spoiling the Griffons' senior day and any remaining MIAA title hopes.

The Lopers have won two of the last three meetings. The Griffons won the last meeting in Kearney, 25-17, on Nov. 3, 2018.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633642481241.jpeg" alt="Courtesy GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western football team is back on the road this weekend for another big challenge on the MIAA schedule.The Griffons, who look to break a two-game losing skid and get their first road win of the season, are at 23-ranked Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday afternoon.Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. with coverage starting at 1 on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).Missouri Western took a 30-7 loss at home to second-ranked Northwest Missouri State last Saturday - a game in which the Griffon offense gained only 101 total yards."Our engine just never really got started offensively," Williamson said at this week's Griffon Luncheon on JoeTown 107.5 FM. "(Northwest) did a great job of kind of just shutting everything down."Williamson says the team is frustrated, but motivated to right the wrongs from last week and get back on track, especially on offense."We're looking forward to this next game," he said. "Our kids are really hacked off and kind of upset. I think our offense got punched in the mouth and didn't react very well. So, they're going to be ready to go this week."Defensively, the Griffons played well at times against the Bearcats, forcing two turnovers, including a 56-yard scoop-and-score from freshman defensive lineman Brandon Johnson in the first quarter.Missouri Western also kept Northwest scoreless in the third quarter, coming up with four consecutive stops.It's the second quarter, however, that Williamson says his defense blew coverages on two big pass plays - one for 36 yards which was a touchdown, and another for 72 yards, which set up a Bearcat touchdown.The game could have been different if, Williamson says, those two plays were better executed."I know our staff has talked to them about it," he mentioned. "I talked to them about it and we're making those corrections, because if we (stop those big plays), the game would have been different in the first half. Our offense still didn't get things going and we have to make corrections there, but defensively, it could have been a lot closer game if we hadn't missed those two assignments."Kick return was also major problem for Western last week, as the Griffons averaged just 11 yards per return, starting four of their 11 possessions inside their own 15-yard line.The Griffons face a Nebraska-Kearney team Saturday that’s 4-1 overall and fresh off of a 42-35 loss at Fort Hays State last week - a game in which the Lopers saw a 21-point second half lead slip away.The Lopers rank fourth in the nation with 273 rushing yards per game. Their quarterback, T.J. Davis, has 1,594 all-purpose yards and 18 all-purpose touchdowns - 11 rushing and seven passing.Nebraska-Kearney also runs an option-style offense, which Williamson says has caused their opponents headaches this season."He's very talented, Williamson said of UNK's dual threat quarterback. "We'll have to slow him down quite a bit. They're going to get yards rushing. Most options team do. So, we have to keep things in front. We can't give the big plays up."Nebraska-Kearney beat Missouri Western in St. Joseph on Nov. 9, 2019, 49-21, spoiling the Griffons' senior day and any remaining MIAA title hopes.The Lopers have won two of the last three meetings. The Griffons won the last meeting in Kearney, 25-17, on Nov. 3, 2018.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU football looks to bounce back, faces another big challenge in Lopers Saturday

FAUCETT - It's one of those games you look at on the schedule in the beginning of the season that you know is going to be important. You know it's going to be special.

That's exactly the case this Friday night in Faucett as No. 2 Mid -Buchanan (6-0) hosts No. 5 East Buchanan (6-0) in a battle of unbeaten KCI rivals.

The winner also takes control of their own destiny in terms of the KCI Championship and also who gets the No. 1 seed in the Class 1 District 8 bracket.

It's been a special season for both teams, but second-year head coach Daniel Ritter knows the biggest goals and the biggest games are still out there.

"We know our goals have not been met yet," Ritter told KFEQ , "and they're more at the end of the season. Now, is this a big test for us on Friday? Absolutely, but our goals are beyond that."

East Buchanan is fresh off of a 44-20 win at home over Plattsburg last Friday, having already scored wins over two other tough KCI teams in Hamilton (4-2) and West Platte.

"We were definitely glad to get out of there with a win," Ritter said of the Plattsburg game. "Plattsburg has definitely been competing. They beat North Platte and they almost beat Lawson, so we knew they were a good team for sure."

East Buchanan had a solid season last year in Ritter's first season, going 8-3 and finishing second in the district to none other than Mid-Buchanan.

Of their 51 players on the roster, only 12 are upperclassmen. But seniors Conner Musser, Luke Webb and Cru Conaway, along with juniors Carson White and Adam Stephen-Inges have provided solid leadership on both sides of the ball.

Plus, sophomore Trevor Klein has been among the very best running backs in Class 1 with 680 yards rushing and nearly 1,100 all-purpose yards as the kick return man.

Mid-Buchanan, meanwhile, seeks its fourth straight district title after finishing as state runners-up to Windsor last season. Like the Bulldogs, the Dragons started this season a bit young, losing 12 seniors and several key starters from last year's team.

But with five returning starters on both sides of the ball, and a thirst to prove that they're every bit as good as last year, Mid-Buchanan had an explosive start to the season, outscoring their first five opponents a combined 237-19.

Last week, the Dragons had their biggest test to date, going on the road to face No. 9 Hamilton. Mid-Buchanan got off to a 21-0 start and held on for a 21-19 victory.

While he was happy to get the win, seventh-year head coach Aaron Fritz wants his team to bring that same intensity and explosiveness that they've shown in the first five weeks.

"We cannot quit having great focus and great physicality and we cannot slow down our effort," Fritz said. "All three of those things have to continue for us to be a good football team, and we have to be sure we're doing that non-stop."

The Dragons are led by senior quarterback Rawlins Brant, who has accounted for 1,278 all-purpose yards and 24 all-purpose touchdowns. He also has a team-best five sacks and three fumble recoveries on defense.

Senior Cage Burns has been up front on both sides of the ball, leading the team with 36 tackles.

Even with many new players in new and bigger roles this season, Fritz says his team has never doubted and has never waivered at any point this fall.

"Our kids still believe that we can win every game," Fritz remarked. "I think that's a big deal that even when things change and turnover happens in terms of your program and numbers changing that your kids still believe in your program and are still working hard and I think that's been a big positive for us."

Needless to say, this is a huge game for both teams. Not just for this season, but just overall. Only 11 miles separate the two communities, and everyone knows everyone on either side.

The two schools see each other in every other sport every year. Usually multiple times. Mid-Buchanan has won five of the last six meetings on the gridiron, including twice last year.

East Buchanan had won 10 in a row from 2010-2017. Whatever happens Friday will be remembered for a long time, and will only make those future meetings between Mid-Buchanan and East Buchanan that much more special.

"We're right next to each other and all of these young men know each other," Ritter said. "Their parents know each other. Really, they share a community. It definitely runs deep. It allows all of these people who live in one area to come together and celebrate their teams and their players."

Kickoff in Friday's game is set for 7 p.m. Pregame starts at 6:35 and the game can be heard on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and 680kfeqcom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687372821.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - It's one of those games you look at on the schedule in the beginning of the season that you know is going to be important. You know it's going to be special.That's exactly the case this Friday night in Faucett as No. 2 Mid -Buchanan (6-0) hosts No. 5 East Buchanan (6-0) in a battle of unbeaten KCI rivals.The winner also takes control of their own destiny in terms of the KCI Championship and also who gets the No. 1 seed in the Class 1 District 8 bracket.It's been a special season for both teams, but second-year head coach Daniel Ritter knows the biggest goals and the biggest games are still out there."We know our goals have not been met yet," Ritter told KFEQ , "and they're more at the end of the season. Now, is this a big test for us on Friday? Absolutely, but our goals are beyond that."East Buchanan is fresh off of a 44-20 win at home over Plattsburg last Friday, having already scored wins over two other tough KCI teams in Hamilton (4-2) and West Platte."We were definitely glad to get out of there with a win," Ritter said of the Plattsburg game. "Plattsburg has definitely been competing. They beat North Platte and they almost beat Lawson, so we knew they were a good team for sure."East Buchanan had a solid season last year in Ritter's first season, going 8-3 and finishing second in the district to none other than Mid-Buchanan.Of their 51 players on the roster, only 12 are upperclassmen. But seniors Conner Musser, Luke Webb and Cru Conaway, along with juniors Carson White and Adam Stephen-Inges have provided solid leadership on both sides of the ball.Plus, sophomore Trevor Klein has been among the very best running backs in Class 1 with 680 yards rushing and nearly 1,100 all-purpose yards as the kick return man.Mid-Buchanan, meanwhile, seeks its fourth straight district title after finishing as state runners-up to Windsor last season. Like the Bulldogs, the Dragons started this season a bit young, losing 12 seniors and several key starters from last year's team.But with five returning starters on both sides of the ball, and a thirst to prove that they're every bit as good as last year, Mid-Buchanan had an explosive start to the season, outscoring their first five opponents a combined 237-19.Last week, the Dragons had their biggest test to date, going on the road to face No. 9 Hamilton. Mid-Buchanan got off to a 21-0 start and held on for a 21-19 victory.While he was happy to get the win, seventh-year head coach Aaron Fritz wants his team to bring that same intensity and explosiveness that they've shown in the first five weeks."We cannot quit having great focus and great physicality and we cannot slow down our effort," Fritz said. "All three of those things have to continue for us to be a good football team, and we have to be sure we're doing that non-stop."The Dragons are led by senior quarterback Rawlins Brant, who has accounted for 1,278 all-purpose yards and 24 all-purpose touchdowns. He also has a team-best five sacks and three fumble recoveries on defense.Senior Cage Burns has been up front on both sides of the ball, leading the team with 36 tackles.Even with many new players in new and bigger roles this season, Fritz says his team has never doubted and has never waivered at any point this fall."Our kids still believe that we can win every game," Fritz remarked. "I think that's a big deal that even when things change and turnover happens in terms of your program and numbers changing that your kids still believe in your program and are still working hard and I think that's been a big positive for us."Needless to say, this is a huge game for both teams. Not just for this season, but just overall. Only 11 miles separate the two communities, and everyone knows everyone on either side.The two schools see each other in every other sport every year. Usually multiple times. Mid-Buchanan has won five of the last six meetings on the gridiron, including twice last year.East Buchanan had won 10 in a row from 2010-2017. Whatever happens Friday will be remembered for a long time, and will only make those future meetings between Mid-Buchanan and East Buchanan that much more special."We're right next to each other and all of these young men know each other," Ritter said. "Their parents know each other. Really, they share a community. It definitely runs deep. It allows all of these people who live in one area to come together and celebrate their teams and their players."Kickoff in Friday's game is set for 7 p.m. Pregame starts at 6:35 and the game can be heard on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and 680kfeqcom.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687416693.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687450363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687483740.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

East Buchanan travels to Mid-Buchanan for top five rivalry showdown

Winning three consecutive matches in a week, two of them against city rivals, and winning them all in four or more sets seems like a lot of fun.

The Lafayette volleyball team has certainly had some fun this week.

"For me, it's been exhausting," Irish head coach Laura Rehmeier chuckled. "But, it's shown our resiliency and our ability to not quit and to keep fighting."

The Irish (13-12), after dropping the first set to Bishop LeBlond 25-12, lost the second set 25-22, but stormed back to take set three 25-21, set four 25-18 and the fifth 15-11 at Grace Gymnasium inside Bishop LeBlond High School Thursday.

LeBlond got off to a 19-6 start in the first set and it seemed like, at that point, the match would end quickly in the Eagles' favor.

"We got off to a slow, slow start," Rehmeier admitted. "I mean, it just was not a pretty first set, and somewhere in the middle of that second set, we just kind of got it together and everything fell into place."

Even in the second, LeBlond was in control for most of the time, and had set point at 24-16, but the Irish reeled off six straight to lose the second by just three points.

The Eagles again got off to a big start in set three, leading 8-0, but a 10-3 run by the Irish tied the set 11-11, and Lafayette won a mostly back-and-forth third set, 25-21.

In the fourth, the Irish started off hot, leading 11-2 early. Lafayette weathered a 7-0 run by LeBlond in set four, and took the frame 25-18.

The fifth, again, started slow for Lafayette, and the Irish found themselves behind 8-4. But yet again, fortunes changed for the Irish, and after a timeout, they reeled off an 11-3 run to win the fifth 15-11 and beat the Eagles 3-2 on their Senior Night.

"The seniors pulled through," said Lafayette senior outside hitter Audrey Willoughby, who finished with 11 kills and two aces. "We brought some energy to the team. We had some sort of kickstart in us. We wanted to beat them on their Senior Night."

Another Lafayette senior, middle Khiani Jackson, brought her share of energy and then some Thursday, finishing with a match-high 18 kills, three blocks and two aces.

"Our energy started to drop," Jackson said of her team in the early part of the match. "And I feel like when we pick our energy up, we really show how we can play. Like, those first two sets were not our team."

Despite some service errors scattered throughout, Lafayette served very well at key moments, totaling nine ace serves in the match. In fact, it was back-to-back aces by junior Jazlyn King that ended the match in the fifth set.

Defensively, Lafayette had trouble stopping LeBlond's attack early. Junior Paige Perry led the Eagles (17-5-1) with 12 kills. Fellow junior Sadie Ward had eight kills and two aces, while senior Kianna Herrera had nine kills.

"We kind of adjusted our defense," Willoughby said. "They were kind of hitting spots that we weren't at. So, we kind of shifted our defense, because their outside (hitters) are very strong. They hit good spots."

Lafayette started out the week beating Benton 3-2 Monday and Chillicothe 3-1 Tuesday - both on their home floor. The Irish will take part in the Benton tournament Saturday, where they'll face the Cardinals, along with Bedford and Pembroke Hill.

With a couple more weeks left before district play, the Irish hope to make good on this late-season momentum and help their seniors end on a high note.

"We want it," Jackson said. "We just want it. There's nothing else I can really say about it. We just want the wins. We just want to have a good season. For me, it's my senior year. I just want to do good before it's over, you know?"

LeBlond will also take part in the Benton tournament on Saturday before going to Trenton Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633666754153.jpeg" alt="Lafayette celebrates a point in the fifth set. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette celebrates a point in the fifth set. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWinning three consecutive matches in a week, two of them against city rivals, and winning them all in four or more sets seems like a lot of fun.The Lafayette volleyball team has certainly had some fun this week."For me, it's been exhausting," Irish head coach Laura Rehmeier chuckled. "But, it's shown our resiliency and our ability to not quit and to keep fighting."The Irish (13-12), after dropping the first set to Bishop LeBlond 25-12, lost the second set 25-22, but stormed back to take set three 25-21, set four 25-18 and the fifth 15-11 at Grace Gymnasium inside Bishop LeBlond High School Thursday.LeBlond got off to a 19-6 start in the first set and it seemed like, at that point, the match would end quickly in the Eagles' favor."We got off to a slow, slow start," Rehmeier admitted. "I mean, it just was not a pretty first set, and somewhere in the middle of that second set, we just kind of got it together and everything fell into place."Even in the second, LeBlond was in control for most of the time, and had set point at 24-16, but the Irish reeled off six straight to lose the second by just three points.The Eagles again got off to a big start in set three, leading 8-0, but a 10-3 run by the Irish tied the set 11-11, and Lafayette won a mostly back-and-forth third set, 25-21.In the fourth, the Irish started off hot, leading 11-2 early. Lafayette weathered a 7-0 run by LeBlond in set four, and took the frame 25-18.The fifth, again, started slow for Lafayette, and the Irish found themselves behind 8-4. But yet again, fortunes changed for the Irish, and after a timeout, they reeled off an 11-3 run to win the fifth 15-11 and beat the Eagles 3-2 on their Senior Night."The seniors pulled through," said Lafayette senior outside hitter Audrey Willoughby, who finished with 11 kills and two aces. "We brought some energy to the team. We had some sort of kickstart in us. We wanted to beat them on their Senior Night."Another Lafayette senior, middle Khiani Jackson, brought her share of energy and then some Thursday, finishing with a match-high 18 kills, three blocks and two aces."Our energy started to drop," Jackson said of her team in the early part of the match. "And I feel like when we pick our energy up, we really show how we can play. Like, those first two sets were not our team."Despite some service errors scattered throughout, Lafayette served very well at key moments, totaling nine ace serves in the match. In fact, it was back-to-back aces by junior Jazlyn King that ended the match in the fifth set.Defensively, Lafayette had trouble stopping LeBlond's attack early. Junior Paige Perry led the Eagles (17-5-1) with 12 kills. Fellow junior Sadie Ward had eight kills and two aces, while senior Kianna Herrera had nine kills."We kind of adjusted our defense," Willoughby said. "They were kind of hitting spots that we weren't at. So, we kind of shifted our defense, because their outside (hitters) are very strong. They hit good spots."Lafayette started out the week beating Benton 3-2 Monday and Chillicothe 3-1 Tuesday - both on their home floor. The Irish will take part in the Benton tournament Saturday, where they'll face the Cardinals, along with Bedford and Pembroke Hill.With a couple more weeks left before district play, the Irish hope to make good on this late-season momentum and help their seniors end on a high note."We want it," Jackson said. "We just want it. There's nothing else I can really say about it. We just want the wins. We just want to have a good season. For me, it's my senior year. I just want to do good before it's over, you know?"LeBlond will also take part in the Benton tournament on Saturday before going to Trenton Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633666794925.jpeg" alt="Khiani Jackson (right) hits a ball in the first set against Bishop LeBlond." />
 <figcaption>Khiani Jackson (right) hits a ball in the first set against Bishop LeBlond.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633666863714.jpeg" alt="Audrey Willoughby (left) tries to hit a ball past LeBlond's Paige Perry (11) Thursday." />
 <figcaption>Audrey Willoughby (left) tries to hit a ball past LeBlond's Paige Perry (11) Thursday.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633666910576.jpeg" alt="LeBllond's Sadie Ward (left) tries to hit past two Lafayette blockers." />
 <figcaption>LeBllond's Sadie Ward (left) tries to hit past two Lafayette blockers.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette overcomes slow start, beats LeBlond on the road in five sets Thursday

SAVANNAH - Bishop LeBlond made history last fall when the girls' tennis team made it to state and finished in the top four for the first time since 2009.

The Eagles (10-3) look to repeat, if not rewrite history, in 2021. LeBlond went on the road and dominated a tough Savannah team, 5-0, at Savannah High School on Wednesday afternoon in the Class 1 District 16 team championship.

The Eagles dominated, going 3-0 in doubles and 2-0 in singles. LeBlond claims the district title for a second straight year, and qualifies for the state tournament as a team in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 1996-97.

"I'm so happy and so proud of them," LeBlond head tennis coach Jackson Gwinn said, leading the Eagles to state in his first season coaching the girls. "They did even better than I thought they would do. They really surpassed my expectations. Just...playing their best, playing their hardest, staying focused. That's all I can ask of them."

Senior Peyton Netten and sophomore Emily Weddle, who both qualified for state at the individual district tournament as a doubles team on Saturday, were also individual state qualifiers in 2020 - Netten went last year in doubles, and Weddle went last year in singles.

"It really shows how hard we work in practice to get to where we are," Netten said. "We wouldn't get to where we are without the work that we put in."

Weddle qualified for state in doubles as an individual for the first time Wednesday after going to state in singles as an individual, and going with the team to state as a freshman last year.

"I'm just really proud of myself," Weddle said. "Really excited. Just a really big accomplishment for me."

The doubles team of Netten and freshman Iris Ideker, who qualified for sectionals individually as a freshman in singles Saturday, won on Wednesday, 8-5. Weddle and freshman Murphy King won their doubles match Wednesday 8-3, while senior Lily Sullivan junior Katie King won their doubles match, 8-2.

In singles, Sullivan won her match 6-0, 6-1, and Weddle won 6-1, 6-1.

LeBlond moves on to team sectionals, where they'll face either Marshall or Lafayette County on October 11 - most likely at the Noyes Tennis Courts. Start time is to be determined.

Individual sectionals for doubles and singles start this weekend.

"Throughout the lineup, I was just very happy with their performance," Gwinn said. "Everyone just stayed tough and played their game and that's all we need to do. I think we'll keep doing well in sectionals and hopefully state if they just keep that mind set."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633572532881.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Katie King, Iris Ideker, Lily Sullivan, Peyton Netten, Emily Weddle and Murphy King. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Katie King, Iris Ideker, Lily Sullivan, Peyton Netten, Emily Weddle and Murphy King. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSAVANNAH - Bishop LeBlond made history last fall when the girls' tennis team made it to state and finished in the top four for the first time since 2009.The Eagles (10-3) look to repeat, if not rewrite history, in 2021. LeBlond went on the road and dominated a tough Savannah team, 5-0, at Savannah High School on Wednesday afternoon in the Class 1 District 16 team championship.The Eagles dominated, going 3-0 in doubles and 2-0 in singles. LeBlond claims the district title for a second straight year, and qualifies for the state tournament as a team in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 1996-97."I'm so happy and so proud of them," LeBlond head tennis coach Jackson Gwinn said, leading the Eagles to state in his first season coaching the girls. "They did even better than I thought they would do. They really surpassed my expectations. Just...playing their best, playing their hardest, staying focused. That's all I can ask of them."Senior Peyton Netten and sophomore Emily Weddle, who both qualified for state at the individual district tournament as a doubles team on Saturday, were also individual state qualifiers in 2020 - Netten went last year in doubles, and Weddle went last year in singles."It really shows how hard we work in practice to get to where we are," Netten said. "We wouldn't get to where we are without the work that we put in."Weddle qualified for state in doubles as an individual for the first time Wednesday after going to state in singles as an individual, and going with the team to state as a freshman last year."I'm just really proud of myself," Weddle said. "Really excited. Just a really big accomplishment for me."The doubles team of Netten and freshman Iris Ideker, who qualified for sectionals individually as a freshman in singles Saturday, won on Wednesday, 8-5. Weddle and freshman Murphy King won their doubles match Wednesday 8-3, while senior Lily Sullivan junior Katie King won their doubles match, 8-2.In singles, Sullivan won her match 6-0, 6-1, and Weddle won 6-1, 6-1.LeBlond moves on to team sectionals, where they'll face either Marshall or Lafayette County on October 11 - most likely at the Noyes Tennis Courts. Start time is to be determined.Individual sectionals for doubles and singles start this weekend."Throughout the lineup, I was just very happy with their performance," Gwinn said. "Everyone just stayed tough and played their game and that's all we need to do. I think we'll keep doing well in sectionals and hopefully state if they just keep that mind set."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633572610273.jpeg" alt="Murphy King." />
 <figcaption>Murphy King.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633572691329.jpeg" alt="Emily Weddle." />
 <figcaption>Emily Weddle.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633572709000.jpeg" alt="Iris Ideker." />
 <figcaption>Iris Ideker.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond girls' tennis sweeps Savannah to claim team district title  Wednesday

Volleyball Bishop LeBlond 3 West Platte 1 Cameron 3 East Buchanan 1 North Kansas City 3 St. Joseph Central 1 Lafayette 3 Chillicothe 1 Mid-Buchanan 3 Mound City 0 South Holt 3 North Platte 0

Softball Benton 4 Lafayette 3 in 8 innings St. Joseph Central 18 North Kansas City 4 Northeast Nodaway 7 Bishop LeBlond 6 East Buchanan 9 Hamilton 8 West Platte 9 Mid-Buchanan 8. The Bluejays erased an 8-1 deficit for their first win over the Dragons in softball since 2014.

North Andrew 17 South Holt 7 Worth County 4 Platte Valley 2 King City 5 Gallatin 3 Lathrop 11 Plattsburg 1 Lawson 8 North Platte 3

Boys’ soccer Maryville 4 Benton 0

Savannah 5 Maryville 1. The Savages now face LeBlond for a team district title on Wednesday in Savannah. LeBlond defeated Lafayette in team districts Tuesday, though the exact result was not available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633521630943.jpeg" alt="LeBlond tennis player Peyton Netton. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>LeBlond tennis player Peyton Netton. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostVolleyball Bishop LeBlond 3 West Platte 1 Cameron 3 East Buchanan 1 North Kansas City 3 St. Joseph Central 1 Lafayette 3 Chillicothe 1 Mid-Buchanan 3 Mound City 0 South Holt 3 North Platte 0Softball Benton 4 Lafayette 3 in 8 innings St. Joseph Central 18 North Kansas City 4 Northeast Nodaway 7 Bishop LeBlond 6 East Buchanan 9 Hamilton 8 West Platte 9 Mid-Buchanan 8. The Bluejays erased an 8-1 deficit for their first win over the Dragons in softball since 2014.North Andrew 17 South Holt 7 Worth County 4 Platte Valley 2 King City 5 Gallatin 3 Lathrop 11 Plattsburg 1 Lawson 8 North Platte 3Boys’ soccer Maryville 4 Benton 0Girls’ tennisSavannah 5 Maryville 1. The Savages now face LeBlond for a team district title on Wednesday in Savannah. LeBlond defeated Lafayette in team districts Tuesday, though the exact result was not available.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - October 5, 2021

Senior Ali Tauchen and sophomore Allie Kerns each had 10 kills, and Missouri Western volleyball dominated the middle set in a 3-0 win over Missouri Southern at MWSU Fieldhouse Tuesday.

The Griffons (11-4, 3-3 MIAA), winners in four of their last five matches, won the first and third set 25-18, but dominated the second 25-7, which is their largest margin of victory in any set this season. It marked Missouri Western's first sweep since a 3-0 win over Maryville University on Sept. 11.

"It was really nice to see us put together a full, three-set performance," Missouri Western coach Marian Carbin said. "We pretty consistently did the things we wanted to do."

Tauchen, who's now the program's all-time leader in career points with 1,438, was happy to help her team to victory Tuesday, but is also grateful to have cemented her name in Griffon history with the help of those she's played with.

"It's really special," Tauchen said of the achievement. "I think it speaks highly to how special this place is and the people here and I couldn't do it without any of my teammates present or past, so it's just a really big honor."

Missouri Western broke a 16-16 tie in set one, going on a 9-2 run late to take the set 25-18.

The Griffons got behind 2-0 to start in set two, but then went on a 20-2 run to end it. Missouri Western scored 11 unanswered points in the second set to pull ahead for good. Missouri Western had an outstanding .409 hitting percentage in the second set.

"We just took over and played Missouri Western volleyball," Tauchen said of the second set. "We got our own kills, we got digs and we didn't wait for them to make a mistake. We went and took the reigns."

Missouri Southern (3-12, 0-5 MIAA) hung around for awhile in set three, but junior Emilee McGowan&nbsp;broke open the third set for the Griffons, serving five straight points to give Missouri Western an 18-13 lead in the final set.

Missouri Western had a solid night serving, finishing with seven aces. They also managed 11 blocks compared to just four by the Lions.

"That's the type of team that we are," coach Carbin said. "A great serving team, a good blocking team. We like to get into our transition game and I think we did that really well."

The Griffons are on the road for their next three matches, starting Friday with a trip to Central Oklahoma. First serve is set for 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633488203093.jpeg" alt="Allie Kerns (middle) hits a ball during Missouri Western's 3-0 win over Missouri Southern Tuesday. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Allie Kerns (middle) hits a ball during Missouri Western's 3-0 win over Missouri Southern Tuesday. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSenior Ali Tauchen and sophomore Allie Kerns each had 10 kills, and Missouri Western volleyball dominated the middle set in a 3-0 win over Missouri Southern at MWSU Fieldhouse Tuesday.The Griffons (11-4, 3-3 MIAA), winners in four of their last five matches, won the first and third set 25-18, but dominated the second 25-7, which is their largest margin of victory in any set this season. It marked Missouri Western's first sweep since a 3-0 win over Maryville University on Sept. 11."It was really nice to see us put together a full, three-set performance," Missouri Western coach Marian Carbin said. "We pretty consistently did the things we wanted to do."Tauchen, who's now the program's all-time leader in career points with 1,438, was happy to help her team to victory Tuesday, but is also grateful to have cemented her name in Griffon history with the help of those she's played with."It's really special," Tauchen said of the achievement. "I think it speaks highly to how special this place is and the people here and I couldn't do it without any of my teammates present or past, so it's just a really big honor."Missouri Western broke a 16-16 tie in set one, going on a 9-2 run late to take the set 25-18.The Griffons got behind 2-0 to start in set two, but then went on a 20-2 run to end it. Missouri Western scored 11 unanswered points in the second set to pull ahead for good. Missouri Western had an outstanding .409 hitting percentage in the second set."We just took over and played Missouri Western volleyball," Tauchen said of the second set. "We got our own kills, we got digs and we didn't wait for them to make a mistake. We went and took the reigns."Missouri Southern (3-12, 0-5 MIAA) hung around for awhile in set three, but junior Emilee McGowan&nbsp;broke open the third set for the Griffons, serving five straight points to give Missouri Western an 18-13 lead in the final set.Missouri Western had a solid night serving, finishing with seven aces. They also managed 11 blocks compared to just four by the Lions."That's the type of team that we are," coach Carbin said. "A great serving team, a good blocking team. We like to get into our transition game and I think we did that really well."The Griffons are on the road for their next three matches, starting Friday with a trip to Central Oklahoma. First serve is set for 6 p.m.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western dominates second set, earns sweep over Missouri Southern

After more than 20 years of service to Missouri Western athletics, senior associate athletic director for external affairs Brett Esely is ready to take on a new challenge.

Starting January 3rd, he'll become the director of development at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau while also becoming director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission. Missouri Western made the announcement late last week.

Esely helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, becoming chair of their board. He also led efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.&nbsp;

"We were hopeful that it would one day turn into an opportunity for someone to lead that every day," Esely said of the sports commission. "That became a little bit of a reality late this summer that if our commission was going to go like this and continue this upward climb, it needed somebody that was able to focus on it on a day-to-day basis."&nbsp;

Esely's last day at Missouri Western is November 7. While he's excited to start a new chapter, he looks to finish strong in his last few weeks on campus, remaining thankful that he got to work at the University he went to and that he loves dearly.

"I love St. Joe," he said. "Was born and raised here. Don't ever have any plans to leave. As an alum of the institution, Missouri Western is a special place and always will be. The opportunities I've had at Missouri Western and the impact on my life have been unbelievable."

Esely started at Western as a student assistant men's basketball coach in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.

He oversees the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management. Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.

While he'll miss certain parts of his current job, Esely is thankful that he's not leaving his hometown of St. Joseph, and he looks forward to opportunities to still work closely with the University in the future.

"I'll still be around events," Esely said. "I'll still have the great chance of being an alum, because I graduated from the institution. Whereas this kind of closes one chapter of my life and another one opens, I'll still be here. I'm excited about the chance to impact our community in a way that has tremendous room for growth."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633429139451.jpeg" alt="Brett Esely at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau this past summer, announcing the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame class." />
 <figcaption>Brett Esely at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau this past summer, announcing the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame class.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter more than 20 years of service to Missouri Western athletics, senior associate athletic director for external affairs Brett Esely is ready to take on a new challenge.Starting January 3rd, he'll become the director of development at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau while also becoming director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission. Missouri Western made the announcement late last week.Esely helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, becoming chair of their board. He also led efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.&nbsp;"We were hopeful that it would one day turn into an opportunity for someone to lead that every day," Esely said of the sports commission. "That became a little bit of a reality late this summer that if our commission was going to go like this and continue this upward climb, it needed somebody that was able to focus on it on a day-to-day basis."&nbsp;Esely's last day at Missouri Western is November 7. While he's excited to start a new chapter, he looks to finish strong in his last few weeks on campus, remaining thankful that he got to work at the University he went to and that he loves dearly."I love St. Joe," he said. "Was born and raised here. Don't ever have any plans to leave. As an alum of the institution, Missouri Western is a special place and always will be. The opportunities I've had at Missouri Western and the impact on my life have been unbelievable."Esely started at Western as a student assistant men's basketball coach in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.He oversees the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management. Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.While he'll miss certain parts of his current job, Esely is thankful that he's not leaving his hometown of St. Joseph, and he looks forward to opportunities to still work closely with the University in the future."I'll still be around events," Esely said. "I'll still have the great chance of being an alum, because I graduated from the institution. Whereas this kind of closes one chapter of my life and another one opens, I'll still be here. I'm excited about the chance to impact our community in a way that has tremendous room for growth."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Esely looks to finish strong at Missouri Western, excited for new chapter at CVB

After a tough loss at Maryville just four days prior, Bishop LeBlond wanted to come back strong at home and play a complete match against an intracity rival.

LeBlond (10-2) got a hat trick from junior midfielder Noah Stevenson in the first half, and five more goals by the Eagles in the second half sent them to a 9-1 victory over Benton at Eagle Stadium Monday.

Stevenson put LeBlond on the board in the first 4:27 on an unassisted goal. He scored twice more in a nine-minute span to give his team a comfortable 3-0 lead early.

"We were getting really good through balls," Stevenson said. "I shanked a couple in the first (half) there and I had to make up for it. Yeah, I just kept my cool and put them in."

LeBlond got another goal in the first half from sophomore midfielder Davis Jungbluth. Benton (3-7) got on the board with 7:17 left in the first half with an unassisted goal from sophomore midfielder Ryker Wells.

The Cardinals, who lost to LeBlond 3-0 on August 31 in the city round robin, managed just two shots-on-goal Monday.

It took the Eagles a few minutes to get hot in the second half, but once they did, there was no turning back. A goal by senior midfielder Eli Spencer put LeBlond ahead 5-1 with 30:56 remaining.

Junior midfielder Aiden Seiter scored exactly 30 seconds after Spencer, and would get another goal just 59 seconds later, putting a surging LeBlond ahead 7-1.

"It was a fun game," Seiter said. "They played hard, we played hard. Teammates played the ball really hard. I was just there to finish."

Goals by senior defender Hayden Cross and sophomore striker Davis Jungbluth put the Eagles ahead 9-1, and the game was called with 11:33 still on the clock.

LeBlond stayed aggressive on the offensive end throughout, managing 18 shots-on-goal. Benton made a change at goalie halfway through the second half, subbing Ethan Colwell for Bradyn Hayes.

Hayes managed a couple of saves, but LeBlond scored on five of their seven shots-on-goal in the second half. A feel good win for a LeBlond team, which lost a 4-2 heartbreaker at Maryville last Thursday - a team that's also contending for an MEC title.

"It was a real confidence booster," Seiter said of Monday's match. "It helped us get our motivation back. I think we're going to go on and win these next couple of games as well. Hopefully beat Maryville in the end as well."

LeBlond, who will see Maryville again in St. Joseph on October 26, will go on the road Thursday to face Kansas City Lutheran.

Benton, who's lost four straight, will host Maryville on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633397011522.jpeg" alt="Adan Seiter dribbles in the first half. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Adan Seiter dribbles in the first half. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter a tough loss at Maryville just four days prior, Bishop LeBlond wanted to come back strong at home and play a complete match against an intracity rival.That they did.LeBlond (10-2) got a hat trick from junior midfielder Noah Stevenson in the first half, and five more goals by the Eagles in the second half sent them to a 9-1 victory over Benton at Eagle Stadium Monday.Stevenson put LeBlond on the board in the first 4:27 on an unassisted goal. He scored twice more in a nine-minute span to give his team a comfortable 3-0 lead early."We were getting really good through balls," Stevenson said. "I shanked a couple in the first (half) there and I had to make up for it. Yeah, I just kept my cool and put them in."LeBlond got another goal in the first half from sophomore midfielder Davis Jungbluth. Benton (3-7) got on the board with 7:17 left in the first half with an unassisted goal from sophomore midfielder Ryker Wells.The Cardinals, who lost to LeBlond 3-0 on August 31 in the city round robin, managed just two shots-on-goal Monday.It took the Eagles a few minutes to get hot in the second half, but once they did, there was no turning back. A goal by senior midfielder Eli Spencer put LeBlond ahead 5-1 with 30:56 remaining.Junior midfielder Aiden Seiter scored exactly 30 seconds after Spencer, and would get another goal just 59 seconds later, putting a surging LeBlond ahead 7-1."It was a fun game," Seiter said. "They played hard, we played hard. Teammates played the ball really hard. I was just there to finish."Goals by senior defender Hayden Cross and sophomore striker Davis Jungbluth put the Eagles ahead 9-1, and the game was called with 11:33 still on the clock.LeBlond stayed aggressive on the offensive end throughout, managing 18 shots-on-goal. Benton made a change at goalie halfway through the second half, subbing Ethan Colwell for Bradyn Hayes.Hayes managed a couple of saves, but LeBlond scored on five of their seven shots-on-goal in the second half. A feel good win for a LeBlond team, which lost a 4-2 heartbreaker at Maryville last Thursday - a team that's also contending for an MEC title."It was a real confidence booster," Seiter said of Monday's match. "It helped us get our motivation back. I think we're going to go on and win these next couple of games as well. Hopefully beat Maryville in the end as well."LeBlond, who will see Maryville again in St. Joseph on October 26, will go on the road Thursday to face Kansas City Lutheran.Benton, who's lost four straight, will host Maryville on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633397050405.jpeg" alt="Noah Stevenson (right) puts a ball in the back of the net in the first half." />
 <figcaption>Noah Stevenson (right) puts a ball in the back of the net in the first half.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633397102102.jpeg" alt="Davis Jungbluth (right) dribbles past Benton's Sage Miller (19)." />
 <figcaption>Davis Jungbluth (right) dribbles past Benton's Sage Miller (19).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Stevenson hat trick, two goals from Seiter lift LeBlond over Benton Monday

Patrick Mahomes threw five touchdown passes, including three to Tyreek Hill, and the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles 42-30 Sunday.

Andy Reid returned to Philadelphia and earned his 100th career win with the Chiefs, becoming the first coach in NFL history to win 100 games with two teams.

"The people here have been phenomenal since I got here," said Reid, who was briefly hospitalized after last week's loss to the Chargers. "My room was loaded with food so it was good to have a cheesesteak and a lot of other things. It's good to be back."

Reid’s 140 victories with the Eagles are the most in franchise history. Jalen Hurts threw for a career-high 378 yards and two TDs but Philadelphia (1-3) couldn’t keep up with Kansas City’s (2-2) high-powered offense.

The Eagles had three touchdowns negated by penalty and settled for field goals three times inside the red zone.

Mahomes was 24-of-30 for 278 yards. Hill had a monster day, catching 11 passes for 186 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire was solid, carrying the ball 14 times for 102 yards. He also had a receiving touchdown.

"We have to continue to build and get better," Mahomes said. "You don't win a season in September or early October. It's about getting better and better each week, and we're going to keep building and keep doing what we can to get better as a team."

The Chiefs return home to take on Buffalo (3-1) in a rematch of last season's AFC Championship. Kickoff on Sunday is set for 7:20 p.m. central. The game will be carried live on KFEQ (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633344248320.jpeg" alt="Andy Reid at training camp this past summer in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Andy Reid at training camp this past summer in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC and ASSOCIATED PRESSSt. Joseph PostPatrick Mahomes threw five touchdown passes, including three to Tyreek Hill, and the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles 42-30 Sunday.Andy Reid returned to Philadelphia and earned his 100th career win with the Chiefs, becoming the first coach in NFL history to win 100 games with two teams."The people here have been phenomenal since I got here," said Reid, who was briefly hospitalized after last week's loss to the Chargers. "My room was loaded with food so it was good to have a cheesesteak and a lot of other things. It's good to be back."Reid’s 140 victories with the Eagles are the most in franchise history. Jalen Hurts threw for a career-high 378 yards and two TDs but Philadelphia (1-3) couldn’t keep up with Kansas City’s (2-2) high-powered offense.The Eagles had three touchdowns negated by penalty and settled for field goals three times inside the red zone.Mahomes was 24-of-30 for 278 yards. Hill had a monster day, catching 11 passes for 186 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire was solid, carrying the ball 14 times for 102 yards. He also had a receiving touchdown."We have to continue to build and get better," Mahomes said. "You don't win a season in September or early October. It's about getting better and better each week, and we're going to keep building and keep doing what we can to get better as a team."The Chiefs return home to take on Buffalo (3-1) in a rematch of last season's AFC Championship. Kickoff on Sunday is set for 7:20 p.m. central. The game will be carried live on KFEQ (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

Mahomes throws for five TDs in win over Eagles, Reid gets 100th victory with Chiefs

Missouri Western made a monster play early in the first quarter defensively when a pass attempt by Northwest Missouri State quarterback Mike Hohensee was ruled a fumble and taken 56 yards the other way for a touchdown by freshman Brandon Johnson.

The Griffons created a massive spark in the first five minutes, but were unable to ignite much of anything else for the rest of the game.

No. 2 Northwest (4-0) scored 23 unanswered points on their next four possessions after the fumble, and they salted the game away late with their running game in a 30-7 win over Missouri Western at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph Saturday.

After a scoreless third quarter, Northwest started their last scoring drive at their own seven-yard line with 13:25 to play. What followed was a 14-play, 93-yard march that ended with a two-yard touchdown run by senior running back Al McKeller.

The touchdown put the Bearcats ahead by 23 with just over six minutes left.

An All-American transfer from the University of Indianapolis who has over 4,000 career rushing yards, McKeller accounted for 77 yards on the final drive alone, and finished the game with 171 yards rushing on 28 carries and two touchdowns.

While the Bearcats' offense certainly had their share of big plays, finishing with 433 total yards, their defense dominated throughout, holding the Griffons (2-3) to just 101 total yards of offense, including just eight rushing yards.

"On the execution part of it, we're not getting beat, but we're beating ourselves," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "We're either doing something incorrect or our technique is right and we're trying to do too much. We're not finishing blocks, we're not finishing tackles. There's a lot to it."

Missouri Western had 11 total possessions Saturday. Ten of them ended with a punt, including four three-and-outs. Another drive in the second half ended with a fumble.

Penalties were again a problem for the Griffons Saturday. After committing 10 penalties against Washburn the week prior, Western was called on 10 more penalties for 80 yards against Northwest.

One of those was an offsides penalty that negated a Devan Burrell interception in the first quarter that would have given the Griffons the ball back up 7-0. Several holding calls negated what would have been big offensive plays for MWSU.

"The thing that's killing us the most obviously is you look at the flags," Williamson pointed out. "You look at some of the holdings, and we're not executing. We're not disciplined. We lost this game, because we're undisciplined as a group, as a unit."

Hohensee put together a brilliant first half in the passing game for Northwest, completing 12-of-16 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns. He left the game late in the first half with injury and wouldn't return.

While Northwest was held scoreless in the third quarter, Missouri Western struggled to get anything going offensively in the second half.

Field position was a problem for the Griffons all night, as they started four drives inside their own 15-yard line, including one that started at their own one-yard line.

A couple of botched kick returns, a couple of holding calls on those returns and two punts pinned inside the 20 had Missouri Western playing in the shadow of their own end zone for much of the game.

"The flags put us in some really bad situations," Williamson remarked. "It made our offense try to move the ball 80-90 yards. That's a difficult task against a really good defense. Then we punt the ball and they start in plus territory, and we put our defense in some bad situations."

Quarterback Anthony Vespo got a few things going in the passing game, especially early. He completed 7-of-12 throws for 71 yards. He did however irritate his right shoulder Saturday - the same shoulder that got dinged up the week prior at Washburn but was rehabbed this past week in practice.

After a deep throw in the third quarter, Vespo felt some discomfort in his right arm, and was taken out. Freshman Reagan Jones relieved Vespo halfway through the third quarter, but the Griffon offense remained stagnant.

Missouri Western achieved multiple first downs on just two of their 11 possessions and crossed midfield only once.

Five sacks by Northwest didn't help things, either.

"We got into a situation where we were down and they knew we were going to have to throw it a little bit more," Williamson said. "(Northwest) just pinned their ears back. They got great pressure. O-line didn't protect very well."

The Griffons head back on the road October 9 to face No. 12 Nebraska-Kearney (4-1), who was upset at Fort Hays State 42-35 on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.

Pregame coverage will start at 1 p.m. on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).

The Griffons will study the Lopers in depth, just like they would any other opponent. However, Williamson wants to challenge himself, his staff and the team to find the answer to one question in the days leading up to their next game.

"When are we going to stop delivering, and giving things away, and force people to take them from us?" Williamson said. "That's the reality right now for me with this team...a lot of very disappointing things. A lot of corrections that I have to make, that our staff has to make."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633239128338.jpeg" alt="MWSU's Brandon Johnson celebrates after a 56-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Griffons' 30-7 loss to Northwest Missouri State Saturday. Courtesy photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>MWSU's Brandon Johnson celebrates after a 56-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Griffons' 30-7 loss to Northwest Missouri State Saturday. Courtesy photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western made a monster play early in the first quarter defensively when a pass attempt by Northwest Missouri State quarterback Mike Hohensee was ruled a fumble and taken 56 yards the other way for a touchdown by freshman Brandon Johnson.The Griffons created a massive spark in the first five minutes, but were unable to ignite much of anything else for the rest of the game.No. 2 Northwest (4-0) scored 23 unanswered points on their next four possessions after the fumble, and they salted the game away late with their running game in a 30-7 win over Missouri Western at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph Saturday.After a scoreless third quarter, Northwest started their last scoring drive at their own seven-yard line with 13:25 to play. What followed was a 14-play, 93-yard march that ended with a two-yard touchdown run by senior running back Al McKeller.The touchdown put the Bearcats ahead by 23 with just over six minutes left.An All-American transfer from the University of Indianapolis who has over 4,000 career rushing yards, McKeller accounted for 77 yards on the final drive alone, and finished the game with 171 yards rushing on 28 carries and two touchdowns.While the Bearcats' offense certainly had their share of big plays, finishing with 433 total yards, their defense dominated throughout, holding the Griffons (2-3) to just 101 total yards of offense, including just eight rushing yards."On the execution part of it, we're not getting beat, but we're beating ourselves," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "We're either doing something incorrect or our technique is right and we're trying to do too much. We're not finishing blocks, we're not finishing tackles. There's a lot to it."Missouri Western had 11 total possessions Saturday. Ten of them ended with a punt, including four three-and-outs. Another drive in the second half ended with a fumble.Penalties were again a problem for the Griffons Saturday. After committing 10 penalties against Washburn the week prior, Western was called on 10 more penalties for 80 yards against Northwest.One of those was an offsides penalty that negated a Devan Burrell interception in the first quarter that would have given the Griffons the ball back up 7-0. Several holding calls negated what would have been big offensive plays for MWSU."The thing that's killing us the most obviously is you look at the flags," Williamson pointed out. "You look at some of the holdings, and we're not executing. We're not disciplined. We lost this game, because we're undisciplined as a group, as a unit."Hohensee put together a brilliant first half in the passing game for Northwest, completing 12-of-16 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns. He left the game late in the first half with injury and wouldn't return.While Northwest was held scoreless in the third quarter, Missouri Western struggled to get anything going offensively in the second half.Field position was a problem for the Griffons all night, as they started four drives inside their own 15-yard line, including one that started at their own one-yard line.A couple of botched kick returns, a couple of holding calls on those returns and two punts pinned inside the 20 had Missouri Western playing in the shadow of their own end zone for much of the game."The flags put us in some really bad situations," Williamson remarked. "It made our offense try to move the ball 80-90 yards. That's a difficult task against a really good defense. Then we punt the ball and they start in plus territory, and we put our defense in some bad situations."Quarterback Anthony Vespo got a few things going in the passing game, especially early. He completed 7-of-12 throws for 71 yards. He did however irritate his right shoulder Saturday - the same shoulder that got dinged up the week prior at Washburn but was rehabbed this past week in practice.After a deep throw in the third quarter, Vespo felt some discomfort in his right arm, and was taken out. Freshman Reagan Jones relieved Vespo halfway through the third quarter, but the Griffon offense remained stagnant.Missouri Western achieved multiple first downs on just two of their 11 possessions and crossed midfield only once.Five sacks by Northwest didn't help things, either."We got into a situation where we were down and they knew we were going to have to throw it a little bit more," Williamson said. "(Northwest) just pinned their ears back. They got great pressure. O-line didn't protect very well."The Griffons head back on the road October 9 to face No. 12 Nebraska-Kearney (4-1), who was upset at Fort Hays State 42-35 on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.Pregame coverage will start at 1 p.m. on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).The Griffons will study the Lopers in depth, just like they would any other opponent. However, Williamson wants to challenge himself, his staff and the team to find the answer to one question in the days leading up to their next game."When are we going to stop delivering, and giving things away, and force people to take them from us?" Williamson said. "That's the reality right now for me with this team...a lot of very disappointing things. A lot of corrections that I have to make, that our staff has to make."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Northwest defense dominates Missouri Western in Saturday victory

We’re officially into the back half of the high school football regular season. It’s now week 6 in Missouri and week 5 in Kansas.

Below are all of the games we're following, starting with Missouri.

MEC Maryville 47 (3-3) Benton 12 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Benton home to St. Pius X - Week 7: Maryville home to Lincoln College Prep

Savannah 51 (3-3) Cameron 23 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Cameron @ Lafayette - Week 7: Savannah home to Chillicothe

Lafayette (5-1) 35 Chillicothe 34 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Lafayette home to Cameron - Week 7: Chillicothe @ Savannah

#10 Bishop LeBlond 44 (5-1)&nbsp;Kansas City East Christian 27 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Bishop LeBlond @ Nodaway Valley

KCI #2 Mid-Buchanan 21 (6-0) #9 Hamilton 19 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Mid-Buchanan home to East Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Hamilton home to Plattsburg

West Platte 14 (5-1)&nbsp;Lathrop 7 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson @ Lathrop - Week 7: West Platte @ North Platte

Lawson 50 (2-4) North Platte 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson home to Lathrop - Week 7: North Platte home to West Platte

#6 East Buchanan 44 (6-0)&nbsp;Plattsburg 20 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: East Buchanan @ Mid-Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Plattsburg @ Hamilton

Grand River Conference #1 Stanberry 55 (5-0)&nbsp;North Andrew 12 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: North Andrew home to Albany - Week 7: Stanberry home to North Shelby

#6 King City 74 (4-2)&nbsp;Rock Port 0 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: King City home to Schuyler County - Week 7: Rock Port home to Southwest Livingston

Knox County 72 (4-2)&nbsp;St. Joseph Christian 20 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: St. Joseph Christian @ St. Mary's Academy (KS)

Albany (3-3) 82&nbsp;Schuyler County 22 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Albany @ North Andrew

Maysville 39 (2-4) Princeton 16 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Maysville @ Trenton

#2 Worth County 56 (6-0)&nbsp;#7 Orrick 8 (4-1) - FINAL - Week 7: Worth County @ Pattonsburg

Gallatin 40 (4-2)&nbsp;Milan 6 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Gallatin @ Putnam County

Polo 30 (5-1) Trenton 20 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Trenton home to Maysville - Week 7: Polo @ Princeton

South Harrison 28 (3-3)&nbsp;Putnam County 14 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Harrison @ Milan

275 Conference Platte Valley 62 (4-2)&nbsp;Southwest Livingston 8 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte Valley home to DeKalb

South Holt 72 (4-2) Stewartsville-Osborn 20 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Holt @ Mound City - Week 7: Stewartsville-Osborn @ East Atchison

Nodaway Valley 58 (2-4) DeKalb 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: DeKalb @ Platte Valley - Week 7: Nodaway Valley home to Bishop LeBlond

#3 East Atchison 58 (6-0)&nbsp; Mound City (3-3) 6 - FINAL - Week 7: Mound City home to South Holt - Week 7: East Atchison home to Stewartsville-Osborn

Greater KC Suburban Conference Oak Park 48 (2-4)&nbsp;St. Joseph Central 21 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Central home to Lee's Summit

Platte County 62 (4-2)&nbsp; Ruskin 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte County home to Winnetonka

Kansas games Atchison 45 (4-1) Turner 12 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Atchison @ Sumner Academy

Hiawatha 45 (3-2)&nbsp;Jefferson West 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Hiawatha @ Holton

Jackson Heights 38 (3-2) Troy 15 (3-2) - FINAL - Week 6: Troy @ Valley Heights

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632962427566.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Jaron Saunders (left), left tackle Quentin Garrett (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Jaron Saunders (left), left tackle Quentin Garrett (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWe’re officially into the back half of the high school football regular season. It’s now week 6 in Missouri and week 5 in Kansas.Below are all of the games we're following, starting with Missouri.MEC Maryville 47 (3-3) Benton 12 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Benton home to St. Pius X - Week 7: Maryville home to Lincoln College PrepSavannah 51 (3-3) Cameron 23 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Cameron @ Lafayette - Week 7: Savannah home to ChillicotheLafayette (5-1) 35 Chillicothe 34 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Lafayette home to Cameron - Week 7: Chillicothe @ Savannah<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayette-football-coach-Ryan-Shroyer-e186ldn" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#10 Bishop LeBlond 44 (5-1)&nbsp;Kansas City East Christian 27 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Bishop LeBlond @ Nodaway ValleyKCI #2 Mid-Buchanan 21 (6-0) #9 Hamilton 19 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Mid-Buchanan home to East Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Hamilton home to Plattsburg<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Mid-Buchanan-football-coach-Aaron-Fritz-e186lb0" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>West Platte 14 (5-1)&nbsp;Lathrop 7 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson @ Lathrop - Week 7: West Platte @ North Platte<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/West-Platte-football-coach-Jim-Newsted-e186l7f" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Lawson 50 (2-4) North Platte 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson home to Lathrop - Week 7: North Platte home to West Platte#6 East Buchanan 44 (6-0)&nbsp;Plattsburg 20 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: East Buchanan @ Mid-Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Plattsburg @ HamiltonGrand River Conference #1 Stanberry 55 (5-0)&nbsp;North Andrew 12 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: North Andrew home to Albany - Week 7: Stanberry home to North Shelby<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Stanberry-head-football-coach-Shane-Hilton-e186lcs" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#6 King City 74 (4-2)&nbsp;Rock Port 0 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: King City home to Schuyler County - Week 7: Rock Port home to Southwest LivingstonKnox County 72 (4-2)&nbsp;St. Joseph Christian 20 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: St. Joseph Christian @ St. Mary's Academy (KS)Albany (3-3) 82&nbsp;Schuyler County 22 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Albany @ North AndrewMaysville 39 (2-4) Princeton 16 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Maysville @ Trenton<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Maysville-head-football-coach-Chris-McMillan-e186l8m" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#2 Worth County 56 (6-0)&nbsp;#7 Orrick 8 (4-1) - FINAL - Week 7: Worth County @ PattonsburgGallatin 40 (4-2)&nbsp;Milan 6 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Gallatin @ Putnam CountyPolo 30 (5-1) Trenton 20 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Trenton home to Maysville - Week 7: Polo @ PrincetonSouth Harrison 28 (3-3)&nbsp;Putnam County 14 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Harrison @ Milan275 Conference Platte Valley 62 (4-2)&nbsp;Southwest Livingston 8 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte Valley home to DeKalbSouth Holt 72 (4-2) Stewartsville-Osborn 20 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Holt @ Mound City - Week 7: Stewartsville-Osborn @ East Atchison<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/South-Holt-head-football-coach-Josh-Petersen-e186l3v" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Nodaway Valley 58 (2-4) DeKalb 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: DeKalb @ Platte Valley - Week 7: Nodaway Valley home to Bishop LeBlond#3 East Atchison 58 (6-0)&nbsp; Mound City (3-3) 6 - FINAL - Week 7: Mound City home to South Holt - Week 7: East Atchison home to Stewartsville-OsbornGreater KC Suburban Conference Oak Park 48 (2-4)&nbsp;St. Joseph Central 21 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Central home to Lee's SummitPlatte County 62 (4-2)&nbsp; Ruskin 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte County home to WinnetonkaKansas games Atchison 45 (4-1) Turner 12 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Atchison @ Sumner AcademyHiawatha 45 (3-2)&nbsp;Jefferson West 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Hiawatha @ HoltonJackson Heights 38 (3-2) Troy 15 (3-2) - FINAL - Week 6: Troy @ Valley HeightsRepublic County 16 (3-1)&nbsp;Riverside 6 (0-5) - FINAL - Week 6: Riverside home to Atchison CountyAtchison County 42 (4-1)&nbsp;Maur Hill Prep-Mount Academy 29 (2-3) - FINAL - Week 6: Maur Hill @ Nemaha CentralDoniphan West 62 (2-4)&nbsp;Maranatha Christian Academy 14 (0-5) - FINAL - Week 6: Doniphan West @ Clifton-ClydeMore scores<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/scoreboard/"> can be found here</a>.Tune into KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) every Friday night from 8-10 this fall for 'Friday Night Lights!' We'll have live scoring updates throughout the show, plus interviews with local coaches and media!You can also listen at 680kfeq.com or on the KFEQ mobile app!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631309150029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.