The Kansas City Chiefs had ideal conditions for a two-hour, fully padded practice Tuesday.

The Chiefs practiced under sunny skies with temperatures right around 70 to start the day. The best news of the day for the team was the return of corner Rashad Fenton to the practice field.

Fenton received shoulder surgery in the offseason and was inactive for OTAs and mandatory minicamp, and he was on the physically unable to perform list for the first 11 camp practices.

Now that he's back on the field, Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt says Fenton will slowly be reacclimated.

"He'll get a couple of the one-on-one (drills) and after that, we'll just continue to matriculate into all of the other periods," Merritt said. "It's been great having him back and he's been great in the classroom for us."

Fenton appeared in 14 games and started eight of them last year, recording seven pass deflections and 49 total tackles. He joins a stacked room of talent, including rookie corner Trent McDuffie and third-year pro L'Jarius Sneed, who Fenton played behind last season.

With Charvarius Ward no longer on the team, Fenton will likely play a key role in the defensive backfield, but he certainly has competition. Rookies Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams are also competing for time.

Many of Andy Reid’s assistants and support staff took to the podium following Tuesday’s practice. Back on the staff this year is Matt Nagy - senior offensive assistant and quarterbacks coach.

He was formerly the offensive coordinator in Kansas City from 2013-2017 and then head coach of the Chicago Bears from 2018-2021 before getting fired in February.

Being back in KC, Nagy says it’s been great getting reacquainted, and he credited Reid, Eric Bieniemy, Patrick Mahomes and general manager Brett Veach for the success they’ve had since he’s been gone.

"We work together and we help each other out," Nagy said. "There's zero egos. It is kind of like riding a bicycle, but at the point in time, we're all in this for one reason. Zero egos and we're here to win. That's it."

Nagy was brought back to the Chiefs in February, filling the shoes of Mike Kafka, who left to be offensive coordinator for the Giants.

"The last four years of me not being here and what Coach Reid, Veach, Patrick and (Bieniemy) and the rest of this group has done is nothing short of amazing," Nagy commented. "We had a lot of good times up to that point and now I'm back. I appreciate that and it means a lot to me."

The Chiefs added 50 new players to their roster this offseason, and those newcomers are trying to find their way onto the 53-man active roster.

 Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Borgonzi is in his 14th year with the team. He says camp is always exciting, but he’s eager to see these new players get their first in-game experience on Saturday during the preseason game in Chicago.

"Excited about this weekend," Borgonzi said. "Another exciting opportunity for these guys to come out and showcase what they can do and compete. Great opportunity for us to kind of evaluate them in game conditions now."

The Chiefs play at the Bears this Saturday at noon central - the first of three preseason games Kansas City will play this month.

Several Chiefs rookies have had productive camps. Running back Isiah Pacheco and receiver Skyy Moore probably top the list, but the aforementioned McDuffie and Joshua Williams are certainly there.

 Borgonzi also mentioned seventh-round pick and corner Jaylen Watson as someone making an impact.

"Watson is a bigger corner who can run," he said. "Even (rookie safety) Nazeeh (Johnson) is somebody who ran a (4.35-second 40-yard dash). They have these traits. When you're looking for those traits, what's the characteristics that's going to make them work? They all kind of have that. They all tried to get better every year in college."

Pacheco - confirmed kick returner. McDuffie punt returner?

Special teams coach Dave Toub mentioned about a week ago that Pacheco would be the starting kick returner for the Chiefs' first preseason game, and he reaffirmed that decision Tuesday, with that first game now just four days away.

"We're going to give him every chance to be that guy," Toub said of Pacheco. "I just think he has all of the attributes of being a good kick returner and he's gotten better and better at practice. He's doing little things better, he's catching the ball great."

At punt return, Mecole Hardman has been taking reps at that spot. He's been the go-to guy there for the past three seasons. Toub likes Moore and McDuffie back there as well.

"McDuffie is the best punt catcher we have," Toub remarked.

Justin Reid as backup kicker? Maybe one day.

Justin Reid went viral when he knocked through a 65-yard field goal after practice on Sunday.

Toward the end of a special teams session Tuesday, Toub decided to let Reid try again. This time, from about 52 yards. It was well short and shanked to the left.

"I wanted to surprise (Reid)," Toub said. "I saw him hanging out. He's always hanging out at the field goal drill. So, I wanted to surprise him and see how he would handle it. I don't think we found our backup kicker yet. But, he has a strong leg so we'll keep seeing what he can do."

The one new injury to report Tuesday is that of defensive back Zayne Anderson, who left practice around 9:30 a.m. It was later disclosed that he has a shoulder injury. No word yet on how serious.

Receiver Daurice Fountain (groin), tight end Jody Forston (quad), defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee) and receiver Gary Jennings (concussion) did not practice Tuesday. Offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee) is still on the PUP list.

The Chiefs have the day off from practice Wednesday, will be back Thursday and then travel to Chicago Friday.

The team practices Monday - Thursday of next week, with August 18 being the last day of camp.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660077584222.jpeg" alt="The Chiefs warm up at the start of Tuesday's practice. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Chiefs warm up at the start of Tuesday's practice. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs had ideal conditions for a two-hour, fully padded practice Tuesday.The Chiefs practiced under sunny skies with temperatures right around 70 to start the day. The best news of the day for the team was the return of corner Rashad Fenton to the practice field.Fenton received shoulder surgery in the offseason and was inactive for OTAs and mandatory minicamp, and he was on the physically unable to perform list for the first 11 camp practices.Now that he's back on the field, Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt says Fenton will slowly be reacclimated."He'll get a couple of the one-on-one (drills) and after that, we'll just continue to matriculate into all of the other periods," Merritt said. "It's been great having him back and he's been great in the classroom for us."Fenton appeared in 14 games and started eight of them last year, recording seven pass deflections and 49 total tackles. He joins a stacked room of talent, including rookie corner Trent McDuffie and third-year pro L'Jarius Sneed, who Fenton played behind last season.With Charvarius Ward no longer on the team, Fenton will likely play a key role in the defensive backfield, but he certainly has competition. Rookies Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams are also competing for time.Many of Andy Reid’s assistants and support staff took to the podium following Tuesday’s practice. Back on the staff this year is Matt Nagy - senior offensive assistant and quarterbacks coach.He was formerly the offensive coordinator in Kansas City from 2013-2017 and then head coach of the Chicago Bears from 2018-2021 before getting fired in February.Being back in KC, Nagy says it’s been great getting reacquainted, and he credited Reid, Eric Bieniemy, Patrick Mahomes and general manager Brett Veach for the success they’ve had since he’s been gone."We work together and we help each other out," Nagy said. "There's zero egos. It is kind of like riding a bicycle, but at the point in time, we're all in this for one reason. Zero egos and we're here to win. That's it."Nagy was brought back to the Chiefs in February, filling the shoes of Mike Kafka, who left to be offensive coordinator for the Giants."The last four years of me not being here and what Coach Reid, Veach, Patrick and (Bieniemy) and the rest of this group has done is nothing short of amazing," Nagy commented. "We had a lot of good times up to that point and now I'm back. I appreciate that and it means a lot to me."New players making an impactThe Chiefs added 50 new players to their roster this offseason, and those newcomers are trying to find their way onto the 53-man active roster. Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Borgonzi is in his 14th year with the team. He says camp is always exciting, but he’s eager to see these new players get their first in-game experience on Saturday during the preseason game in Chicago."Excited about this weekend," Borgonzi said. "Another exciting opportunity for these guys to come out and showcase what they can do and compete. Great opportunity for us to kind of evaluate them in game conditions now."The Chiefs play at the Bears this Saturday at noon central - the first of three preseason games Kansas City will play this month.Several Chiefs rookies have had productive camps. Running back Isiah Pacheco and receiver Skyy Moore probably top the list, but the aforementioned McDuffie and Joshua Williams are certainly there. Borgonzi also mentioned seventh-round pick and corner Jaylen Watson as someone making an impact."Watson is a bigger corner who can run," he said. "Even (rookie safety) Nazeeh (Johnson) is somebody who ran a (4.35-second 40-yard dash). They have these traits. When you're looking for those traits, what's the characteristics that's going to make them work? They all kind of have that. They all tried to get better every year in college."Pacheco - confirmed kick returner. McDuffie punt returner?Special teams coach Dave Toub mentioned about a week ago that Pacheco would be the starting kick returner for the Chiefs' first preseason game, and he reaffirmed that decision Tuesday, with that first game now just four days away."We're going to give him every chance to be that guy," Toub said of Pacheco. "I just think he has all of the attributes of being a good kick returner and he's gotten better and better at practice. He's doing little things better, he's catching the ball great."At punt return, Mecole Hardman has been taking reps at that spot. He's been the go-to guy there for the past three seasons. Toub likes Moore and McDuffie back there as well."McDuffie is the best punt catcher we have," Toub remarked.Justin Reid as backup kicker? Maybe one day.Justin Reid went viral when he knocked through a 65-yard field goal after practice on Sunday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It’s good! 🙌🏾🎯 <a href="https://t.co/GImF4CCVND">pic.twitter.com/GImF4CCVND</a>&mdash; Justin Reid (@JustinqReid) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinqReid/status/1556331699113443328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Toward the end of a special teams session Tuesday, Toub decided to let Reid try again. This time, from about 52 yards. It was well short and shanked to the left."I wanted to surprise (Reid)," Toub said. "I saw him hanging out. He's always hanging out at the field goal drill. So, I wanted to surprise him and see how he would handle it. I don't think we found our backup kicker yet. But, he has a strong leg so we'll keep seeing what he can do."Injury updateThe one new injury to report Tuesday is that of defensive back Zayne Anderson, who left practice around 9:30 a.m. It was later disclosed that he has a shoulder injury. No word yet on how serious.Receiver Daurice Fountain (groin), tight end Jody Forston (quad), defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee) and receiver Gary Jennings (concussion) did not practice Tuesday. Offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee) is still on the PUP list.The Chiefs have the day off from practice Wednesday, will be back Thursday and then travel to Chicago Friday.The team practices Monday - Thursday of next week, with August 18 being the last day of camp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660077657188.jpeg" alt="Michael Burton (45) looks to make a catch during a one-on-one period." />
 <figcaption>Michael Burton (45) looks to make a catch during a one-on-one period.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660077683714.jpeg" alt="Blake Bell (81)." />
 <figcaption>Blake Bell (81).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660077709425.jpeg" alt="Offensive and defensive linemen partake in individual blocking drills." />
 <figcaption>Offensive and defensive linemen partake in individual blocking drills.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660077729574.jpeg" alt="Jerick McKinnon (red) hauls in a pass." />
 <figcaption>Jerick McKinnon (red) hauls in a pass.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs assistants give update on training camp after Tuesday practice

By JAMES WALKER and JUDITH R. HILTNER <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-vin-scully-scored-his-dodgers-gig-at-22-years-old-188264">The Conversation</a>

Vin Scully, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/02/sports/baseball/vin-scully-dead.html">who died on Aug. 2, 2022</a>,
 is widely viewed as the greatest baseball announcer of all time. But 
for an earlier generation, his mentor, Red Barber, held that 
distinction.

In our recent biography “<a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Red_Barber/lWhgEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">Red Barber: The Life and Legacy of a Broadcasting Legend</a>,”
 we uncovered moving private letters and public references documenting 
the rich personal bonds between these two great voices of the game.

In 1939, Barber brought daily radio broadcasts of Dodgers baseball to
 Brooklyn’s fans for the first time. By the time Scully arrived in 1950,
 Barber – known as “<a href="https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=19921022&amp;slug=1520043">the Old Redhead</a>” – was the toast of Flatbush.

For a combined century – 33 years for Barber and 67 for Scully – the 
two blessed baseball fans with some of the sharpest word pictures ever 
painted of the grand old game. Together in the Brooklyn booth for four 
crucial years, from 1950 to 1953, they forged a relationship that proved
 to be both demanding and gratifying.

After Scully graduated with a degree in English from Fordham 
University in 1949, he papered East Coast radio stations with 
applications. <a href="https://vault.si.com/vault/1964/05/04/the-transistor-kid">He eventually scored an interview with CBS Radio</a>, where Barber was director of sports. Barber came away impressed, but there were no openings at the time.

Barber later phoned Vin Scully when, at the last minute, he needed a 
reporter to cover a college football contest at Fenway Park in Boston 
for CBS College Football Roundup. Scully’s mother answered the phone and
 took the message for Vin that <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Voices_of_the_Game/oNBwQgAACAAJ?hl=en">“Red Skelton” wanted to talk to him about a job</a> – confusing Barber with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Skelton">the popular entertainer</a>.

Fortunately, Scully figured out who was calling. He hustled to the 
park, only to learn there was no room for him in the press box. With 
only a light topcoat to defend himself against the cruel New England 
elements, he had to call the entire game from the roof, braving the 
winds on a chilly fall day with only a 60-watt light bulb to warm his 
hands. Barber, initially unaware of Scully’s plight, later wrote that 
when he learned his announcer had called the game from the roof, he was 
impressed by the young broadcaster’s stamina and even more impressed 
that Scully had never complained about the brutal conditions.

When <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ2EG3t3fEI">Ernie Harwell</a>,
 who would become the legendary voice of the Detroit Tigers, left the 
Brooklyn Dodgers’ broadcast booth for the New York Giants, Red Barber 
needed to find a replacement. He decided to go with the young 
broadcaster <a href="https://ufdc.ufl.edu/AA00067187/00001/downloads">who had so impressed him</a> – later describing Scully as “a pretty appealing young green pea … a boy who had something on the ball.”

So Vin Scully, just 22 years old, <a href="https://dodgers.mlblogs.com/on-this-date-70-years-ago-today-vin-scully-joins-the-booth-a66648e399e8">was given the chance of a lifetime</a>, to broadcast the games of the Brooklyn Dodgers, the National League’s most successful team.

But this golden opportunity was challenging in ways Scully did not foresee.

Red Barber, who early in life planned to be a college professor, was a
 tough grader. He demanded a lot of himself, and he held those who 
worked with him to just as high a standard. 

When Vin first entered the Dodgers broadcast booth, Barber told the 
young man that his job was to do whatever Red and his colleague Connie 
Desmond didn’t want to do. He also made it clear that any Scully errors 
would be corrected on air for all to hear. When Barber saw Scully 
drinking a beer with his pregame sandwich – a common practice at the 
time – <a href="https://ufdc.ufl.edu/AA00067191/00001/downloads">he told Vin he never wanted to see him do it again</a>.

Barber was no teetotaler – far from it; leisure hours drinks were 
something he treasured. But he believed a broadcaster should never have a
 drink, even a beer, on the job. Barber reasoned if Scully made an 
error, something inevitable for a broadcaster ad-libbing for hours at a 
time, anyone who saw him sipping the press room brew would conclude that
 alcohol had clouded his performance.

One of Red’s broadcasting mantras was <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Broadcasters/bpFZAAAAMAAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">pregame preparation</a>.
 So before one game, when Scully told his mentor that a Dodgers’ regular
 would be out of the lineup, Barber demanded to know why. Scully told 
him he had no idea. To Barber, that was unacceptable.

Scully quickly realized that he needed to know the “whys”; he had to 
get to the stadium early and spend time talking with managers and 
players, absorbing compelling facts and stories to keep listeners 
engaged during slow stretches of each contest.

The delicate bonds that develop between any mentor and mentee, though
 often fruitful, almost always involve some degree of resentment and 
frustration, likely because each member of the pair has so much vested 
in winning the respect and affection of the other. Some of Barber’s 
barbs must have stung. But throughout his career Scully always credited 
Red for instilling in him the discipline and values of a professional 
baseball announcer. <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Red_Barber/lWhgEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">He claimed</a>
 that the greatest virtue of Red as a mentor “was the fact that he 
cared. I wasn’t just another kid in the booth, just another announcer. …
 He made sure that my work habits were good, and he rode me if I drifted
 away from his ideal of the right way to work.”

In 1953, Barber left the Brooklyn booth after a dispute over his pay. 

Ahead of that season’s World Series between the Dodgers and the New 
York Yankees, the Series’ sponsor, Gillette, offered Barber only $200 
per game, take it or leave it. Barber left it, and when he did not get 
the support he wanted from Dodgers owner Walter O’Malley, he decided to 
sit out the Series and sign with the Yankees for the following season.

Gillette then turned to Scully, asking him if he’d announce the 
Series. Scully called Red seeking his permission. Barber was genuinely 
moved by Scully’s request, given that his permission clearly was not 
needed.  

All of a sudden, Scully, at the age of 25, was thrust onto the 
national stage. He remains the youngest person to ever call a World 
Series. Two years later, he announced the Brooklyn Dodgers’ only World 
Series win, and in 1958 he moved with the club to Los Angeles, where he 
would call games for the next 59 seasons.

Barber and Scully maintained an affectionate dialogue for the remainder of Red’s life.

When Barber and Mel Allen were honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame as the first recipients of the <a href="https://baseballhall.org/discover-more/awards/887">Ford C. Frick Award</a>, presented yearly to a broadcaster for “major contributions to baseball,” <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Red_Barber/lWhgEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">Scully wrote his old teacher</a>,
 “I know as well as anyone alive what a true artist you were behind the 
mike. There is a great deal of you in anything I do well in 
play-by-play, and it will live in me as long as I am working.”

<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/1992/10/23/obituaries/red-barber-baseball-voice-of-summer-is-dead-at-84.html">When Barber died in 1992</a>, <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=lWhgEAAAQBAJ&amp;pg=PA421&amp;lpg=PA421&amp;dq=%22radio%27s+first+poet%22+vin+scully+reader%27s+digest&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=eKTwjzRZ9i&amp;sig=ACfU3U20PiKT9ghjq_j_phD7Wi3yq3zg8g&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipi_j9srD5AhXvGFkFHaZ5AIQQ6AF6BAgCEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=%22radio's%20first%20poet%22%20vin%20scully%20reader's%20digest&amp;f=false">Scully penned a tribute</a> in Reader’s Digest, calling him “radio’s first poet … and the most honorable man I ever met.”

At Barber’s funeral, Scully <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=lWhgEAAAQBAJ&amp;pg=PA416&amp;lpg=PA416&amp;dq=%22Now+don%E2%80%99t+you+talk+about+me+during+the+game.+These+people+aren%E2%80%99t+tuning+in+to+hear+about+me.+Talk+about+the+game.%22&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=eKTwjyO0aa&amp;sig=ACfU3U0RPFLsb-840mAH9SYnTQ8e10yLOQ&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjBsqDXg7D5AhWthIkEHSHWAt0Q6AF6BAgCEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=%22Now%20don%E2%80%99t%20you%20talk%20about%20me%20during%20the%20game.%20These%20people%20aren%E2%80%99t%20tuning%20in%20to%20hear%20about%20me.%20Talk%20about%20the%20game.%22&amp;f=false">told a reporter</a>
 that he was preparing to announce the fourth game of the World Series 
when he first learned of Red’s death. After absorbing the sad news, he 
began hearing his old mentor chiding him: “Now don’t you talk about me 
during the game. These people aren’t tuning in to hear about me. Talk 
about the game.”

James Walker is
 Past Executive Director of the International Association for 
Communication and Sport and Emeritus Professor of Communication at Saint 
Xavier University. Judith R. Hiltner is Emeritus Professor of English at Saint Xavier University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659497855884.png" alt="Scully" />
 <figcaption>Scully</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES WALKER and JUDITH R. HILTNER <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-vin-scully-scored-his-dodgers-gig-at-22-years-old-188264">The Conversation</a>Vin Scully, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/02/sports/baseball/vin-scully-dead.html">who died on Aug. 2, 2022</a>,
 is widely viewed as the greatest baseball announcer of all time. But 
for an earlier generation, his mentor, Red Barber, held that 
distinction.In our recent biography “<a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Red_Barber/lWhgEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">Red Barber: The Life and Legacy of a Broadcasting Legend</a>,”
 we uncovered moving private letters and public references documenting 
the rich personal bonds between these two great voices of the game. In 1939, Barber brought daily radio broadcasts of Dodgers baseball to
 Brooklyn’s fans for the first time. By the time Scully arrived in 1950,
 Barber – known as “<a href="https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=19921022&amp;slug=1520043">the Old Redhead</a>” – was the toast of Flatbush. For a combined century – 33 years for Barber and 67 for Scully – the 
two blessed baseball fans with some of the sharpest word pictures ever 
painted of the grand old game. Together in the Brooklyn booth for four 
crucial years, from 1950 to 1953, they forged a relationship that proved
 to be both demanding and gratifying.<h2>The chance of a lifetime</h2>After Scully graduated with a degree in English from Fordham 
University in 1949, he papered East Coast radio stations with 
applications. <a href="https://vault.si.com/vault/1964/05/04/the-transistor-kid">He eventually scored an interview with CBS Radio</a>, where Barber was director of sports. Barber came away impressed, but there were no openings at the time.Barber later phoned Vin Scully when, at the last minute, he needed a 
reporter to cover a college football contest at Fenway Park in Boston 
for CBS College Football Roundup. Scully’s mother answered the phone and
 took the message for Vin that <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Voices_of_the_Game/oNBwQgAACAAJ?hl=en">“Red Skelton” wanted to talk to him about a job</a> – confusing Barber with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Skelton">the popular entertainer</a>.Fortunately, Scully figured out who was calling. He hustled to the 
park, only to learn there was no room for him in the press box. With 
only a light topcoat to defend himself against the cruel New England 
elements, he had to call the entire game from the roof, braving the 
winds on a chilly fall day with only a 60-watt light bulb to warm his 
hands. Barber, initially unaware of Scully’s plight, later wrote that 
when he learned his announcer had called the game from the roof, he was 
impressed by the young broadcaster’s stamina and even more impressed 
that Scully had never complained about the brutal conditions.When <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ2EG3t3fEI">Ernie Harwell</a>,
 who would become the legendary voice of the Detroit Tigers, left the 
Brooklyn Dodgers’ broadcast booth for the New York Giants, Red Barber 
needed to find a replacement. He decided to go with the young 
broadcaster <a href="https://ufdc.ufl.edu/AA00067187/00001/downloads">who had so impressed him</a> – later describing Scully as “a pretty appealing young green pea … a boy who had something on the ball.”So Vin Scully, just 22 years old, <a href="https://dodgers.mlblogs.com/on-this-date-70-years-ago-today-vin-scully-joins-the-booth-a66648e399e8">was given the chance of a lifetime</a>, to broadcast the games of the Brooklyn Dodgers, the National League’s most successful team. But this golden opportunity was challenging in ways Scully did not foresee.<h2>Barber takes Scully under his wing</h2>Red Barber, who early in life planned to be a college professor, was a
 tough grader. He demanded a lot of himself, and he held those who 
worked with him to just as high a standard. When Vin first entered the Dodgers broadcast booth, Barber told the 
young man that his job was to do whatever Red and his colleague Connie 
Desmond didn’t want to do. He also made it clear that any Scully errors 
would be corrected on air for all to hear. When Barber saw Scully 
drinking a beer with his pregame sandwich – a common practice at the 
time – <a href="https://ufdc.ufl.edu/AA00067191/00001/downloads">he told Vin he never wanted to see him do it again</a>.Barber was no teetotaler – far from it; leisure hours drinks were 
something he treasured. But he believed a broadcaster should never have a
 drink, even a beer, on the job. Barber reasoned if Scully made an 
error, something inevitable for a broadcaster ad-libbing for hours at a 
time, anyone who saw him sipping the press room brew would conclude that
 alcohol had clouded his performance.One of Red’s broadcasting mantras was <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Broadcasters/bpFZAAAAMAAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">pregame preparation</a>.
 So before one game, when Scully told his mentor that a Dodgers’ regular
 would be out of the lineup, Barber demanded to know why. Scully told 
him he had no idea. To Barber, that was unacceptable.Scully quickly realized that he needed to know the “whys”; he had to 
get to the stadium early and spend time talking with managers and 
players, absorbing compelling facts and stories to keep listeners 
engaged during slow stretches of each contest.The delicate bonds that develop between any mentor and mentee, though
 often fruitful, almost always involve some degree of resentment and 
frustration, likely because each member of the pair has so much vested 
in winning the respect and affection of the other. Some of Barber’s 
barbs must have stung. But throughout his career Scully always credited 
Red for instilling in him the discipline and values of a professional 
baseball announcer. <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Red_Barber/lWhgEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">He claimed</a>
 that the greatest virtue of Red as a mentor “was the fact that he 
cared. I wasn’t just another kid in the booth, just another announcer. …
 He made sure that my work habits were good, and he rode me if I drifted
 away from his ideal of the right way to work.”<h2>Scully in the spotlight</h2>In 1953, Barber left the Brooklyn booth after a dispute over his pay. Ahead of that season’s World Series between the Dodgers and the New 
York Yankees, the Series’ sponsor, Gillette, offered Barber only $200 
per game, take it or leave it. Barber left it, and when he did not get 
the support he wanted from Dodgers owner Walter O’Malley, he decided to 
sit out the Series and sign with the Yankees for the following season.Gillette then turned to Scully, asking him if he’d announce the 
Series. Scully called Red seeking his permission. Barber was genuinely 
moved by Scully’s request, given that his permission clearly was not 
needed. All of a sudden, Scully, at the age of 25, was thrust onto the 
national stage. He remains the youngest person to ever call a World 
Series. Two years later, he announced the Brooklyn Dodgers’ only World 
Series win, and in 1958 he moved with the club to Los Angeles, where he 
would call games for the next 59 seasons.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xCS8jmV0WiE"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barber and Scully maintained an affectionate dialogue for the remainder of Red’s life.When Barber and Mel Allen were honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame as the first recipients of the <a href="https://baseballhall.org/discover-more/awards/887">Ford C. Frick Award</a>, presented yearly to a broadcaster for “major contributions to baseball,” <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Red_Barber/lWhgEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=0">Scully wrote his old teacher</a>,
 “I know as well as anyone alive what a true artist you were behind the 
mike. There is a great deal of you in anything I do well in 
play-by-play, and it will live in me as long as I am working.”<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/1992/10/23/obituaries/red-barber-baseball-voice-of-summer-is-dead-at-84.html">When Barber died in 1992</a>, <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=lWhgEAAAQBAJ&amp;pg=PA421&amp;lpg=PA421&amp;dq=%22radio%27s+first+poet%22+vin+scully+reader%27s+digest&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=eKTwjzRZ9i&amp;sig=ACfU3U20PiKT9ghjq_j_phD7Wi3yq3zg8g&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipi_j9srD5AhXvGFkFHaZ5AIQQ6AF6BAgCEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=%22radio's%20first%20poet%22%20vin%20scully%20reader's%20digest&amp;f=false">Scully penned a tribute</a> in Reader’s Digest, calling him “radio’s first poet … and the most honorable man I ever met.” At Barber’s funeral, Scully <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=lWhgEAAAQBAJ&amp;pg=PA416&amp;lpg=PA416&amp;dq=%22Now+don%E2%80%99t+you+talk+about+me+during+the+game.+These+people+aren%E2%80%99t+tuning+in+to+hear+about+me.+Talk+about+the+game.%22&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=eKTwjyO0aa&amp;sig=ACfU3U0RPFLsb-840mAH9SYnTQ8e10yLOQ&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjBsqDXg7D5AhWthIkEHSHWAt0Q6AF6BAgCEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=%22Now%20don%E2%80%99t%20you%20talk%20about%20me%20during%20the%20game.%20These%20people%20aren%E2%80%99t%20tuning%20in%20to%20hear%20about%20me.%20Talk%20about%20the%20game.%22&amp;f=false">told a reporter</a>
 that he was preparing to announce the fourth game of the World Series 
when he first learned of Red’s death. After absorbing the sad news, he 
began hearing his old mentor chiding him: “Now don’t you talk about me 
during the game. These people aren’t tuning in to hear about me. Talk 
about the game.”James Walker is
 Past Executive Director of the International Association for 
Communication and Sport and Emeritus Professor of Communication at Saint 
Xavier University. Judith R. Hiltner is Emeritus Professor of English at Saint Xavier University.<div><iframe src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/188264/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" width="1" height="1"></iframe></div>

🎥 How Vin Scully scored his Dodgers gig at 22 years old

Bishop LeBlond is still somewhat of a new kid on the block in Missouri 8-man football.

The Golden Eagles went down to 8-man in 2019 and finished 2-7, followed by a 3-4 mark in 2020.

The tables turned in a big way for LeBlond in 2021, as the Eagles started the season 4-0 and made it to the district championship game, where they fell to a rock solid King City group, 42-28, in state quarterfinals.

Confidence is high for LeBlond in 2022, and rightfully so. The Eagles return six starters on both sides of the ball and are led by a group of nine seniors.

"Really (the key) is keep the ball rolling in the direction we had it going a year ago," third-year head coach Chuck Davis said. "The district championship didn't end in a way that we would have liked, obviously. We had some guys banged up. We played a really good, big, physical King City team and that's left our kids, I think, pretty hungry."

Signal caller Landon Gardner is back for his fourth and final year as a starter. Gardner had a massive junior campaign at quarterback, passing for 1979 yards and 31 touchdowns with just eight interceptions. He added to that 1099 rushing yards and 22 scores on the ground.

Gardner also led the team defensively with 112 total tackles, nine interceptions and three fumble recoveries.

"It was a big step in the program," Gardner said of last season's success. "We don't think we're going backwards, so hopefully we can do better than that 10-2 record this year and hopefully end with something special."

Fellow senior Jake Korell is the top returning receiver. He hauled in 42 passes for 863 yards and a team-best 15 receiving touchdowns.

"The past couple of seasons, we haven't been the best," Korell remarked. "Last year really just boosted up our confidence. A lot of people are talking about us now. Which, I mean, is kind of hard, but it feels good at the same time. I feel like we can do a lot this year."

Korell and Gardner were freshmen when LeBlond started as an eight-man team. Korell recalls about 20 kids participating then. The Eagles now list 29 players on their roster posted on the MSHSAA website.

It took some tough seasons to get to this point, but LeBlond proved one thing in 2021 - they're ready to contend in the eight-man ranks in 2022 and beyond.

"With success comes more expectations from your opponents also," Davis said. "I think we're going to have a target on our back with a lot of teams, starting week one at Pattonsburg and our schedule just gets tougher as we go along."

LeBlond opens at Pattonsburg on August 26. They'll partake in the East Atchison jamboree on August 19. Their schedule also includes a home test against Archie, who beat LeBlond last year, 28-24, and a road trip to last year's state runner-up Worth County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660008549670.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond is still somewhat of a new kid on the block in Missouri 8-man football.The Golden Eagles went down to 8-man in 2019 and finished 2-7, followed by a 3-4 mark in 2020.The tables turned in a big way for LeBlond in 2021, as the Eagles started the season 4-0 and made it to the district championship game, where they fell to a rock solid King City group, 42-28, in state quarterfinals.Confidence is high for LeBlond in 2022, and rightfully so. The Eagles return six starters on both sides of the ball and are led by a group of nine seniors."Really (the key) is keep the ball rolling in the direction we had it going a year ago," third-year head coach Chuck Davis said. "The district championship didn't end in a way that we would have liked, obviously. We had some guys banged up. We played a really good, big, physical King City team and that's left our kids, I think, pretty hungry."Signal caller Landon Gardner is back for his fourth and final year as a starter. Gardner had a massive junior campaign at quarterback, passing for 1979 yards and 31 touchdowns with just eight interceptions. He added to that 1099 rushing yards and 22 scores on the ground.Gardner also led the team defensively with 112 total tackles, nine interceptions and three fumble recoveries."It was a big step in the program," Gardner said of last season's success. "We don't think we're going backwards, so hopefully we can do better than that 10-2 record this year and hopefully end with something special."Fellow senior Jake Korell is the top returning receiver. He hauled in 42 passes for 863 yards and a team-best 15 receiving touchdowns."The past couple of seasons, we haven't been the best," Korell remarked. "Last year really just boosted up our confidence. A lot of people are talking about us now. Which, I mean, is kind of hard, but it feels good at the same time. I feel like we can do a lot this year."Korell and Gardner were freshmen when LeBlond started as an eight-man team. Korell recalls about 20 kids participating then. The Eagles now list 29 players on their roster posted on the MSHSAA website.It took some tough seasons to get to this point, but LeBlond proved one thing in 2021 - they're ready to contend in the eight-man ranks in 2022 and beyond."With success comes more expectations from your opponents also," Davis said. "I think we're going to have a target on our back with a lot of teams, starting week one at Pattonsburg and our schedule just gets tougher as we go along."LeBlond opens at Pattonsburg on August 26. They'll partake in the East Atchison jamboree on August 19. Their schedule also includes a home test against Archie, who beat LeBlond last year, 28-24, and a road trip to last year's state runner-up Worth County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660009215900.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660009238657.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660009260949.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Post Preview: LeBlond football looks to build off of historic 2021 season

The MIAA has announced that it will utilize an instant replay system, approved by the NCAA, during the upcoming football season. Last week, the NCAA granted the MIAA’s request for exemption from some of the instant replay requirements listed in the 2022 NCAA Football Rule Book, approving the MIAA to become the first conference outside of Division I to implement the use of an instant replay system during football games. “The MIAA is honored to be selected as the conference to test the&nbsp;SkyCoach&nbsp;Instant Replay system during the fall 2022 MIAA football season,” said Commissioner&nbsp;Mike Racy in a statement.&nbsp;“The system will provide our Referee with an on-field replay system to immediately review all targeting calls, and it will permit MIAA head coaches to ask for a review of certain plays during the game per NCAA Football Rule 12.” The preliminary plan for the MIAA’s use of instant replay this season is to allow stoppages for a replay review to occur whenever a targeting foul is called, or when a coach’s challenge is made. In previous seasons, the MIAA has reviewed targeting calls at halftime and at the conclusion of games. Now, all targeting fouls that are called will be reviewable by the officials immediately.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe MIAA has announced that it will utilize an instant replay system, approved by the NCAA, during the upcoming football season. Last week, the NCAA granted the MIAA’s request for exemption from some of the instant replay requirements listed in the 2022 NCAA Football Rule Book, approving the MIAA to become the first conference outside of Division I to implement the use of an instant replay system during football games. “The MIAA is honored to be selected as the conference to test the&nbsp;SkyCoach&nbsp;Instant Replay system during the fall 2022 MIAA football season,” said Commissioner&nbsp;Mike Racy in a statement.&nbsp;“The system will provide our Referee with an on-field replay system to immediately review all targeting calls, and it will permit MIAA head coaches to ask for a review of certain plays during the game per NCAA Football Rule 12.” The preliminary plan for the MIAA’s use of instant replay this season is to allow stoppages for a replay review to occur whenever a targeting foul is called, or when a coach’s challenge is made. In previous seasons, the MIAA has reviewed targeting calls at halftime and at the conclusion of games. Now, all targeting fouls that are called will be reviewable by the officials immediately.

MIAA to use instant replay, coaches challenges in 2022 season

Monday was one of the more lowkey training camp practices the Kansas City Chiefs have had so far.

With overcast conditions, temperatures in the low 70s and a smaller-than-normal crowd, the Chiefs practiced for a swift 75 minutes Monday, working out in half-pads and completing a 10-10-10 practice.

A 10-10-10 means 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays and 10 minutes of special teams play. That process was repeated twice during Monday's workout.

With the starting offense going against the second-team defense, and the starting defense going against the third-team offense, there's not a lot to ream from practices like these.

One thing is clear, however. With eleven practices down, more difficult roster decisions are coming, as the Chiefs try and find the right combination for their 53-man roster this season.

One area where that could be especially difficult is wide receiver. Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore seem perfectly safe. But those behind them, guys like Josh Gordon, Daurice Fountain, Justin Watson, Corey Coleman, Cornell Powell, Omar Bayless.

All capable receivers, but not adequate room for all of them. Be that as it may, coach Andy Reid has liked the competition at that spot.

"It's good," he said. "(General manager Brett Veach) has brought in great people. He's brought in good players that are going to compete. Somewhere, we're going to have to let good players go, but it's a tribute to Brett and the job he's done."

One receiver who could be on the outside looking in is Gordon, which is probably not expected for someone who was drafted 10 years ago and is entering his sixth season in the NFL.

After a bit of a slow start to training camp, Reid has noticed a greater sense of urgency from Gordon.

"He's had really good days the last few days," Reid noted. "I appreciate his effort and he's kind of the senior citizen of that group. He's the older receiver in that mix and has had success in this league."

Gordon has mostly worked with the second-team offense this camp, but he's had a handful of reps with Patrick Mahomes and the first-teamers, especially in the last few days.

After Monday's practice, Gordon was asked how confident he is in making the 53-man roster.

"I just want to go out and get the opportunities I get and give it 110%," Gordon said. "Let the cards fall where they may and see what happens, but I don't have an answer for that to be honest. I don't. I wasn't a starter last year, so I'm fighting for a spot like everybody else."

Gordon was signed by the Chiefs last September and elevated to the active roster in October. He played in 12 games last season, making just five receptions for 32 yards, but he scored his first touchdown since 2019 on a one-yard reception in the Las Vegas game in December.

Gordon has faced six total suspensions related to the NFL's substance abuse policies. The Chiefs are the fourth NFL team he's played for. Gordon led the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 and was named a first-team All-Pro.

The Chiefs bring back their entire starting offensive line from last season after making major changes in that group following the Super Bowl loss to Tampa Bay.

On the defensive front, Kansas City is revamped. The Chiefs had just 31 sacks in 2021, which ranked 29th in the league. Seventh-year pro and defensive tackle Chris Jones feels confident about his group’s progression since the end of last season.

"I think we left a lot of opportunities last year and in our last game of the season on the field," Jones remarked. "We were able to make a few changes in the defensive line room with a lot of familiar faces back. This year, I think it's about being gritty. Stopping the run, stopping the pass and doing whatever we can to help this defense out."

The Chiefs signed defensive ends Carlos Dunlap and Matt Dickerson during camp to provide depth. Rookie and first-round pick George Karlaftis also adds an additional pass rusher to the defensive line.

Frank Clark and Mike Danna also add experience at defensive end, while Derrick Nnadi is a fifth-year pro at defensive tackle. Tackles Tershawn Wharton and Khalen Saunders have also gotten solid reps on the interior of the line.

Starting center Creed Humphrey has taken notice of the solid competition up front.

"It's been very competitive these last couple of weeks," he said. "We've had some really humid, hot days. Everybody has been pretty moist out there. Just getting after it though and competing every play. So, it's been really good. You kind of see the mental toughness we have in the group and what the defensive line has in their group."

As many have probably seen by now, former Chiefs coach and longtime NFL head man Dick Vermeil was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio this past Saturday.

He and Andy Reid have quite a bit in common. Namely, they have both coached the Eagles and Chiefs. Vermeil coached the Eagles from 1976-1982, the Rams from '97-'99 and then the Chiefs from 2001-2005.

Reid says Vermeil talked to him extensively, once Reid took over the Eagles in 1999 and again in 2013 when he got the Chiefs job.

Reid says he and Vermeil talk a lot more often than that, about once a week. Reid made the trip down to Canton with his wife, Tammy, to honor a longtime friend and mentor.

"He talked to me about the atmosphere (in Kansas City) and...he coached me up on it," Reid said. "That's priceless. I mean, that's priceless. And he checks in all of the time."

Receiver Daurice Fountain didn't work Monday due to a groin strain. Still no Jody Forston, as he's "making progress" with a strained quad injury. Corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) and offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee) remain on the injured list. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee bruise) is also still out.

The Chiefs signed defensive end Matt Dickerson Monday and released Shilique Calhoun to make room on the 90-man roster. On Saturday, the Chiefs signed receiver Devin Gray and released corner Deandre Baker.

Gray was getting his first reps in with the team Monday. Dickerson was seen Monday morning as well, wearing jersey No. 96.

The Chiefs have camp again on Tuesday and will rest Wednesday. They'll work Thursday and then travel Friday, heading to Chicago for their first preseason game against the Bears Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659985586175.jpeg" alt="Patrick Mahomes (15) and Creed Humphrey (52). Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Patrick Mahomes (15) and Creed Humphrey (52). Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMonday was one of the more lowkey training camp practices the Kansas City Chiefs have had so far.With overcast conditions, temperatures in the low 70s and a smaller-than-normal crowd, the Chiefs practiced for a swift 75 minutes Monday, working out in half-pads and completing a 10-10-10 practice.A 10-10-10 means 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays and 10 minutes of special teams play. That process was repeated twice during Monday's workout.With the starting offense going against the second-team defense, and the starting defense going against the third-team offense, there's not a lot to ream from practices like these.One thing is clear, however. With eleven practices down, more difficult roster decisions are coming, as the Chiefs try and find the right combination for their 53-man roster this season.One area where that could be especially difficult is wide receiver. Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore seem perfectly safe. But those behind them, guys like Josh Gordon, Daurice Fountain, Justin Watson, Corey Coleman, Cornell Powell, Omar Bayless.All capable receivers, but not adequate room for all of them. Be that as it may, coach Andy Reid has liked the competition at that spot."It's good," he said. "(General manager Brett Veach) has brought in great people. He's brought in good players that are going to compete. Somewhere, we're going to have to let good players go, but it's a tribute to Brett and the job he's done."One receiver who could be on the outside looking in is Gordon, which is probably not expected for someone who was drafted 10 years ago and is entering his sixth season in the NFL.After a bit of a slow start to training camp, Reid has noticed a greater sense of urgency from Gordon."He's had really good days the last few days," Reid noted. "I appreciate his effort and he's kind of the senior citizen of that group. He's the older receiver in that mix and has had success in this league."Gordon has mostly worked with the second-team offense this camp, but he's had a handful of reps with Patrick Mahomes and the first-teamers, especially in the last few days.After Monday's practice, Gordon was asked how confident he is in making the 53-man roster."I just want to go out and get the opportunities I get and give it 110%," Gordon said. "Let the cards fall where they may and see what happens, but I don't have an answer for that to be honest. I don't. I wasn't a starter last year, so I'm fighting for a spot like everybody else."Gordon was signed by the Chiefs last September and elevated to the active roster in October. He played in 12 games last season, making just five receptions for 32 yards, but he scored his first touchdown since 2019 on a one-yard reception in the Las Vegas game in December.Gordon has faced six total suspensions related to the NFL's substance abuse policies. The Chiefs are the fourth NFL team he's played for. Gordon led the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 and was named a first-team All-Pro.Revamped defensive lineThe Chiefs bring back their entire starting offensive line from last season after making major changes in that group following the Super Bowl loss to Tampa Bay.On the defensive front, Kansas City is revamped. The Chiefs had just 31 sacks in 2021, which ranked 29th in the league. Seventh-year pro and defensive tackle Chris Jones feels confident about his group’s progression since the end of last season."I think we left a lot of opportunities last year and in our last game of the season on the field," Jones remarked. "We were able to make a few changes in the defensive line room with a lot of familiar faces back. This year, I think it's about being gritty. Stopping the run, stopping the pass and doing whatever we can to help this defense out."The Chiefs signed defensive ends Carlos Dunlap and Matt Dickerson during camp to provide depth. Rookie and first-round pick George Karlaftis also adds an additional pass rusher to the defensive line.Frank Clark and Mike Danna also add experience at defensive end, while Derrick Nnadi is a fifth-year pro at defensive tackle. Tackles Tershawn Wharton and Khalen Saunders have also gotten solid reps on the interior of the line.Starting center Creed Humphrey has taken notice of the solid competition up front."It's been very competitive these last couple of weeks," he said. "We've had some really humid, hot days. Everybody has been pretty moist out there. Just getting after it though and competing every play. So, it's been really good. You kind of see the mental toughness we have in the group and what the defensive line has in their group."Dick VermeilAs many have probably seen by now, former Chiefs coach and longtime NFL head man Dick Vermeil was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio this past Saturday.He and Andy Reid have quite a bit in common. Namely, they have both coached the Eagles and Chiefs. Vermeil coached the Eagles from 1976-1982, the Rams from '97-'99 and then the Chiefs from 2001-2005.Reid says Vermeil talked to him extensively, once Reid took over the Eagles in 1999 and again in 2013 when he got the Chiefs job.Reid says he and Vermeil talk a lot more often than that, about once a week. Reid made the trip down to Canton with his wife, Tammy, to honor a longtime friend and mentor."He talked to me about the atmosphere (in Kansas City) and...he coached me up on it," Reid said. "That's priceless. I mean, that's priceless. And he checks in all of the time."Injury reportReceiver Daurice Fountain didn't work Monday due to a groin strain. Still no Jody Forston, as he's "making progress" with a strained quad injury. Corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) and offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee) remain on the injured list. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee bruise) is also still out.Roster movesThe Chiefs signed defensive end Matt Dickerson Monday and released Shilique Calhoun to make room on the 90-man roster. On Saturday, the Chiefs signed receiver Devin Gray and released corner Deandre Baker.Gray was getting his first reps in with the team Monday. Dickerson was seen Monday morning as well, wearing jersey No. 96.The Chiefs have camp again on Tuesday and will rest Wednesday. They'll work Thursday and then travel Friday, heading to Chicago for their first preseason game against the Bears Saturday.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs have lighter training camp practice Monday, Gordon hopes to make roster

(AP) — MJ Melendez hit a three-run home run in the fifth inning and had a career-high six RBIs to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 13-5. 

The rookie Melendez blasted it an estimated 406-feet to right field which bounced into the fountains to give the Royals a 5-0 lead. 

Melendez is putting together quite the campaign after being called up on May 3. He’s hit 13 home runs on the year and has back-to-back homer games four times this season. Among rookies, he’s hit the fifth most home runs this season and is just two behind teammate Bobby Witt Jr.

The Royals next take on the White Sox in a double-header Tuesday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. The second game will begin approximately 30 minutes after game one.

(AP) — MJ Melendez hit a three-run home run in the fifth inning and had a career-high six RBIs to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 13-5. The rookie Melendez blasted it an estimated 406-feet to right field which bounced into the fountains to give the Royals a 5-0 lead. Melendez is putting together quite the campaign after being called up on May 3. He’s hit 13 home runs on the year and has back-to-back homer games four times this season. Among rookies, he’s hit the fifth most home runs this season and is just two behind teammate Bobby Witt Jr.The Royals next take on the White Sox in a double-header Tuesday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. The second game will begin approximately 30 minutes after game one.

Melendez posts 6-RBI game as Royals smash Red Sox 13-5

The Kansas City Chiefs were back at training camp practice on a warm, muggy Sunday morning, and it was somewhat forgettable day for the offense.

Whether it was misconnections on deep passes early or three consecutive false starts during team drills, it wasn’t the best of days offensively.

Yet, offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy was not discouraged and believed his players learned a lesson from it.

"I think today was a good learning lesson," Bieniemy said. "It was an outstanding practice. The defense did a heck of a job. The beauty of it is, it's training camp. You live and learn each and every day and there's a lesson you can gain from this."

The offense did eventually wake up in the latter half of Sunday's workout, particularly Mecole Hardman, who caught a couple of contested deep balls in seven-on-seven.

Daurice Fountain was also productive, as he was back on the field after hurting his finger Saturday. He seemed to have caught everything thrown his way.

On the offensive line, the Chiefs worked Geron Christian in at right tackle with the first-team offense. Up until now, it had been Andrew Wyline manning that spot, but Wylie worked with the second-team.

Bieniemy didn't elaborate too much on this change. Other than to say - execution is the main thing he and the coaching staff are looking for at every position.

"The thing I'm looking for is, when we're out there, are we all being accountable to one another," Bieniemy said. "Are we executing with great attention to details. Are we having a sense of urgency and sense of purpose in what we're doing?"

One player that continues to have a sense of purpose is rookie running back Isiah Pacheco, who's really making a strong case to be the No. 2 back behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

Reid remarked Saturday that Pacheco "runs hard every time he touches the ball." Bieniemy is also impressed with the seventh-round pick out of Rutgers, but was complimentary of all the running backs.

"He's a tough kid," he said of Pacheco. "Obviously, we have a lot of good players in that room. In time, everything will tell for itself. Right now, (Pacheco) is doing some good things. He's working his tail off, but you have a lot of other guys in there competing their tails off as well."

Some good news - no new injuries Sunday. Still no Jody Forston as he deals with a strained quad. He's been out for just over a week. Receiver Gary Jennings (concussion) and Taylor Stallworth (knee bruise) also didn’t practice.

Lucas Niang (knee) and Rashad Fenton (shoulder) remain on the injured list.

He still hasn't gotten reps with the first-team defense, but the 13-year veteran is looking strong, as Dunlap at times dominated the second-team offensive line during team drills Sunday.

Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, who has been working with the first-team D-line on the interior, says he used to train with Dunlap a few years ago. He's not surprised Dunlap has caught on so quickly.

"Since (Dunlap) has been here, he's been doing his part," Nnadi said. "He'll try and throw any bit of nuggets to anybody on the D-line. So, yes. He does bring a lot of good leadership to the D-line."

It’s officially game week, as the Chiefs can now look toward that first preseason game at Chicago this Saturday.

It is just preseason, but it’s a chance for the Chiefs to go against somebody in a different jersey.

Second-year linebacker and starter Nick Bolton probably won’t play a ton of snaps, but he just wants the defense to give it their all once the game starts.

"Whatever we have in, just executing it to the highest level we can," Bolton said. "Going down there and stopping the run early. Also just playing the pass game along with that. I just want to go in, execute at the highest level and build from the ground up."

Nnadi added the biggest key to preseason, especially for younger players, is to not overthink too much and stick to what you've learned.

"It's preseason," he said. "Just play. Do what you've been coached to do. If there's anything the coaches want you to improve on, that's a good chance to do it after (the game). Go watch the film, corrections and that's how it goes. Just trust yourself. Don't overthink it and just play."

Saturday’s game at Chicago kicks off at noon central. It’ll be carried live on Q Country 92.7 FM and KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

The Chiefs have practice on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659897441637.jpeg" alt="Receiver Corey Coleman (19) goes vertical to make a catch against Chris Lammons (29) during Chiefs' training camp practice Sunday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Receiver Corey Coleman (19) goes vertical to make a catch against Chris Lammons (29) during Chiefs' training camp practice Sunday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs were back at training camp practice on a warm, muggy Sunday morning, and it was somewhat forgettable day for the offense.Whether it was misconnections on deep passes early or three consecutive false starts during team drills, it wasn’t the best of days offensively.Yet, offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy was not discouraged and believed his players learned a lesson from it."I think today was a good learning lesson," Bieniemy said. "It was an outstanding practice. The defense did a heck of a job. The beauty of it is, it's training camp. You live and learn each and every day and there's a lesson you can gain from this."The offense did eventually wake up in the latter half of Sunday's workout, particularly Mecole Hardman, who caught a couple of contested deep balls in seven-on-seven.Daurice Fountain was also productive, as he was back on the field after hurting his finger Saturday. He seemed to have caught everything thrown his way.On the offensive line, the Chiefs worked Geron Christian in at right tackle with the first-team offense. Up until now, it had been Andrew Wyline manning that spot, but Wylie worked with the second-team.Bieniemy didn't elaborate too much on this change. Other than to say - execution is the main thing he and the coaching staff are looking for at every position."The thing I'm looking for is, when we're out there, are we all being accountable to one another," Bieniemy said. "Are we executing with great attention to details. Are we having a sense of urgency and sense of purpose in what we're doing?"One player that continues to have a sense of purpose is rookie running back Isiah Pacheco, who's really making a strong case to be the No. 2 back behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire.Reid remarked Saturday that Pacheco "runs hard every time he touches the ball." Bieniemy is also impressed with the seventh-round pick out of Rutgers, but was complimentary of all the running backs."He's a tough kid," he said of Pacheco. "Obviously, we have a lot of good players in that room. In time, everything will tell for itself. Right now, (Pacheco) is doing some good things. He's working his tail off, but you have a lot of other guys in there competing their tails off as well."Injury updateSome good news - no new injuries Sunday. Still no Jody Forston as he deals with a strained quad. He's been out for just over a week. Receiver Gary Jennings (concussion) and Taylor Stallworth (knee bruise) also didn’t practice.Lucas Niang (knee) and Rashad Fenton (shoulder) remain on the injured list.Carlos Dunlap catching onHe still hasn't gotten reps with the first-team defense, but the 13-year veteran is looking strong, as Dunlap at times dominated the second-team offensive line during team drills Sunday.Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, who has been working with the first-team D-line on the interior, says he used to train with Dunlap a few years ago. He's not surprised Dunlap has caught on so quickly."Since (Dunlap) has been here, he's been doing his part," Nnadi said. "He'll try and throw any bit of nuggets to anybody on the D-line. So, yes. He does bring a lot of good leadership to the D-line."Preseason game approachingIt’s officially game week, as the Chiefs can now look toward that first preseason game at Chicago this Saturday.It is just preseason, but it’s a chance for the Chiefs to go against somebody in a different jersey.Second-year linebacker and starter Nick Bolton probably won’t play a ton of snaps, but he just wants the defense to give it their all once the game starts."Whatever we have in, just executing it to the highest level we can," Bolton said. "Going down there and stopping the run early. Also just playing the pass game along with that. I just want to go in, execute at the highest level and build from the ground up."Nnadi added the biggest key to preseason, especially for younger players, is to not overthink too much and stick to what you've learned."It's preseason," he said. "Just play. Do what you've been coached to do. If there's anything the coaches want you to improve on, that's a good chance to do it after (the game). Go watch the film, corrections and that's how it goes. Just trust yourself. Don't overthink it and just play."Saturday’s game at Chicago kicks off at noon central. It’ll be carried live on Q Country 92.7 FM and KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.The Chiefs have practice on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday this week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659899024531.jpeg" alt="Isiah Pacheco." />
 <figcaption>Isiah Pacheco.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659899053075.jpeg" alt="Defensive players going through individual drills." />
 <figcaption>Defensive players going through individual drills.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sun Aug 07 2022 14:05:40 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Chiefs Highlights 8-7"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M42S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/thumbs/vV8xk3D1-960.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/vV8xk3D1-4TtZ4bid.mp4"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/vV8xk3D1-3PoaQByF.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Chiefs Highlights 8-7" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

A rocky day for the offense at Chiefs training camp Sunday

(AP) — Rookie Nick Pratto hit a game-ending home run in the ninth inning, giving the Kansas City Royals a 5-4 win over the Boston Red Sox. 

Pratto blasted a two-out, 3-2 changeup from Garrett Whitlock an estimated 424 feet to center field for his second career homer and first at Kauffman Stadium. 

The Royals began and ended the game with homers. MJ Melendez hit his second leadoff homer of the series, a 434-foot drive to right field for his 12th longball this season. Kyle Isbel also homered for Kansas City. Bobby Dalbec and Alex Verdugo went deep for Boston.

The Royals take on the Red Sox again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central. Coverage begins at 12:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Rookie Nick Pratto hit a game-ending home run in the ninth inning, giving the Kansas City Royals a 5-4 win over the Boston Red Sox. Pratto blasted a two-out, 3-2 changeup from Garrett Whitlock an estimated 424 feet to center field for his second career homer and first at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals began and ended the game with homers. MJ Melendez hit his second leadoff homer of the series, a 434-foot drive to right field for his 12th longball this season. Kyle Isbel also homered for Kansas City. Bobby Dalbec and Alex Verdugo went deep for Boston.The Royals take on the Red Sox again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central. Coverage begins at 12:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Pratto's 9th-inning homer gives Royals 5-4 win over Red Sox

St. Joseph felt the heat wave Saturday, especially those at Chiefs training camp.

Temperatures were already in the 80s by Saturday morning with plenty of humidity to go around. Some high level clouds and breeze provided a little relief, as the Chiefs practiced for over two hours at Missouri Western.

Head coach Andy Reid thought the team handled the elements well.

"Little more heat again today," Reid said. "The guys battled through it. We had a day off (Friday). So, they freshened up and came out here and worked their tail off. Great competition between both sides and I appreciated that as the head coach."

After a shorter 10-10-10 practice Thursday, and a day off Friday, the Chiefs had a lengthier session Saturday with lots of install, one-on-one drills, special teams, two-minute drills, 9-on-7, 7-on-7 and full team 11-on-11.

Injury wise, tight end Jody Forston (quad) and receiver Gary Jennings (concussion) did not practice Saturday. Forston has been out for a week, but Reid says he's "progressing."

Receiver Daurice Fountain left practice with a finger injury and will be X-rayed. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth did not practice Saturday due to a knee bruise.&nbsp;

Right tackle Lucas Niang (knee) and corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) are still on the injured list.

Saturday was a good day for rookie corners Trent McDuffie and Joshua Williams, who each had a handful of pass deflections against top receiver Saturday. Reid, when asked about McDuffie described him as "smart, strong and usually in position to make things happen."

Meanwhile, safety and fourth-year pro Juan Thornhill has emerged as a leader in the defensive backfield this camp, especially with the absence of Tyrann Mathieu.

Thornhill says not a lot has changed in the way he goes about his business on the field.

"Just being more vocal to the guys," Thornhill said. "Guys come to me to ask questions and they look to me to give them the right answer if they don't have the right answer. So, that's the only thing I've been doing (different) is trying to be a leader, lead by example and if the (young players) have any questions, they can just ask me."

After tearing his ACL in his left knee toward the end of 2019 and not being 100% in 2020, Thornhill says he's feeling his best now, and had said during OTAs that he felt like he could have an all-pro type of season.

"The knee is healthier," he said. "I have more mental clarity. I feel better all around. I just feel like I'm back to myself and I'm capable of having an all-pro season."

It's become apparent by now that the top running back job is once again Clyde Edwards-Helaire's to lose. However, the competition for the No. 2 back has been more interesting.

Rookie Isiah Pacheco has won a lot of praise, but Jerick McKinnon is making a case, as is Ronald Jones. Heck, even Derrick Gore got some reps with the first-team offense Saturday.

"I like the depth at running back," Reid said. "I like it. I'm curious to see those guys compete in games. We know a couple of them, because they've been here, and we're learning about the other two (Jones, Pacheco). It looks like a good group."

In the post Tyreek Hill era, Chiefs fans have been getting acquainted with new faces at wide receiver, like Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and rookie Skyy Moore.

One face that is familiar from last year is fourth-year pro Mecole Hardman, who was third on the team last season with 693 receiving yards and 59 catches.

Hardman says Patrick Mahomes has done a nice job leading and bringing these receivers together.

"Pat's a leader," he said. "He's going to lead us and we're going to look to him to lead. I think he does a good job of that - putting a lot of pressure on his shoulders. So, he's getting us together and doing what he needs to do to be a leader. Can't ask anything more out of him."

&nbsp;The Chiefs practice again Sunday, Monday and Tuesday before the next day off Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659814414611.jpeg" alt="Receiver Skyy Moore (24) catches a pass during Saturday's training camp practice. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Receiver Skyy Moore (24) catches a pass during Saturday's training camp practice. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph felt the heat wave Saturday, especially those at Chiefs training camp.Temperatures were already in the 80s by Saturday morning with plenty of humidity to go around. Some high level clouds and breeze provided a little relief, as the Chiefs practiced for over two hours at Missouri Western.Head coach Andy Reid thought the team handled the elements well."Little more heat again today," Reid said. "The guys battled through it. We had a day off (Friday). So, they freshened up and came out here and worked their tail off. Great competition between both sides and I appreciated that as the head coach."After a shorter 10-10-10 practice Thursday, and a day off Friday, the Chiefs had a lengthier session Saturday with lots of install, one-on-one drills, special teams, two-minute drills, 9-on-7, 7-on-7 and full team 11-on-11.Injury wise, tight end Jody Forston (quad) and receiver Gary Jennings (concussion) did not practice Saturday. Forston has been out for a week, but Reid says he's "progressing."Receiver Daurice Fountain left practice with a finger injury and will be X-rayed. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth did not practice Saturday due to a knee bruise.&nbsp;Right tackle Lucas Niang (knee) and corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) are still on the injured list.Young talent in the secondarySaturday was a good day for rookie corners Trent McDuffie and Joshua Williams, who each had a handful of pass deflections against top receiver Saturday. Reid, when asked about McDuffie described him as "smart, strong and usually in position to make things happen."Meanwhile, safety and fourth-year pro Juan Thornhill has emerged as a leader in the defensive backfield this camp, especially with the absence of Tyrann Mathieu.Thornhill says not a lot has changed in the way he goes about his business on the field."Just being more vocal to the guys," Thornhill said. "Guys come to me to ask questions and they look to me to give them the right answer if they don't have the right answer. So, that's the only thing I've been doing (different) is trying to be a leader, lead by example and if the (young players) have any questions, they can just ask me."After tearing his ACL in his left knee toward the end of 2019 and not being 100% in 2020, Thornhill says he's feeling his best now, and had said during OTAs that he felt like he could have an all-pro type of season."The knee is healthier," he said. "I have more mental clarity. I feel better all around. I just feel like I'm back to myself and I'm capable of having an all-pro season."Running back depthIt's become apparent by now that the top running back job is once again Clyde Edwards-Helaire's to lose. However, the competition for the No. 2 back has been more interesting.Rookie Isiah Pacheco has won a lot of praise, but Jerick McKinnon is making a case, as is Ronald Jones. Heck, even Derrick Gore got some reps with the first-team offense Saturday."I like the depth at running back," Reid said. "I like it. I'm curious to see those guys compete in games. We know a couple of them, because they've been here, and we're learning about the other two (Jones, Pacheco). It looks like a good group."Receivers coming togetherIn the post Tyreek Hill era, Chiefs fans have been getting acquainted with new faces at wide receiver, like Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and rookie Skyy Moore.One face that is familiar from last year is fourth-year pro Mecole Hardman, who was third on the team last season with 693 receiving yards and 59 catches.Hardman says Patrick Mahomes has done a nice job leading and bringing these receivers together."Pat's a leader," he said. "He's going to lead us and we're going to look to him to lead. I think he does a good job of that - putting a lot of pressure on his shoulders. So, he's getting us together and doing what he needs to do to be a leader. Can't ask anything more out of him."&nbsp;The Chiefs practice again Sunday, Monday and Tuesday before the next day off Wednesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659814556805.jpeg" alt="Willie Gay (50) waves to fans while a number of players come down to practice behind him." />
 <figcaption>Willie Gay (50) waves to fans while a number of players come down to practice behind him.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sat Aug 06 2022 14:20:51 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Camp Highlights 8-6"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H1M8S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/k23xuwdK-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/k23xuwdK-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/k23xuwdK-3PoaQByF.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Camp Highlights 8-6" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs complete long, hot practice Saturday after day off Friday

(AP) — Xander Bogaerts had four hits, Alex Verdugo doubled twice and the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-4. 

Verdugo had three hits as Boston evened the four-game series at a win apiece. Josh Winckowski allowed one run on five hits over five innings for the Red Sox. Zack Greinke allowed four runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings for Kansas City. 

The Red Sox got on the board in the second when ex-Royal Eric Hosmer pulled a double down the right-field line, scoring Verdugo. The Red Sox got on the board in the second when ex-Royal Eric Hosmer pulled a double down the right-field line, scoring Verdugo.

The Royals take on the Red Sox again Saturday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Xander Bogaerts had four hits, Alex Verdugo doubled twice and the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-4. Verdugo had three hits as Boston evened the four-game series at a win apiece. Josh Winckowski allowed one run on five hits over five innings for the Red Sox. Zack Greinke allowed four runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings for Kansas City. The Red Sox got on the board in the second when ex-Royal Eric Hosmer pulled a double down the right-field line, scoring Verdugo. The Red Sox got on the board in the second when ex-Royal Eric Hosmer pulled a double down the right-field line, scoring Verdugo.The Royals take on the Red Sox again Saturday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Bogaerts has 4 hits, Red Sox beat Royals 7-4

Mitch Holthus is entering his 29th year as radio voice of the Kansas City Chiefs.

He's experienced the highs and lows of the modern era in Chiefs football. He went to training camp for 16 years in River Falls, Wisconsin, the one training camp in Kansas City in 2020 and now for the 12th time, he's watching the team come into form on the Mosaic Training Fields at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.

"Every year seems like the first year," Holthus told KFEQ Radio. "I know that sounds trite or corny, but truthfully, it's that feeling. I feel like I'm a rookie every year. That's what I tell the team. Your stomach churns, you get nervous and every day is just awesome."

Holthus has had a front row seat to what's surely been the best 10-year stretch in franchise history. Six straight AFC West championships. Nine straight winning seasons. Eight playoff berths since 2013. Four straight AFC Championship games at Arrowhead Stadium. The first Super Bowl win 50 years. The list goes on.

Yet, heading into 2022, despite all of this recent success and a star-studded roster, Holthus believes this team has something to prove, even though they've proven themselves time and again.

"This is a team that has very unique focus," he said. "They're hyperfocused, starting with their biggest stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Truthfully, there's a chip on these guys' shoulder."

The 2021 season left a sour taste. Whether it was the 3-4 start, or blowing a 21-3 lead to Cincinnati in the AFC title game. The Tyreek Hill trade in March gave doubters some fuel as well. Holthus believes all of those factors combined gave this team a unique swagger in the offseason.

"They've come in here a little ticked off," he noted.&nbsp; "I saw it in minicamp, I saw it in OTAs and I've seen it so far here in St. Joe."

Hill is a franchise changing player, but the Chiefs picked up veteran receivers Juju Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling in free agency. Plus, rookie receiver Skyy Moore has been a breakout star in camp. As has rookie running back Isiah Pacheco.

You also look at running back Ronald Jones and safety Justin Reid - two veterans picked up in free agency that could have a big impact on how the Chiefs do.

"To add that with what's already here and the new rookies...somebody pick them fourth in the division, but do so at your own peril."

This marks the last year that Chiefs training camp is required to be in St. Joseph, according to the current agreement. There are two more optional years after this, but Missouri Western and Chiefs leadership will evaluate the contract once camp is over.

With only about six or seven teams left in the NFL that stil travel outside of their home city for camp, Holthus is hopeful the Chiefs will keep coming back to Missouri Western.

"They've been phenomenal," Holthus said of the University. "Mosaic (Life Care) has been phenomenal. The merchants, people like HyVee, have been phenomenal. It's a great camp. People say you're going away for camp. We're only going 50 minutes away. It's not like we're in Wisconsin."

"We've had 11 camps in St. Joe and have been to the playoffs in eight of those 11 years. I don't think it's a coincidence that the most successful nine years in Chiefs history, a lot of it is Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but this is where those seasons begin - right here on this campus and right here in this city."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659726189648.jpeg" alt="Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus addresses the crowd at the Red Rally in St. Joseph on July 29. Photo by Matt Pike." />
 <figcaption>Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus addresses the crowd at the Red Rally in St. Joseph on July 29. Photo by Matt Pike.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMitch Holthus is entering his 29th year as radio voice of the Kansas City Chiefs.He's experienced the highs and lows of the modern era in Chiefs football. He went to training camp for 16 years in River Falls, Wisconsin, the one training camp in Kansas City in 2020 and now for the 12th time, he's watching the team come into form on the Mosaic Training Fields at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph."Every year seems like the first year," Holthus told KFEQ Radio. "I know that sounds trite or corny, but truthfully, it's that feeling. I feel like I'm a rookie every year. That's what I tell the team. Your stomach churns, you get nervous and every day is just awesome."Holthus has had a front row seat to what's surely been the best 10-year stretch in franchise history. Six straight AFC West championships. Nine straight winning seasons. Eight playoff berths since 2013. Four straight AFC Championship games at Arrowhead Stadium. The first Super Bowl win 50 years. The list goes on.Yet, heading into 2022, despite all of this recent success and a star-studded roster, Holthus believes this team has something to prove, even though they've proven themselves time and again."This is a team that has very unique focus," he said. "They're hyperfocused, starting with their biggest stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Truthfully, there's a chip on these guys' shoulder."The 2021 season left a sour taste. Whether it was the 3-4 start, or blowing a 21-3 lead to Cincinnati in the AFC title game. The Tyreek Hill trade in March gave doubters some fuel as well. Holthus believes all of those factors combined gave this team a unique swagger in the offseason."They've come in here a little ticked off," he noted.&nbsp; "I saw it in minicamp, I saw it in OTAs and I've seen it so far here in St. Joe."Hill is a franchise changing player, but the Chiefs picked up veteran receivers Juju Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling in free agency. Plus, rookie receiver Skyy Moore has been a breakout star in camp. As has rookie running back Isiah Pacheco.You also look at running back Ronald Jones and safety Justin Reid - two veterans picked up in free agency that could have a big impact on how the Chiefs do."To add that with what's already here and the new rookies...somebody pick them fourth in the division, but do so at your own peril."This marks the last year that Chiefs training camp is required to be in St. Joseph, according to the current agreement. There are two more optional years after this, but Missouri Western and Chiefs leadership will evaluate the contract once camp is over.With only about six or seven teams left in the NFL that stil travel outside of their home city for camp, Holthus is hopeful the Chiefs will keep coming back to Missouri Western."They've been phenomenal," Holthus said of the University. "Mosaic (Life Care) has been phenomenal. The merchants, people like HyVee, have been phenomenal. It's a great camp. People say you're going away for camp. We're only going 50 minutes away. It's not like we're in Wisconsin.""We've had 11 camps in St. Joe and have been to the playoffs in eight of those 11 years. I don't think it's a coincidence that the most successful nine years in Chiefs history, a lot of it is Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but this is where those seasons begin - right here on this campus and right here in this city."As for a season prediction? Holthus doesn't put out a specific number of wins and losses. Though, he's confident a Super Bowl contender is being molded yet again. Even if others on the outside don't feel that way anymore."This is a refocused, recharged, rebooted team," he said. "There's a lot of talent and the coaching is superb. It's crazy that a team that is this successful is actually, in a way, going to sneak up on people. But, that's the way I feel."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Mitch-Holthus-gives-his-thoughts-on-training-camp--2022-season-e1m59f7" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Sports