By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4cA1eC0SlGXNbgDjQHgen8?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– One of the greatest players in school history will return to lead the Wildcats on the sidelines, as Collin Klein has been named the next head football coach at Kansas State, athletics director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;announced Thursday.

A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State.

Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said.

"Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved.

As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football.

Welcome home, Collin, Shalin, Beric, Rhett, Trek and Briar."

Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater.

He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said.

"Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward.

This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!

"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach.

He helped guide Kansas State to a 19-8 mark and a Big 12 Championship during his two-year run as offensive coordinator.His first full season as K-State offensive coordinator in 2022 was a success as he led an offense that ranked in the top 10 in school history in 11 categories, including ranking second in offensive yards (5,863) and plays (958), fourth in rushing yards (2,916) and fifth in yards per game (418.8).

The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game).

Kansas State produced 445.2 total yards per game in 2023 to rank second in school history.In Klein's offense, running back Deuce Vaughn became the second player in school history to twice earn Consensus All-America honors, while Cooper Beebe became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn Consensus All-America honors.

Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018.

He earned his first full-time coaching position tutoring the quarterbacks at Northern Iowa in 2016, which was just a year hiatus from Manhattan as he worked as an assistant director of recruiting and defensive quality control coach for the Wildcats in 2014 and an offensive graduate assistant in 2015.

The 2012 Johnny Unitas Award winner, Klein finished his K-State career ranking in the school's top 10 in 34 different game, season and career record categories. He was the first quarterback from a Power 5 school since 1998 to rush for at least 20 touchdowns and pass for 10 scores in consecutive seasons by doing so in 2011 and 2012.

Klein led the Wildcats to a combined 21-5 record as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012, which culminated with a No. 1 national ranking, Big 12 Championship and Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012.

Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday.

This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272).

Texas A&amp;M has hit the 400-yard mark in total offense 10 times in 12 games thus far in 2025.A 2025 Broyles Award Semifinalist, Klein has guided Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed to top-15 individual marks this season in passing yards per completion (7th; 14.03), points responsible for (13th; 186) and passing touchdowns (14th; 25).

In his first season at Texas A&amp;M in 2024, Klein helped guide the Aggies to a 5-0 start in SEC play, marking the program's best start in SEC action and its best conference start since 1998. Texas A&amp;M boasted the No. 2 rushing offense in the SEC, ranking 26th nationally (195.5 yards per game), and the offensive line ranked 10th in the country by allowing just 51.0 tackles for loss on the year.

Klein obtained his undergraduate degree from K-State in December 2011 in business financial services and controllership, while he received his master's degree in academic advising in December 2019. He is married to the former Shalin Spani, a former Wildcat women's basketball player. The couple has three sons, Beric, Rhett and Trek, and one daughter, Briar.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Believe it, Coach <a href="https://t.co/MpF2E7zSOc">pic.twitter.com/MpF2E7zSOc</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1997000680867836339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Back like he never left <a href="https://t.co/cB2e91xezJ">pic.twitter.com/cB2e91xezJ</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1996990122017825082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A message from <a href="https://twitter.com/CK_KleinCollin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CK_KleinCollin</a> <a href="https://t.co/ef3FwC2pES">pic.twitter.com/ef3FwC2pES</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1996779764246630534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– One of the greatest players in school history will return to lead the Wildcats on the sidelines, as Collin Klein has been named the next head football coach at Kansas State, athletics director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;announced Thursday.A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State.Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said."Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved.As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football.Welcome home, Collin, Shalin, Beric, Rhett, Trek and Briar."Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater.He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said."Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward.This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach.He helped guide Kansas State to a 19-8 mark and a Big 12 Championship during his two-year run as offensive coordinator.His first full season as K-State offensive coordinator in 2022 was a success as he led an offense that ranked in the top 10 in school history in 11 categories, including ranking second in offensive yards (5,863) and plays (958), fourth in rushing yards (2,916) and fifth in yards per game (418.8).The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game).Kansas State produced 445.2 total yards per game in 2023 to rank second in school history.In Klein's offense, running back Deuce Vaughn became the second player in school history to twice earn Consensus All-America honors, while Cooper Beebe became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn Consensus All-America honors.Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018.He earned his first full-time coaching position tutoring the quarterbacks at Northern Iowa in 2016, which was just a year hiatus from Manhattan as he worked as an assistant director of recruiting and defensive quality control coach for the Wildcats in 2014 and an offensive graduate assistant in 2015.The 2012 Johnny Unitas Award winner, Klein finished his K-State career ranking in the school's top 10 in 34 different game, season and career record categories. He was the first quarterback from a Power 5 school since 1998 to rush for at least 20 touchdowns and pass for 10 scores in consecutive seasons by doing so in 2011 and 2012.Klein led the Wildcats to a combined 21-5 record as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012, which culminated with a No. 1 national ranking, Big 12 Championship and Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012.Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday.This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272).Texas A&amp;M has hit the 400-yard mark in total offense 10 times in 12 games thus far in 2025.A 2025 Broyles Award Semifinalist, Klein has guided Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed to top-15 individual marks this season in passing yards per completion (7th; 14.03), points responsible for (13th; 186) and passing touchdowns (14th; 25).In his first season at Texas A&amp;M in 2024, Klein helped guide the Aggies to a 5-0 start in SEC play, marking the program's best start in SEC action and its best conference start since 1998. Texas A&amp;M boasted the No. 2 rushing offense in the SEC, ranking 26th nationally (195.5 yards per game), and the offensive line ranked 10th in the country by allowing just 51.0 tackles for loss on the year.Klein obtained his undergraduate degree from K-State in December 2011 in business financial services and controllership, while he received his master's degree in academic advising in December 2019. He is married to the former Shalin Spani, a former Wildcat women's basketball player. The couple has three sons, Beric, Rhett and Trek, and one daughter, Briar.

Back like he never left: Colin Klein and family arrive in Manhattan 

A record setter at Bishop LeBlond, Rilyn Conard will continue her volleyball career just over an hour and a half away with the Ottawa Braves.  

Conard says she's excited to be joining the Ottawa program 

"Coach Ashan (Jordan) is great, I love his program, seems like a little rebuilding process right now,” Conard tells reporters. 

Conard says she's ready to go in and contribute to the program however she can 

"Help them hopefully go get a conference championship, so I’m super excited,” Conard says. 

Conard says what she will take away most from her time at LeBlond is all the memories 

"The teammates and Coach Huss, they all mean so much to me, and I really wouldn’t be here without them,” Conard explains.  “They just make me fall more in love with the game every day, and they’ve been a huge part of all of this success, and I’m proud to have gone to LeBlond.” 

Now onto the next level, Conard says it means so much because it is a dream come true 

"This has been a dream of mine for a while and a goal, and it feels great to finally accomplish that goal and go ahead and play at the next level, it’s huge,” Conard says. 

Conard finished her career with 1,361 kills.  She was part of two state runs for the Golden Eagles that ended with a third-place finish and a second-place finish.  

Head Coach Kim Huss says Conard's contributions on the volleyball court are a testament to the program, and her volleyball skills being an outside hitter 

"Rilyn’s a hard worker, she’s a competitor, she watches a lot of film to get ready for competitors, and she’s been a good leader for our program,” Huss says. 

Huss says what the Braves are getting for their team out of Conard is a fiery competitor 

"You’re getting a fiery competitor who's going to work hard, who's going to challenge everyone around her to be better and better,” Huss says.  “And I think that she has some goals and she’s looking forward to showing what she can on a different stage.” 

Conard was also named an All-State player and All-Conference player three times in her high school career.  

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764923891371.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond volleyball standout Rilyn Conard, who set multiple records in her time with the Golden Eagles, signs her letter of intent to play volleyball at Ottawa University/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond volleyball standout Rilyn Conard, who set multiple records in her time with the Golden Eagles, signs her letter of intent to play volleyball at Ottawa University/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA record setter at Bishop LeBlond, Rilyn Conard will continue her volleyball career just over an hour and a half away with the Ottawa Braves. Conard says she's excited to be joining the Ottawa program "Coach Ashan (Jordan) is great, I love his program, seems like a little rebuilding process right now,” Conard tells reporters. Conard says she's ready to go in and contribute to the program however she can "Help them hopefully go get a conference championship, so I’m super excited,” Conard says. Conard says what she will take away most from her time at LeBlond is all the memories "The teammates and Coach Huss, they all mean so much to me, and I really wouldn’t be here without them,” Conard explains. “They just make me fall more in love with the game every day, and they’ve been a huge part of all of this success, and I’m proud to have gone to LeBlond.” Now onto the next level, Conard says it means so much because it is a dream come true "This has been a dream of mine for a while and a goal, and it feels great to finally accomplish that goal and go ahead and play at the next level, it’s huge,” Conard says. Conard finished her career with 1,361 kills. She was part of two state runs for the Golden Eagles that ended with a third-place finish and a second-place finish. Head Coach Kim Huss says Conard's contributions on the volleyball court are a testament to the program, and her volleyball skills being an outside hitter "Rilyn’s a hard worker, she’s a competitor, she watches a lot of film to get ready for competitors, and she’s been a good leader for our program,” Huss says. Huss says what the Braves are getting for their team out of Conard is a fiery competitor "You’re getting a fiery competitor who's going to work hard, who's going to challenge everyone around her to be better and better,” Huss says. “And I think that she has some goals and she’s looking forward to showing what she can on a different stage.” Conard was also named an All-State player and All-Conference player three times in her high school career. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bishop LeBlond standout Rilyn Conard signs with Ottawa volleyball

Redemption.  That's a word to highlight Worth County's 56-46 win over the Rock Port Blue Jays in the 8-man championship game at Spratt Stadium. 

The Tigers redeemed not only a week one loss to the Blue Jays, but also redeemed for a group of six seniors and 11 juniors, a heartreaking loss in the 2023 championship game. 

Head Coach Jon Adwell credits his group for being gritty, and says it feels good to win this after being so close the last four years

"They've been right on the cusp of being able to break through to get this, and they want it, they want it and they want it bad, and it's good to be on the other side isn't it Bo?" Adwell says during the postgame press conference, joking with Junior tight end Bo Collins.&nbsp;

Senior Lucas Frisch, who was a sophomore the last time Worth County competed for a championship, says winning this means everything

"To work since fourth grade, work your butt off, try your hardest, and finally get it done especially on your last game, it means a lot," Frisch says.

Collins, a freshman on that same team. shared the sentiment after the Tigers lost the championship on costly mistakes, which Collins says was heartbreaking for him and the team.

"I think that was represented, and man I think you've seen how hard we worked after having lost that state game, and we got another chance and we got it done this time," Collins says.

The state championship is the first since 2017 for Worth County and the eighth in program history, tying them for the most in 8-man football with Mound City.

The game started off the weekend of state championships in St. Joseph at Spratt Stadium with a bang.&nbsp; After a turnover on downs to start the game by Worth County, Rock Port scored the opening touchdown on a one yard run by Brock Holmes.&nbsp; The Tigers answered immediately though, Frisch rushing for a 14 yard touchdown, and quarterback Hayden Sanders converting the two point try to put Worth County ahead 8-6.&nbsp;

The Tigers held that lead into the second quarter, but the Blue Jays took the lead back early in the frame as Jack Meyerkorth rushed for an eight yard score.&nbsp; Worth County answered with a drive that took nearly five minutes, Sanders connecting with Caleb New for a touchdown, but failing the two point conversion.&nbsp; It looked like the Tigers would take a lead into halftime, but Meyerkorth hauled in a pass on the right sideline, cut all the way across the field, and with no time remaining scored, with Holmes converting the two point try, for a 20-14 Rock Port lead at halftime.

Then came a wild third quarter.&nbsp; After a miskick, the Blue Jays started the second half in Worth County territory.&nbsp; Rock Port took a two possession lead as Meyerkorth leaped over his defender to bring in a 29 yard touchdown, Holmes again converting the two point try.&nbsp; One play after the ensuing kickoff, Jude Archer made it a one possession game running for a 59 yard touchdown for Worth Countym converting the two point pass to New.&nbsp; 

An apparent missed fumble, turned into a 42 yard touchdown run from Holmes for Rock Port, the two point conversion failed.&nbsp; But again, one play after the kickoff, Archer broke free through the middle, this time for a 53 yard touchdown run, this time Sanders pass to New on the two point try falling incomplete.&nbsp; Holmes found the endzone one more time in the quarter, on a three yard run, again failing the two point try, again the score was answered by the Tigers, Frisch scoring on a five yard run.&nbsp; The Tigers took the lead to end the quarter, Brayden Stevens scoring in one play on a 16 yard run, with the two point pass to Collins good, for a 42-40 lead.&nbsp;

After the 48 point third quarter, the fourth was a little more tame, starting first with Worth County extending the lead to two possessions for the first time in their favor, a two yard run by Archer, converting the two point pass to Frisch.&nbsp; The Blue Jays cut back into the lead to stay close Holmes scoring on an 18 yard run, the two point pass good to Jadyn Geib.&nbsp; Late in the quarter though, after a 10 play drive that used just over four minutes, Sanders threw a touchdown to New for the 56-46 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At the end of the game, with Rock Port needing to score to stay in striking distance, the kickoff by Frisch would be recovered by Archer at the Rock Port 20 yard line.&nbsp; Sanders knelt out the remaining time and the Tigers celebrated with big hugs from Adwell.

For Worth County, Sanders was an efficient 6 of 6 passing for 107 yards with two touchdowns.&nbsp; Archer ran 13 times for 152 yards with three scores, while Sanders ran 17 times for 56 yards. New had three catches for 40 yards and the two touchdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On the other side for Rock Port, Westyn Amthor was 8 of 10 for 120 yards with two touchdowns.&nbsp; Holmes ran 36 times for 165 yards with four touchdowns, bringing his season total to 2,943 yards with 61 touchdowns.&nbsp; Meyerkorth hauled in every pass, with nine catches for 124 yards and two scores.

Both teams finish the season with a 13-1 record.&nbsp; Rock Port graduates four seniors, while Worth County graduates six.&nbsp; They meet again in week one of the 2026 season at Rock Port on August 28th.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764918496147.jpeg" alt="Seniors Brayden Stevens (20),&nbsp;Sawyer Thurman (11),&nbsp;Lucas Frisch (21), and&nbsp;Brayden Murphy celebrate after Worth County defeated Rock Port 56-46 for the Tigers first state title since 2017/ Photo courtesy of Clifton Grooms" />
 <figcaption>Seniors Brayden Stevens (20),&nbsp;Sawyer Thurman (11),&nbsp;Lucas Frisch (21), and&nbsp;Brayden Murphy celebrate after Worth County defeated Rock Port 56-46 for the Tigers first state title since 2017/ Photo courtesy of Clifton Grooms</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKERedemption. That's a word to highlight Worth County's 56-46 win over the Rock Port Blue Jays in the 8-man championship game at Spratt Stadium. The Tigers redeemed not only a week one loss to the Blue Jays, but also redeemed for a group of six seniors and 11 juniors, a heartreaking loss in the 2023 championship game. Head Coach Jon Adwell credits his group for being gritty, and says it feels good to win this after being so close the last four years"They've been right on the cusp of being able to break through to get this, and they want it, they want it and they want it bad, and it's good to be on the other side isn't it Bo?" Adwell says during the postgame press conference, joking with Junior tight end Bo Collins.&nbsp;"That's right," Collins adds.Senior Lucas Frisch, who was a sophomore the last time Worth County competed for a championship, says winning this means everything"To work since fourth grade, work your butt off, try your hardest, and finally get it done especially on your last game, it means a lot," Frisch says.Collins, a freshman on that same team. shared the sentiment after the Tigers lost the championship on costly mistakes, which Collins says was heartbreaking for him and the team."I think that was represented, and man I think you've seen how hard we worked after having lost that state game, and we got another chance and we got it done this time," Collins says.The state championship is the first since 2017 for Worth County and the eighth in program history, tying them for the most in 8-man football with Mound City.The game started off the weekend of state championships in St. Joseph at Spratt Stadium with a bang.&nbsp; After a turnover on downs to start the game by Worth County, Rock Port scored the opening touchdown on a one yard run by Brock Holmes.&nbsp; The Tigers answered immediately though, Frisch rushing for a 14 yard touchdown, and quarterback Hayden Sanders converting the two point try to put Worth County ahead 8-6.&nbsp;The Tigers held that lead into the second quarter, but the Blue Jays took the lead back early in the frame as Jack Meyerkorth rushed for an eight yard score.&nbsp; Worth County answered with a drive that took nearly five minutes, Sanders connecting with Caleb New for a touchdown, but failing the two point conversion.&nbsp; It looked like the Tigers would take a lead into halftime, but Meyerkorth hauled in a pass on the right sideline, cut all the way across the field, and with no time remaining scored, with Holmes converting the two point try, for a 20-14 Rock Port lead at halftime.Then came a wild third quarter.&nbsp; After a miskick, the Blue Jays started the second half in Worth County territory.&nbsp; Rock Port took a two possession lead as Meyerkorth leaped over his defender to bring in a 29 yard touchdown, Holmes again converting the two point try.&nbsp; One play after the ensuing kickoff, Jude Archer made it a one possession game running for a 59 yard touchdown for Worth Countym converting the two point pass to New.&nbsp; An apparent missed fumble, turned into a 42 yard touchdown run from Holmes for Rock Port, the two point conversion failed.&nbsp; But again, one play after the kickoff, Archer broke free through the middle, this time for a 53 yard touchdown run, this time Sanders pass to New on the two point try falling incomplete.&nbsp; Holmes found the endzone one more time in the quarter, on a three yard run, again failing the two point try, again the score was answered by the Tigers, Frisch scoring on a five yard run.&nbsp; The Tigers took the lead to end the quarter, Brayden Stevens scoring in one play on a 16 yard run, with the two point pass to Collins good, for a 42-40 lead.&nbsp;After the 48 point third quarter, the fourth was a little more tame, starting first with Worth County extending the lead to two possessions for the first time in their favor, a two yard run by Archer, converting the two point pass to Frisch.&nbsp; The Blue Jays cut back into the lead to stay close Holmes scoring on an 18 yard run, the two point pass good to Jadyn Geib.&nbsp; Late in the quarter though, after a 10 play drive that used just over four minutes, Sanders threw a touchdown to New for the 56-46 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the end of the game, with Rock Port needing to score to stay in striking distance, the kickoff by Frisch would be recovered by Archer at the Rock Port 20 yard line.&nbsp; Sanders knelt out the remaining time and the Tigers celebrated with big hugs from Adwell.For Worth County, Sanders was an efficient 6 of 6 passing for 107 yards with two touchdowns.&nbsp; Archer ran 13 times for 152 yards with three scores, while Sanders ran 17 times for 56 yards. New had three catches for 40 yards and the two touchdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the other side for Rock Port, Westyn Amthor was 8 of 10 for 120 yards with two touchdowns.&nbsp; Holmes ran 36 times for 165 yards with four touchdowns, bringing his season total to 2,943 yards with 61 touchdowns.&nbsp; Meyerkorth hauled in every pass, with nine catches for 124 yards and two scores.Both teams finish the season with a 13-1 record.&nbsp; Rock Port graduates four seniors, while Worth County graduates six.&nbsp; They meet again in week one of the 2026 season at Rock Port on August 28th.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Worth County gets redemption to bring home first state title since 2017

A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State. 

Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said. 

"Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved. 

As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football. 

Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater. 

He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said. 

"Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward.

"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach. 

The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game). 

Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018. 

Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday. 

This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272). 

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Got our guy. <a href="https://t.co/noyv4A8z7B">pic.twitter.com/noyv4A8z7B</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1996758932828967155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– One of the greatest players in school history will return to lead the Wildcats on the sidelines, as Collin Klein has been named the next head football coach at Kansas State, athletics director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;announced Thursday.A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State. Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said. "Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved. As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football. Welcome home, Collin, Shalin, Beric, Rhett, Trek and Briar."Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater. He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said. "Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward. This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach. He helped guide Kansas State to a 19-8 mark and a Big 12 Championship during his two-year run as offensive coordinator.His first full season as K-State offensive coordinator in 2022 was a success as he led an offense that ranked in the top 10 in school history in 11 categories, including ranking second in offensive yards (5,863) and plays (958), fourth in rushing yards (2,916) and fifth in yards per game (418.8).The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game). Kansas State produced 445.2 total yards per game in 2023 to rank second in school history.In Klein's offense, running back Deuce Vaughn became the second player in school history to twice earn Consensus All-America honors, while Cooper Beebe became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn Consensus All-America honors.Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018. He earned his first full-time coaching position tutoring the quarterbacks at Northern Iowa in 2016, which was just a year hiatus from Manhattan as he worked as an assistant director of recruiting and defensive quality control coach for the Wildcats in 2014 and an offensive graduate assistant in 2015.The 2012 Johnny Unitas Award winner, Klein finished his K-State career ranking in the school's top 10 in 34 different game, season and career record categories. He was the first quarterback from a Power 5 school since 1998 to rush for at least 20 touchdowns and pass for 10 scores in consecutive seasons by doing so in 2011 and 2012.Klein led the Wildcats to a combined 21-5 record as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012, which culminated with a No. 1 national ranking, Big 12 Championship and Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012.Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday. This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272). Texas A&amp;M has hit the 400-yard mark in total offense 10 times in 12 games thus far in 2025.A 2025 Broyles Award Semifinalist, Klein has guided Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed to top-15 individual marks this season in passing yards per completion (7th; 14.03), points responsible for (13th; 186) and passing touchdowns (14th; 25).In his first season at Texas A&amp;M in 2024, Klein helped guide the Aggies to a 5-0 start in SEC play, marking the program's best start in SEC action and its best conference start since 1998. Texas A&amp;M boasted the No. 2 rushing offense in the SEC, ranking 26th nationally (195.5 yards per game), and the offensive line ranked 10th in the country by allowing just 51.0 tackles for loss on the year.Klein obtained his undergraduate degree from K-State in December 2011 in business financial services and controllership, while he received his master's degree in academic advising in December 2019. He is married to the former Shalin Spani, a former Wildcat women's basketball player. The couple has three sons, Beric, Rhett and Trek, and one daughter, Briar.

K-State confirms return of Colin Klein as head coach of the 'Cats

Join us live from Missouri Western State University at Spratt Memorial Stadium as the Rock Port Blue Jays take on the Worth County Tigers in an 8-man championship matchup.&nbsp;

The matchup features two premiere teams from northwest Missouri, with Rock Port coming in undefeated at 13-0, champions of the 275 Conference, and Worth County at 12-1, champions of the GRC with their only loss coming to Rock Port in week one of the regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will have the call from Spratt Stadium.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.&nbsp; Our pregame will begin at 6 pm.

By MATT PIKEJoin us live from Missouri Western State University at Spratt Memorial Stadium as the Rock Port Blue Jays take on the Worth County Tigers in an 8-man championship matchup.&nbsp;The matchup features two premiere teams from northwest Missouri, with Rock Port coming in undefeated at 13-0, champions of the 275 Conference, and Worth County at 12-1, champions of the GRC with their only loss coming to Rock Port in week one of the regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will have the call from Spratt Stadium.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.&nbsp; Our pregame will begin at 6 pm.<div><iframe src="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST" width="100%" height="400" style="border:1px solid black;">
</iframe></div>

LIVE: Rock Port takes on Worth County in 8-man High School championship

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/45uv6DhKd6uVn8VmceBGhH?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By Anthony Gorges JC/Little Apple Post

Kansas State Athletics announced on Wednesday that head football coach Chris Klieman was retiring. Klieman, who has spent seven years with the school and is 58 years old, stated that for the first time, he’s putting his family first and looks forward to spending more time with them moving forward. K-State held a press conference at the Vanier Family Football Complex on Wednesday afternoon where Klieman and Athletics Director Gene Taylor spoke about Klieman’s decision.

A full room of media and K-State staff gave Coach Klieman a round of applause as he made his way to the podium. Klieman began his press conference by thanking everyone for being there. “It just goes to show me that the good guys win,” Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman said. “Doing things the right way, doing it with class and doing it with integrity is the right way. Guys, that’s the K-State way.”

Klieman said despite it being an emotional day, “I am at peace.” He noted that colleagues, former players, and parents of current players reached out to him and congratulated him and his wife, Rhonda. Klieman stated one of the reasons he was in the business of coaching was to have that kind of impact.

Chris Klieman previously served as head coach at North Dakota State before coming to Kansas State to lead the Wildcats. He held many other coaching positions after spending more than thirty years as a coach. “I am one of the lucky ones,” Klieman said. He pointed out that he spent fifteen years at his last two stops and noted that is very rare in the coaching profession. Current Kansas State Athletic Director (AD) Gene Taylor previously served as AD at North Dakota State and was the one who hired Klieman to be a head coach at both schools. Klieman expressed his thanks and gratitude to Taylor at the press conference.

Speaking about his twelve years as a head coach (five at NDSU and seven at K-State), Klieman said, “I am damn proud of the body of work that all of us put together.” He stated that he was up for the challenge of following in the footsteps of legendary K-State coach Bill Snyder, and said, “I think we did a pretty damn good job here.” Klieman closed out the press conference by thanking everyone “for allowing the Kliemans to come into Manhattan and build something here.” As Klieman left the press conference, he and Director of Athletics Gene Taylor shared a hug.

*Highlights for Klieman at K-State include winning the 2022 Big 12 Championship, winning eight or more games for four straight years, and qualifying for a bowl game in six out of seven years. (The only year KSU did not make a bowl game was during the 2020 COVID season.)

K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor spoke after Klieman officially announced his retirement. Taylor was passionate that changes need to be made in the current era of college athletics. Taylor, a very close friend of Klieman, was very emotional when speaking to the media. “You just saw one of the greatest guys in this industry walk out of this room and retire from coaching, from the business that he loves,” Taylor said. He continued, “What really pisses me off is he is doing it because of where we are in this industry.” Taylor is referring to the new era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal, among other issues as well. “If we don’t get this thing fixed, and I am a part of that, as is every other AD in the country and conference commissioners, more really, really good guys like Chris Klieman are going to walk away from this business.”

When asked about the timeline of events and when he knew Klieman would retire, Gene Taylor said they met on Monday, where Klieman expressed he needed a few days to think about what he wanted to do. Taylor admitted he was somewhat caught off guard by the retirement talks because he thought they were meeting to discuss the bowl game and potential coaching/staffing changes.

Klieman told Taylor Wednesday morning he was going to retire, and Taylor admitted he had been emotional all day since their discussion. When asked about if Klieman would coach the bowl game, he said it is still being determined. He said he plans to meet with the players on Thursday and discuss it.

As for the rumors and speculation about a new head coach being named, Gene Taylor said at the press conference that he had not had any conversations prior to that moment. He said with the current landscape, the process will certainly move fast, but he wanted to wait and be respectful to Coach Klieman and let him announce his retirement before anything was officially done.

Lastly, Gene Taylor was very complimentary of Klieman’s seven-year run leading the Wildcats and thanked him for what he gave to the Kansas State program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764815483798.jpeg" alt="Chris Klieman officially announcing his retirement at a press conference on Wednesday in the Vanier Family Football Complex.-photo photo" />
 <figcaption>Chris Klieman officially announcing his retirement at a press conference on Wednesday in the Vanier Family Football Complex.-photo photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony Gorges JC/Little Apple PostKansas State Athletics announced on Wednesday that head football coach Chris Klieman was retiring. Klieman, who has spent seven years with the school and is 58 years old, stated that for the first time, he’s putting his family first and looks forward to spending more time with them moving forward. K-State held a press conference at the Vanier Family Football Complex on Wednesday afternoon where Klieman and Athletics Director Gene Taylor spoke about Klieman’s decision.A full room of media and K-State staff gave Coach Klieman a round of applause as he made his way to the podium. Klieman began his press conference by thanking everyone for being there. “It just goes to show me that the good guys win,” Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman said. “Doing things the right way, doing it with class and doing it with integrity is the right way. Guys, that’s the K-State way.”Klieman said despite it being an emotional day, “I am at peace.” He noted that colleagues, former players, and parents of current players reached out to him and congratulated him and his wife, Rhonda. Klieman stated one of the reasons he was in the business of coaching was to have that kind of impact.Chris Klieman previously served as head coach at North Dakota State before coming to Kansas State to lead the Wildcats. He held many other coaching positions after spending more than thirty years as a coach. “I am one of the lucky ones,” Klieman said. He pointed out that he spent fifteen years at his last two stops and noted that is very rare in the coaching profession. Current Kansas State Athletic Director (AD) Gene Taylor previously served as AD at North Dakota State and was the one who hired Klieman to be a head coach at both schools. Klieman expressed his thanks and gratitude to Taylor at the press conference.Speaking about his twelve years as a head coach (five at NDSU and seven at K-State), Klieman said, “I am damn proud of the body of work that all of us put together.” He stated that he was up for the challenge of following in the footsteps of legendary K-State coach Bill Snyder, and said, “I think we did a pretty damn good job here.” Klieman closed out the press conference by thanking everyone “for allowing the Kliemans to come into Manhattan and build something here.” As Klieman left the press conference, he and Director of Athletics Gene Taylor shared a hug.*Highlights for Klieman at K-State include winning the 2022 Big 12 Championship, winning eight or more games for four straight years, and qualifying for a bowl game in six out of seven years. (The only year KSU did not make a bowl game was during the 2020 COVID season.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764817709243.jpeg" alt="Gene Taylor speaking at Klieman's retirement press conference.-Post photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Gene Taylor speaking at Klieman's retirement press conference.-Post photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor spoke after Klieman officially announced his retirement. Taylor was passionate that changes need to be made in the current era of college athletics. Taylor, a very close friend of Klieman, was very emotional when speaking to the media. “You just saw one of the greatest guys in this industry walk out of this room and retire from coaching, from the business that he loves,” Taylor said. He continued, “What really pisses me off is he is doing it because of where we are in this industry.” Taylor is referring to the new era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal, among other issues as well. “If we don’t get this thing fixed, and I am a part of that, as is every other AD in the country and conference commissioners, more really, really good guys like Chris Klieman are going to walk away from this business.”When asked about the timeline of events and when he knew Klieman would retire, Gene Taylor said they met on Monday, where Klieman expressed he needed a few days to think about what he wanted to do. Taylor admitted he was somewhat caught off guard by the retirement talks because he thought they were meeting to discuss the bowl game and potential coaching/staffing changes.Klieman told Taylor Wednesday morning he was going to retire, and Taylor admitted he had been emotional all day since their discussion. When asked about if Klieman would coach the bowl game, he said it is still being determined. He said he plans to meet with the players on Thursday and discuss it.As for the rumors and speculation about a new head coach being named, Gene Taylor said at the press conference that he had not had any conversations prior to that moment. He said with the current landscape, the process will certainly move fast, but he wanted to wait and be respectful to Coach Klieman and let him announce his retirement before anything was officially done.Lastly, Gene Taylor was very complimentary of Klieman’s seven-year run leading the Wildcats and thanked him for what he gave to the Kansas State program.

K-State’s Chris Klieman and AD Gene Taylor discuss Klieman's decision to retire

For the first time ever, all six classes of high school football, along with 8-man, will battle for a championship in St. Joseph at Spratt Stadium on the Missouri Western State University campus. 

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esley says there will be a high level of football played this weekend, and says look no further than down the road in Platte City 

"They play in the Class 5 championship game at 7’o clock Friday night, they play Carthage another very good team, 13-0 against 12-1,” Esely says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “Their quarterback is a division one signee in Rocco Marriott.” 

Marriott originally signed with James Madison, but just last week flipped his commitment, signing with UCF in the Big 12. 

"That’s all to say very, very high-level talent that will be here in St. Joseph and at Spratt Stadium at Missouri Western this coming week,” Esely says.  “And Rocco’s story is just one of a number of student athlete’s that will compete here this week.” 

Esely says it's exciting to have teams coming from all over the state. 

"They come from anywhere as close as our 8-man teams in Rock Port and Worth County which will be a great championship game on Thursday night, to Platte County which is right down the road, to Kearney, to Lift for Life Academy which is in St. Louis, to Carthage, to Tipton, to Seneca, to Hannibal,” Esely explains.  “So, this championship really encompasses all facets, all areas of the state that will come to St. Joe the spotlight will be on here.” 

The championships had been hosted in Columbia at the home of the Missouri Tigers, Faurot Field, for the last decade, after leaving St. Louis.  

Esely, says the event will bring 14 of the best teams from across the state to Missouri Western to compete 

"I know we have a lot of people in this community who like football, that support high school football, that travel to watch high school football,” Esely says.  “Uh, you don’t have to travel anywhere to watch high school football this weekend, the best seven games are right here beginning this Thursday.” 

The football championships kickoff with the 8-man championship game tomorrow (THU) between Worth County and Rock Port. 

Kickoff is at 7pm.  We will have the game streamed on St. Joseph Post and Maryville Post.  Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will be on the call with pregame at 6pm. 

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor the first time ever, all six classes of high school football, along with 8-man, will battle for a championship in St. Joseph at Spratt Stadium on the Missouri Western State University campus. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esley says there will be a high level of football played this weekend, and says look no further than down the road in Platte City "They play in the Class 5 championship game at 7’o clock Friday night, they play Carthage another very good team, 13-0 against 12-1,” Esely says on the KFEQmunnity show. “Their quarterback is a division one signee in Rocco Marriott.” Marriott originally signed with James Madison, but just last week flipped his commitment, signing with UCF in the Big 12. "That’s all to say very, very high-level talent that will be here in St. Joseph and at Spratt Stadium at Missouri Western this coming week,” Esely says. “And Rocco’s story is just one of a number of student athlete’s that will compete here this week.” Esely says it's exciting to have teams coming from all over the state. "They come from anywhere as close as our 8-man teams in Rock Port and Worth County which will be a great championship game on Thursday night, to Platte County which is right down the road, to Kearney, to Lift for Life Academy which is in St. Louis, to Carthage, to Tipton, to Seneca, to Hannibal,” Esely explains. “So, this championship really encompasses all facets, all areas of the state that will come to St. Joe the spotlight will be on here.” The championships had been hosted in Columbia at the home of the Missouri Tigers, Faurot Field, for the last decade, after leaving St. Louis. Esely, says the event will bring 14 of the best teams from across the state to Missouri Western to compete "I know we have a lot of people in this community who like football, that support high school football, that travel to watch high school football,” Esely says. “Uh, you don’t have to travel anywhere to watch high school football this weekend, the best seven games are right here beginning this Thursday.” The football championships kickoff with the 8-man championship game tomorrow (THU) between Worth County and Rock Port. Kickoff is at 7pm. We will have the game streamed on St. Joseph Post and Maryville Post. Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will be on the call with pregame at 6pm. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph ready to host MSHSAA high school championship football

Penny Hornets Jacob Miller will continue his football career at the Division one level, signing with the Northwestern Wildcats. 

Miller says though, his decision to go to Northwestern came down more to the academics provided in Evanston 

"I’ve always been big in the classroom, so the academics is a nice part of it,” Miller tells reporters.  “And also, the winning mentality they have over there, on my visit I just kind of got to witness it first person and I just felt like it was the place for me.” 

Miller played tight end and defensive end during his career in Hamilton but will shift to left tackle for the Wildcats.   

Miller says when he received a text from Northwestern general manger Christian Sarkisian he thought he was being recruited at tight end.  Instead Sarkisian wanted him at offensive tackle. 

"I feel like I have a higher ceiling at that position, so ultimately I’m grateful for it,” Miller says. 

Through his career however, the hope is Miller can bulk up and eventually move to play tight end at Northwestern.   

Head coach Kieth Alberti says the Wildcats are getting a player on their team who is relentless in everything that he does  

"He’s always out there, he’s working his tail off in everything that we do, and you know he’s very gifted in regard to that and he’s going to work to put himself in the right position to make things happen,” Alberti explains. 

Even in just one year, after coming to Hamilton this season, Alberti says he saw growth in Miller getting to coach him  

"First practice in June we knew what Jake was, and I got to see him previously when I was down in Higginsville, but I really got to see him grown and put forth the effort and put himself in the right position to be successful and you really saw that continue to grow from week one all the way through to the end of the season,” Alberti says. 

Miller is the first Division one signee from Hamilton since Kellen Overstreet signed with Wyoming in 2014.  Miller says this means everything to him. 

"Been working hard all my life to get to this position,” Miller says 

Miller says to be considered a role model for younger kids getting an opportunity like this, is really cool 

"When I was younger I kind of looked up to those guys, so to kind of be in their shoes it’s an honor,” Miller proudly says. 

Miller helped lead the Hornets to the state title game last season, where Hamilton finished second place.   

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764804696360.jpeg" alt="Penny Hornets defensive end and tight end Jacob Miller signs with Northwestern.&nbsp; Miller will shift to offensive line with the Wildcats/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Penny Hornets defensive end and tight end Jacob Miller signs with Northwestern.&nbsp; Miller will shift to offensive line with the Wildcats/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostPenny Hornets Jacob Miller will continue his football career at the Division one level, signing with the Northwestern Wildcats. Miller says though, his decision to go to Northwestern came down more to the academics provided in Evanston "I’ve always been big in the classroom, so the academics is a nice part of it,” Miller tells reporters. “And also, the winning mentality they have over there, on my visit I just kind of got to witness it first person and I just felt like it was the place for me.” Miller played tight end and defensive end during his career in Hamilton but will shift to left tackle for the Wildcats. Miller says when he received a text from Northwestern general manger Christian Sarkisian he thought he was being recruited at tight end. Instead Sarkisian wanted him at offensive tackle. "I feel like I have a higher ceiling at that position, so ultimately I’m grateful for it,” Miller says. Through his career however, the hope is Miller can bulk up and eventually move to play tight end at Northwestern. Head coach Kieth Alberti says the Wildcats are getting a player on their team who is relentless in everything that he does "He’s always out there, he’s working his tail off in everything that we do, and you know he’s very gifted in regard to that and he’s going to work to put himself in the right position to make things happen,” Alberti explains. Even in just one year, after coming to Hamilton this season, Alberti says he saw growth in Miller getting to coach him "First practice in June we knew what Jake was, and I got to see him previously when I was down in Higginsville, but I really got to see him grown and put forth the effort and put himself in the right position to be successful and you really saw that continue to grow from week one all the way through to the end of the season,” Alberti says. Miller is the first Division one signee from Hamilton since Kellen Overstreet signed with Wyoming in 2014. Miller says this means everything to him. "Been working hard all my life to get to this position,” Miller says Miller says to be considered a role model for younger kids getting an opportunity like this, is really cool "When I was younger I kind of looked up to those guys, so to kind of be in their shoes it’s an honor,” Miller proudly says. Miller helped lead the Hornets to the state title game last season, where Hamilton finished second place. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hamilton's Jacob Miller signs to play football at Northwestern

The Kansas State Wildcats are preparing for a coaching transition as head coach Chris Kleiman is getting ready to retire at the end of the season following the teams bowl game.

&nbsp;According to multiple reports. current Texas A&amp;M offensive coordinator Collin Klein, the former Wildcats quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist, will be hired as his successor.&nbsp; Klieman, who has led Kansas State since 2019 and is under contract through 2032, has not formally announced a decision.

Klieman guided Kansas State to a Big 12 Championship in 2022 and reestablished the program as a consistent conference contender following the retirement of longtime coach Bill Snyder. With a 54-34 record, Klieman owns one of the strongest winning percentages in school history, trailing only Snyder, who closed his second tenure with a 215-117 mark before stepping down in 2018.

Klein, currently the offensive coordinator for Texas A&amp;M, has emerged as the overwhelming favorite to take over, though he would stay with the Aggies through their College Football Playoff run, according to ESPN. He spent five seasons on Klieman's staff, including two as offensive coordinator, before departing for College Station ahead of the 2024 season.&nbsp;

Kansas State will hold a press conference today at 4 p.m

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764779529711.jpeg" alt="Chris Kleiman/ Courtesy Photo from X" />
 <figcaption>Chris Kleiman/ Courtesy Photo from X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas State Wildcats are preparing for a coaching transition as head coach Chris Kleiman is getting ready to retire at the end of the season following the teams bowl game.&nbsp;According to multiple reports. current Texas A&amp;M offensive coordinator Collin Klein, the former Wildcats quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist, will be hired as his successor.&nbsp; Klieman, who has led Kansas State since 2019 and is under contract through 2032, has not formally announced a decision.Klieman guided Kansas State to a Big 12 Championship in 2022 and reestablished the program as a consistent conference contender following the retirement of longtime coach Bill Snyder. With a 54-34 record, Klieman owns one of the strongest winning percentages in school history, trailing only Snyder, who closed his second tenure with a 215-117 mark before stepping down in 2018.Klein, currently the offensive coordinator for Texas A&amp;M, has emerged as the overwhelming favorite to take over, though he would stay with the Aggies through their College Football Playoff run, according to ESPN. He spent five seasons on Klieman's staff, including two as offensive coordinator, before departing for College Station ahead of the 2024 season.&nbsp;Kansas State will hold a press conference today at 4 p.m<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764779470984.jpeg" alt="Colin Klein/ Courtesy Photo from X" />
 <figcaption>Colin Klein/ Courtesy Photo from X</figcaption>
 </figure>

K State coach Klieman to retire, former coordinator Klein set to be named replacement

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2EV6VyZb2h0OyumP7zqcaL?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Last month, team owners from around the MINK League gathered for their annual meetings in Kansas City to prepare for the upcoming season.  

St. Joseph Mustangs General Manager and Owner Ky Turner is also the President of the MINK League.  Turner says among topics discussed, there was some exciting news 

"I can tell you there has been a shift in teams, but I’m really excited about the future of the MINK and where it will go,” Turner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

While the Sedalia Bombers and Jefferson City Renegades dropped out of the league, the league did add the North Missouri Natty's out of Kirksville as one team.  

Turner says he feels like the league is headed in a positive direction. 

"And that’s just not 2026, but 2027, 2028, and beyond,” Turner says.  “Just with the people who are a part of the league and the direction it’s heading, I think it’s really going to be a good thing.” 

There will be an announcement at a later date of a second team being added to the league.  The league is also preparing for a special year. 

Turner says the 2026 season marks the 30th year of the MINK League, after a group including former St. Joseph Saints owner Lyndon Black, started the league 

"Here in St. Joe, the St. Joseph Saints, actually first year for the MINK was 1996 and if my math is correct, and I don’t have to do the math because someone else told me and notified me, this is the 30th year of the MINK league,” Turner explains.  “Which I think is pretty awesome for a league like this, because you look around and there’s all kinds of leagues that are either stopping or new ones, and here we are since ‘96.” 

Turner says that is a big testament to the vision Black saw back in 1996 for collegiate summer baseball.   

The MINK will have announcements throughout the season celebrating the anniversary.  Turner says the league will do special thingsroughout the season.  One of those being celebrating historic players who played in the MINK 

Turner says many forget about some who have played in the MINK, using former Mustang and Missouri Western baseball player Grant Fink as an example 

"Grant got drafted, I believe we were in the middle of a game, so we had dto go tell Grant, it was so much fun to be able to do this, he walked off the field after being drafted to take off cause he was drafted by Cleveland,” Turner says.  “So, that was 2013, 2014, and now here we are roughly 10 years later and you turn on the Major League Baseball playoffs, wait a second that’s Grant Fink on TV he’s now their hitting coach, so maybe he’s not playing but he’s involved in Major League Baseball there.” 

Turner says then there's the Clarinda A's who had 44 players from their franchise who have played professionally, one notable alumnus being St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith.

The 2026 season will begin at the end of May.

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLast month, team owners from around the MINK League gathered for their annual meetings in Kansas City to prepare for the upcoming season. St. Joseph Mustangs General Manager and Owner Ky Turner is also the President of the MINK League. Turner says among topics discussed, there was some exciting news "I can tell you there has been a shift in teams, but I’m really excited about the future of the MINK and where it will go,” Turner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. While the Sedalia Bombers and Jefferson City Renegades dropped out of the league, the league did add the North Missouri Natty's out of Kirksville as one team. Turner says he feels like the league is headed in a positive direction. "And that’s just not 2026, but 2027, 2028, and beyond,” Turner says. “Just with the people who are a part of the league and the direction it’s heading, I think it’s really going to be a good thing.” There will be an announcement at a later date of a second team being added to the league. The league is also preparing for a special year. Turner says the 2026 season marks the 30th year of the MINK League, after a group including former St. Joseph Saints owner Lyndon Black, started the league "Here in St. Joe, the St. Joseph Saints, actually first year for the MINK was 1996 and if my math is correct, and I don’t have to do the math because someone else told me and notified me, this is the 30th year of the MINK league,” Turner explains. “Which I think is pretty awesome for a league like this, because you look around and there’s all kinds of leagues that are either stopping or new ones, and here we are since ‘96.” Turner says that is a big testament to the vision Black saw back in 1996 for collegiate summer baseball. The MINK will have announcements throughout the season celebrating the anniversary. Turner says the league will do special thingsroughout the season. One of those being celebrating historic players who played in the MINK Turner says many forget about some who have played in the MINK, using former Mustang and Missouri Western baseball player Grant Fink as an example "Grant got drafted, I believe we were in the middle of a game, so we had dto go tell Grant, it was so much fun to be able to do this, he walked off the field after being drafted to take off cause he was drafted by Cleveland,” Turner says. “So, that was 2013, 2014, and now here we are roughly 10 years later and you turn on the Major League Baseball playoffs, wait a second that’s Grant Fink on TV he’s now their hitting coach, so maybe he’s not playing but he’s involved in Major League Baseball there.” Turner says then there's the Clarinda A's who had 44 players from their franchise who have played professionally, one notable alumnus being St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith.The 2026 season will begin at the end of May.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

MINK League preparing for special season in 2026 with new faces

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7uU5vLlr38gIutpXc6Svgf?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Mizzou runs all over Arkansas for 4th straight Battle Line rivalry victory

 Ahmad Hardy ran for 149 yards and a touchdown while Jamal Roberts ran for another 100 yards and a score to lead Missouri to a 31-17 win over Arkansas in the regular season finale rivalry battle between the teams.

Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz, an Arkansas native, had previously been bandied as a potential candidate for the Razorbacks’ open head-coaching job. He signed an extension to stay at Missouri earlier in the week and beat Arkansas in a rivalry game for the fourth straight season.

The Tigers opened the scoring in the first quarter as Roberts rushed for his score, a four yard touchdown, but the Razorbacks tied the game up with a 16 yard touchdown pass from K.J Green to O'Mega Blake.&nbsp; Arkansas took the lead in the second quarter after the ball slipped from Beau Pribula’s hands as he cocked his arm to pass. Linebacker Bradley Shaw grabbed the fumble and returned it 32 yards to give Arkansas a 14-7 lead.

But Pribula, who threw for just 25 yards on 4-of-7 passing, but gained 78 yards on 16 carries, picked up Missouri’s second-quarter touchdown that tied the game at 14, an 11 yard touchdown run.&nbsp; A 28 yard field goal from Razorbacks kicker Scott Starzyk with 11 seconds in the half, gave Arkansas the 17-14 lead at the halftime break.

After halftime, it was all Missouri.&nbsp; Hardy, who entered the game third in FBS in yards rushing, gave the Tigers&nbsp; the lead, 20-17, on a 53-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Missouri added a 41 yard field goal from Oliver Robbins and a 67-yard punt-return touchdown from Kevin Coleman Jr. in the fourth quarter to go ahead by two scores.&nbsp; Roberts two point conversion run sealed the game.

Missouri’s 322 yards rushing marked the second-highest total for the Tigers this season and the most in an SEC game.&nbsp; On a day with little passing, Brett Norfleet led the receivers with two catches for 13 yards.

Missouri has firmly established themselves in the second tier of the SEC under Drinkwitz. Missouri’s eight regular-season wins provided the third winning season in a row, marking the first time that’s happened for the team since 2009-11.

Missouri (8-4, 4-4 SEC) now waits on its bowl destination.

Ravens advance with second half comeback over Campbellsville

The #5 seeded Benedictine Ravens completed a double-digit comeback to advance in the NAIA Football Championship Series with a 21-17 win over #12 seeded Campbellsville University Tigers.

The Ravens trailed 17-7 at half, but outscored the Tigers 14-0 in the second half to earn the win.

Benedictine thwarted the Tigers opening drive of the game when Isaiah Hasten picked off a Campbellsville pass in the end zone. After the teams traded punts, the Ravens put together a scoring drive that concluded with a one yard touchdown run from Dalton Witherspoon. The Ravens took a 7-0 lead after one quarter of play.

Campbellsville drove into Benedictine territory late in the first quarter and answered on the second play of the second quarter, leveling the score on a two yard run from Tre' Bass.&nbsp; The Ravens drove into Tigers territory on their ensuing drive, but Jaquon Coulter returned an interception 80 yards to give the visitors the lead&nbsp; After a turnover on downs by Benedictine, Colin Fratus connected on a 41-yard field goal with under a minute to play before half to give Campbellsville a 17-7 lead heading into the halftime break.

The turning point in the second half came on a special teams play midway through the third quarter. Ben Gilliland knifed through the Tigers line to block a punt, then recovered the ball in the end zone to pull the Ravens to within three points.&nbsp; The teams&nbsp; then traded empty possessions until Benedictine took over at their own 42-yard line with 8:38 to play in the game. 

Three rushes by Xavier Ugorji and a Tigers penalty put the Ravens at the Tigers 17-yard line. Dalton Witherspoon handled the rest, rushing for a 17-yard touchdown, his second of the day, to put the Ravens up 21-17 with 6:41 to play.&nbsp; The Tigers methodically drove down the field on the ensuing drive, eating five minutes off the clock while driving to the Ravens 33-yard line. Then, on the 12th play of the drive, Isaac Lopez sank into coverage and intercepted the Campbellsville pass to seal the win for the Ravens.

Witherspoon and Ugorji combined to rush for 233 yards – Ugorji with 123 yards and Witherspoon with 110 yards and two scores.&nbsp; Jackson Dooley was 8 of 19 through the air for 95 yards with an interception.&nbsp;&nbsp;Joseph Lagafuaina had four catches for 51 yards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Benedictine will now hit the road for the Quarterfinals of the NAIA Football Championship Series on Saturday against #4 seeded Friends University in Wichita.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 1pm.

Wildcats bowl eligible after Jackson's three score day against Colorado

 Joe Jackson rushed for 142 yards and three touchdowns as Kansas State defeated Colorado 24-14 and earned bowl eligibility for the fifth straight season on a cold and blustery day. The game-time temperature was 32 degrees with a wind chill of 24.

K-State used nearly half the first quarter to take a lead on a four yard touchdown run by Jackson.&nbsp; The teams wound up going to halftime tied, after the Buffaloes scored late in the second quarter, a one yard rushing touchdown from Micah Welch.&nbsp; After one rush, the clock ran out and the teams went to the halftime break tied 7-7.

Jackson scored his second touchdown of the day from one yard out with 4:32 left in the third quarter to give the Wildcats the lead back. The score capped a 56-yard drive.&nbsp; Kansas State made it a two-score game with a 35-yard field goal by Luis Rodriguez. The Wildcats stalled at the Colorado 19-yard line, but they burned 6:43 off the clock.

Welch's second rushing touchdown of the game capped a nine-play, 75-yard drive and brought the Buffaloes to within three points.&nbsp; But Jackson's third touchdown, a 17-yard scamper with 2:34 left, extended the lead to 10 points, sealing the game.

Quarterback Avery Johnson was 10-of-17 for 115 yards in difficult conditions for Kansas State.&nbsp; Jaron Tibbs was the leading receiver with four catches for 55 yards.

&nbsp;Kansas State (6-6, 5-4 Big 12) will now await a bowl invitation.

Jayhawks miss out on bowl as season ends at hands of #13 Utah

Devon Dampier threw for 253 yards and three touchdowns, Elijah Davis returned an interception 97 yards for another score, and #13 Utah came from behind to beat Kansas 31-21 on Friday.

Larry Simmons caught two touchdown passes, Wayshon Parker ran for 95 yards and Utah picked off Jalon Daniels three times in the final game of his college career, helping the Utes reach the 10-win mark for the third time in the last five years.&nbsp;Utah won despite allowing 290 yards rushing, one week after beating Kansas State after allowing 472 on the ground.

Utah looked as if it might turn Senior Day into a rout in the opening minutes, but the Kansas defense, which had let Leipold's team down so often this season, finally seemed to find its fight. The Jayhawks bottled up the Utes, who had been averaging 279.6 yards on the ground, and early on Dampier was having little success through the air, twice misfiring on fourth-down attempts.

Dillon Curtis hit a 34 yard field goal for the Utes to open the scoring, before Daniel Hishaw Jr put Kansas ahead with a seven yard touchdown run in the second quarter.&nbsp; Dampier threw a 58 yard touchdown pass on the ensuing drive though to JJ Buchanan and Utah led just 10-7 at the halftime break in a game it desperately needed to win.

The Jayhawks briefly pulled ahead after the break, when Utah coach Kyle Whittingham went for it on fourth down rather than kick a field goal on a cold, blustery day. Kansas made a stop, drove 67 yards, and Daniels' scoring sneak gave them a 14-10 advantage.&nbsp; But the momentum swung for good on his two red-zone blunders early in the fourth quarter.

First, Daniels was picked off while trying to throw the ball out of the end zone, and Utah needed just four plays to go 80 yards for a go-ahead touchdown, a 28 yard pass from Dampier to Simmons. Then, after Kansas marched downfield again, Daniels was picked off by Davis near the goal line, and the junior cornerback returned it 97 yards to give the Utes a 24-14 lead with 7:52 remaining.

Kansas did cut the lead to three points, as Daniels connected with Leyton Cure on a 21 yard touchdown pass.&nbsp; But Utah put the game away for good on Simmons second touchdown catch, a 48 yard throw from Dampier for the final score of the game.

Daniels finished with 187 yards passing and a touchdown, and also rushed for a score, though his turnovers led to a smattering of boos from Kansas fans, many of whom have endured the QB's highs and lows over the past six seasons.&nbsp; Hishaw Jr. had 107 yards rushing and a touchdown for the Jayhawks. Leshon Williams ran for 104.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emmanuel Henderson Jr. had three catches for 113 yards.

Kansas (5-7, 3-6 Big 12) started the season 4-2 before a loss to Texas Tech. It wound up losing five of its last six games. The Jayhawks now watch bowl season on TV for the second straight year

Huskers dominated by border rival Iowa for 10th time in 11 meetings

Mark Gronowski rushed for two touchdowns and passed for a third, Kamari Moulton ran for 93 yards and two scores, and Iowa spoiled Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson's career game with a 40-16 victory.

The Hawkeyes broke open what was a one-point game late in the second quarter with three touchdowns and a safety and they shut out the Cornhuskers in the second half. They took home the Heroes Trophy after their 10th win in 11 meetings with their border rival.

Johnson had 177 of his career-high 217 yards for Nebraska (7-5, 4-5) in the first half, and he matched his career high with 29 carries.&nbsp; It was Johnson's eighth 100-yard game of the season and fifth straight. He broke a career-long 70-yard run on the Huskers' first possession.&nbsp; However, he was limited to 40 yards on 10 carries in the second half.

The temperature was 26 degrees at kickoff, and intermittent light snow fell in the first half.&nbsp; The teams were tied at the end of the first quarter, Johnson opening the scoring with a one yard touchdown run, before the Hawkeyes took the lead scoring on back-to-back possessions, first cutting into the lead on a 41 yard field goal from Drew Stevens, before taking the lead on a 35 yard passing touchdown from Gronowski to DJ Vonnahme.&nbsp; Kyle Cunanan tied the game late in the quarter with a 31 yard feld goal

Cunanan knocked through another field goal in the second quarter, from 29 yards out, to put the Huskers ahead.&nbsp; Moulton's first touchdown of the game gave Iowa the lead back though, running in from three yards out.&nbsp; After Cunanan hit a 35 yard field goal to cut the lead to one, the Hawkeyes started taking control when Gronowski scored from the one yard in the final minute of the half, putting Iowa ahead 24-16 at the halftime break.

The Hawkeyes recorded a safety early in the third quarter when Jacory Barney muffed a punt and the Huskers’ Jamir Conn recovered it in the end zone. Touchdown runs of six yards by Gronowski and one yard by Moulton made it a 24-point game and sent many of the fans home early in the fourth quarter.

By MATT PIKEMizzou runs all over Arkansas for 4th straight Battle Line rivalry victory<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764491274037.jpeg" alt="Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz rides off on the Battle Line rivalry trophy after Mizzou defeated Arkansas 31-17 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz rides off on the Battle Line rivalry trophy after Mizzou defeated Arkansas 31-17 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure> Ahmad Hardy ran for 149 yards and a touchdown while Jamal Roberts ran for another 100 yards and a score to lead Missouri to a 31-17 win over Arkansas in the regular season finale rivalry battle between the teams.Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz, an Arkansas native, had previously been bandied as a potential candidate for the Razorbacks’ open head-coaching job. He signed an extension to stay at Missouri earlier in the week and beat Arkansas in a rivalry game for the fourth straight season.The Tigers opened the scoring in the first quarter as Roberts rushed for his score, a four yard touchdown, but the Razorbacks tied the game up with a 16 yard touchdown pass from K.J Green to O'Mega Blake.&nbsp; Arkansas took the lead in the second quarter after the ball slipped from Beau Pribula’s hands as he cocked his arm to pass. Linebacker Bradley Shaw grabbed the fumble and returned it 32 yards to give Arkansas a 14-7 lead.But Pribula, who threw for just 25 yards on 4-of-7 passing, but gained 78 yards on 16 carries, picked up Missouri’s second-quarter touchdown that tied the game at 14, an 11 yard touchdown run.&nbsp; A 28 yard field goal from Razorbacks kicker Scott Starzyk with 11 seconds in the half, gave Arkansas the 17-14 lead at the halftime break.After halftime, it was all Missouri.&nbsp; Hardy, who entered the game third in FBS in yards rushing, gave the Tigers&nbsp; the lead, 20-17, on a 53-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Missouri added a 41 yard field goal from Oliver Robbins and a 67-yard punt-return touchdown from Kevin Coleman Jr. in the fourth quarter to go ahead by two scores.&nbsp; Roberts two point conversion run sealed the game.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🤯 <a href="https://twitter.com/Ahmadhardy29?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ahmadhardy29</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STP</a> <a href="https://t.co/6OXIqVlTSW">https://t.co/6OXIqVlTSW</a> <a href="https://t.co/FHlh9mGmkM">pic.twitter.com/FHlh9mGmkM</a>&mdash; Mizzou Football (@MizzouFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouFootball/status/1994899421168111692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Missouri’s 322 yards rushing marked the second-highest total for the Tigers this season and the most in an SEC game.&nbsp; On a day with little passing, Brett Norfleet led the receivers with two catches for 13 yards.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Just different 🤷‍♂️ <a href="https://twitter.com/KevinLamarCole1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KevinLamarCole1</a> Kevin Coleman Jr. takes it back for a 67-yard punt return!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STP</a> <a href="https://t.co/KDof54TIAv">https://t.co/KDof54TIAv</a> <a href="https://t.co/FQEgx3ofNB">pic.twitter.com/FQEgx3ofNB</a>&mdash; Mizzou Football (@MizzouFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/MizzouFootball/status/1994913035996057790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Missouri has firmly established themselves in the second tier of the SEC under Drinkwitz. Missouri’s eight regular-season wins provided the third winning season in a row, marking the first time that’s happened for the team since 2009-11.Missouri (8-4, 4-4 SEC) now waits on its bowl destination.Ravens advance with second half comeback over Campbellsville<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764492706412.jpeg" alt="Dalton Witherspoon (33) rushed for 110 yards and two touchdowns as Benedictine scored 14 unanswered points in the second half in a 21-17 comeback win over Campbellsville/ Photo courtesy of Anna Zacharias- Benedictine Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Witherspoon (33) rushed for 110 yards and two touchdowns as Benedictine scored 14 unanswered points in the second half in a 21-17 comeback win over Campbellsville/ Photo courtesy of Anna Zacharias- Benedictine Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The #5 seeded Benedictine Ravens completed a double-digit comeback to advance in the NAIA Football Championship Series with a 21-17 win over #12 seeded Campbellsville University Tigers.The Ravens trailed 17-7 at half, but outscored the Tigers 14-0 in the second half to earn the win.Benedictine thwarted the Tigers opening drive of the game when Isaiah Hasten picked off a Campbellsville pass in the end zone. After the teams traded punts, the Ravens put together a scoring drive that concluded with a one yard touchdown run from Dalton Witherspoon. The Ravens took a 7-0 lead after one quarter of play.Campbellsville drove into Benedictine territory late in the first quarter and answered on the second play of the second quarter, leveling the score on a two yard run from Tre' Bass.&nbsp; The Ravens drove into Tigers territory on their ensuing drive, but Jaquon Coulter returned an interception 80 yards to give the visitors the lead&nbsp; After a turnover on downs by Benedictine, Colin Fratus connected on a 41-yard field goal with under a minute to play before half to give Campbellsville a 17-7 lead heading into the halftime break.The turning point in the second half came on a special teams play midway through the third quarter. Ben Gilliland knifed through the Tigers line to block a punt, then recovered the ball in the end zone to pull the Ravens to within three points.&nbsp; The teams&nbsp; then traded empty possessions until Benedictine took over at their own 42-yard line with 8:38 to play in the game. Three rushes by Xavier Ugorji and a Tigers penalty put the Ravens at the Tigers 17-yard line. Dalton Witherspoon handled the rest, rushing for a 17-yard touchdown, his second of the day, to put the Ravens up 21-17 with 6:41 to play.&nbsp; The Tigers methodically drove down the field on the ensuing drive, eating five minutes off the clock while driving to the Ravens 33-yard line. Then, on the 12th play of the drive, Isaac Lopez sank into coverage and intercepted the Campbellsville pass to seal the win for the Ravens.Witherspoon and Ugorji combined to rush for 233 yards – Ugorji with 123 yards and Witherspoon with 110 yards and two scores.&nbsp; Jackson Dooley was 8 of 19 through the air for 95 yards with an interception.&nbsp;&nbsp;Joseph Lagafuaina had four catches for 51 yards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Benedictine will now hit the road for the Quarterfinals of the NAIA Football Championship Series on Saturday against #4 seeded Friends University in Wichita.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 1pm.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wxeai113M_w?si=52HX1MxINWXStqMF" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Wildcats bowl eligible after Jackson's three score day against Colorado<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764494589276.jpeg" alt="Avery Johnson hands the ball off to Joe Jackson before he rushes for a touchdown.&nbsp; Jackson had another big day on the ground, running for 142 yards and three touchdowns/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Avery Johnson hands the ball off to Joe Jackson before he rushes for a touchdown.&nbsp; Jackson had another big day on the ground, running for 142 yards and three touchdowns/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure> Joe Jackson rushed for 142 yards and three touchdowns as Kansas State defeated Colorado 24-14 and earned bowl eligibility for the fifth straight season on a cold and blustery day. The game-time temperature was 32 degrees with a wind chill of 24.K-State used nearly half the first quarter to take a lead on a four yard touchdown run by Jackson.&nbsp; The teams wound up going to halftime tied, after the Buffaloes scored late in the second quarter, a one yard rushing touchdown from Micah Welch.&nbsp; After one rush, the clock ran out and the teams went to the halftime break tied 7-7.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TOUCHDOWN WILDCATS 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KStateFB</a> is on the board first! <a href="https://t.co/r5nwvxXHqw">pic.twitter.com/r5nwvxXHqw</a>&mdash; FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFBONFOX/status/1994817613076328881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Jackson scored his second touchdown of the day from one yard out with 4:32 left in the third quarter to give the Wildcats the lead back. The score capped a 56-yard drive.&nbsp; Kansas State made it a two-score game with a 35-yard field goal by Luis Rodriguez. The Wildcats stalled at the Colorado 19-yard line, but they burned 6:43 off the clock.Welch's second rushing touchdown of the game capped a nine-play, 75-yard drive and brought the Buffaloes to within three points.&nbsp; But Jackson's third touchdown, a 17-yard scamper with 2:34 left, extended the lead to 10 points, sealing the game.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JOE JACKSON REFUSED TO GO DOWN ‼️ He dives into the end zone for his THIRD <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KStateFB</a> TD of the game 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/gqLrxoTglY">pic.twitter.com/gqLrxoTglY</a>&mdash; FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFBONFOX/status/1994857144903242064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Quarterback Avery Johnson was 10-of-17 for 115 yards in difficult conditions for Kansas State.&nbsp; Jaron Tibbs was the leading receiver with four catches for 55 yards.&nbsp;Kansas State (6-6, 5-4 Big 12) will now await a bowl invitation.Jayhawks miss out on bowl as season ends at hands of #13 Utah<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764495964100.jpeg" alt="Daniel Hishaw Jr. ran for 107 yards and a touchdown as the Jayhawks season came to an end in a 31-21 loss to #13 Utah/ Photo courtesy of Kansas Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Hishaw Jr. ran for 107 yards and a touchdown as the Jayhawks season came to an end in a 31-21 loss to #13 Utah/ Photo courtesy of Kansas Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Devon Dampier threw for 253 yards and three touchdowns, Elijah Davis returned an interception 97 yards for another score, and #13 Utah came from behind to beat Kansas 31-21 on Friday.Larry Simmons caught two touchdown passes, Wayshon Parker ran for 95 yards and Utah picked off Jalon Daniels three times in the final game of his college career, helping the Utes reach the 10-win mark for the third time in the last five years.&nbsp;Utah won despite allowing 290 yards rushing, one week after beating Kansas State after allowing 472 on the ground.Utah looked as if it might turn Senior Day into a rout in the opening minutes, but the Kansas defense, which had let Leipold's team down so often this season, finally seemed to find its fight. The Jayhawks bottled up the Utes, who had been averaging 279.6 yards on the ground, and early on Dampier was having little success through the air, twice misfiring on fourth-down attempts.Dillon Curtis hit a 34 yard field goal for the Utes to open the scoring, before Daniel Hishaw Jr put Kansas ahead with a seven yard touchdown run in the second quarter.&nbsp; Dampier threw a 58 yard touchdown pass on the ensuing drive though to JJ Buchanan and Utah led just 10-7 at the halftime break in a game it desperately needed to win.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DeuceHishaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeuceHishaw</a> is THE MAN <a href="https://t.co/9hmJhcSQpn">https://t.co/9hmJhcSQpn</a> <a href="https://t.co/zBVIzIy8xJ">pic.twitter.com/zBVIzIy8xJ</a>&mdash; Kansas Football (@KU_Football) <a href="https://twitter.com/KU_Football/status/1994463166839812369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Jayhawks briefly pulled ahead after the break, when Utah coach Kyle Whittingham went for it on fourth down rather than kick a field goal on a cold, blustery day. Kansas made a stop, drove 67 yards, and Daniels' scoring sneak gave them a 14-10 advantage.&nbsp; But the momentum swung for good on his two red-zone blunders early in the fourth quarter.First, Daniels was picked off while trying to throw the ball out of the end zone, and Utah needed just four plays to go 80 yards for a go-ahead touchdown, a 28 yard pass from Dampier to Simmons. Then, after Kansas marched downfield again, Daniels was picked off by Davis near the goal line, and the junior cornerback returned it 97 yards to give the Utes a 24-14 lead with 7:52 remaining.Kansas did cut the lead to three points, as Daniels connected with Leyton Cure on a 21 yard touchdown pass.&nbsp; But Utah put the game away for good on Simmons second touchdown catch, a 48 yard throw from Dampier for the final score of the game.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/gzwfa0JRif">https://t.co/gzwfa0JRif</a> <a href="https://t.co/0LwoEGkCHs">pic.twitter.com/0LwoEGkCHs</a>&mdash; Kansas Football (@KU_Football) <a href="https://twitter.com/KU_Football/status/1994497835749052571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Daniels finished with 187 yards passing and a touchdown, and also rushed for a score, though his turnovers led to a smattering of boos from Kansas fans, many of whom have endured the QB's highs and lows over the past six seasons.&nbsp; Hishaw Jr. had 107 yards rushing and a touchdown for the Jayhawks. Leshon Williams ran for 104.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emmanuel Henderson Jr. had three catches for 113 yards.Kansas (5-7, 3-6 Big 12) started the season 4-2 before a loss to Texas Tech. It wound up losing five of its last six games. The Jayhawks now watch bowl season on TV for the second straight yearHuskers dominated by border rival Iowa for 10th time in 11 meetings<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764498019450.jpeg" alt="Emmett Johnson posted his eighth 100 yard rushing game of the season, running for 217 yards and a touchdown, but Iowa dominated beating Nebraska 40-17 in the border rivalry matchup/ Photo courtesy of Nebraska Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Emmett Johnson posted his eighth 100 yard rushing game of the season, running for 217 yards and a touchdown, but Iowa dominated beating Nebraska 40-17 in the border rivalry matchup/ Photo courtesy of Nebraska Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Gronowski rushed for two touchdowns and passed for a third, Kamari Moulton ran for 93 yards and two scores, and Iowa spoiled Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson's career game with a 40-16 victory.The Hawkeyes broke open what was a one-point game late in the second quarter with three touchdowns and a safety and they shut out the Cornhuskers in the second half. They took home the Heroes Trophy after their 10th win in 11 meetings with their border rival.Johnson had 177 of his career-high 217 yards for Nebraska (7-5, 4-5) in the first half, and he matched his career high with 29 carries.&nbsp; It was Johnson's eighth 100-yard game of the season and fifth straight. He broke a career-long 70-yard run on the Huskers' first possession.&nbsp; However, he was limited to 40 yards on 10 carries in the second half.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚡️💰<a href="https://t.co/FzWw0LN7bf">pic.twitter.com/FzWw0LN7bf</a>&mdash; Nebraska Football (@HuskerFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/HuskerFootball/status/1994457131840311807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The temperature was 26 degrees at kickoff, and intermittent light snow fell in the first half.&nbsp; The teams were tied at the end of the first quarter, Johnson opening the scoring with a one yard touchdown run, before the Hawkeyes took the lead scoring on back-to-back possessions, first cutting into the lead on a 41 yard field goal from Drew Stevens, before taking the lead on a 35 yard passing touchdown from Gronowski to DJ Vonnahme.&nbsp; Kyle Cunanan tied the game late in the quarter with a 31 yard feld goalCunanan knocked through another field goal in the second quarter, from 29 yards out, to put the Huskers ahead.&nbsp; Moulton's first touchdown of the game gave Iowa the lead back though, running in from three yards out.&nbsp; After Cunanan hit a 35 yard field goal to cut the lead to one, the Hawkeyes started taking control when Gronowski scored from the one yard in the final minute of the half, putting Iowa ahead 24-16 at the halftime break.The Hawkeyes recorded a safety early in the third quarter when Jacory Barney muffed a punt and the Huskers’ Jamir Conn recovered it in the end zone. Touchdown runs of six yards by Gronowski and one yard by Moulton made it a 24-point game and sent many of the fans home early in the fourth quarter.Nebraska freshman TJ Lateef, making his third start in place of the injured Dylan Raiola and first at Memorial Stadium, played most of the game with a tight hamstring and was just 9 of 24 for 69 yards.&nbsp; Johnson, on top of being the leading rusher, was the leading receiver with two catches for 22 yards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Luke Lindenmeyer had two catches for 20 yards and Dane Key had three catches for 16 yards.Both teams wait to find out their bowl destinations next SundayYou can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.