SportsBeat KC

How many games will the Chiefs win? How many touchdown passes with Patrick Mahomes throw? The NFL opener between the Chiefs and Houston Texans is the ideal time to pose those questions on SportsBeat Live with The Kansas City Star’s A-Team of Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell, Sam Mellinger, Vahe Gregorian and host Blair Kerkhoff.Hopes are high for a Super Bowl repeat, although that hasn’t happened in the NFL since 2004. Here, our group discusses how that might and might not occur. Also, what newcomers could make an impact? And how did not having preseason games affect the Chiefs? We also catch up on news around the AFC West and take viewers’ questions.Story links:Here’s what Chiefs fans can expect to see on TV when watching Thursday’s openerHow comebacks defined Chiefs’ Super Bowl run and what that says about this seasonNFL debut of Chiefs’ Edwards-Helaire has arrived. That’s thrilling for several reasons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By Tuesday, two games had been removed from this Saturday’s Big 12 football schedule because of COVID-19. But they didn’t involved Kansas State or Kansas. Their seasons are set, for now, to open this weekend against non-conference opponents.It’s unlikely that the Wildcats and Jayhawks — and nearly every college football team that takes the field this season — will be at full strength because of the pandemic. Coaches Chris Klieman and Les Miles have said they’re missing players in practice this week.But ready or not, the Big 12 season is about to begin. Beat writers Kellis Robinett and Jesse Newell discuss the latest college football issues and the teams they cover with host Blair Kerkhoff on this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Chris Klieman dealing with roster unknowns as Kansas State prepares for opening gameBreaking down the five biggest surprises on Kansas State’s depth chart for Week 1Five bold predictions and game-by-game picks for Kansas State’s 2020 football seasonKansas Jayhawks football: 5 bold predictions and game-by-game picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Game week has arrived for the Super Bowl champion Chiefs, who take on the Houston Texans Thursday to open the NFL’s Kickoff Weekend.Quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and DeShaun Watson square off for the first time as the NFL’s two richest quarterbacks by virtue of summer contract extensions.Like all NFL teams, the Chiefs and Texans had to pare their rosters to 53 players Saturday, but with a Thursday game they’ll have had less time than other organizations to work with their final rosters. On this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily podcast, general manager Brett Veach breaks down some of the Chiefs’ more difficult roster trimming decisions.You’ll also hear from Mahomes, who speaks on a variety of topics, including the Chiefs’ readiness to defend their championship.Story links:How the Chiefs made their toughest roster decision: Speaks, Wharton, WR, RB and moreFirst Chiefs depth chart reveals three possible starters who weren’t on Super Bowl team Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Conferences playing college football in the fall will have started by Sept. 12, except for the SEC.The nation’s top football conference is waiting until Sept. 26 to kick off. That means more time for Missouri to get work under new head coach Eli Drinkwitz. What can the Tigers get done in the next three weeks? Polish up the offense, for starters.Mizzou beat writer Souichi Terada talks Tigers on this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, with host Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, you’ll hear from Shaun Goodwin, who covers Sporting KC for The Star. The club is coming off a 1-1 draw with FC Dallas, but the game will likely be remembered for the lineup changes made, and the young midfielders played by coach Peter Vermes.Story links:Mizzou’s cornerbacks are making life hard for the MU offense, and that’s not a bad thingA call for unity: Why Mizzou athletes organized a peaceful march for racial equalitySporting KC settles for draw vs. Dallas in midweek showdown at Children’s Mercy ParkA Sporting KC stalwart, sandwiches and high school sports. Here’s how they’re connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of the Chiefs’ big roster decisions were made in the form of contract extensions or restructuring, plus a draft the team counted as successful. But cut down day arrives on Saturday and the Super Bowl champion will have to let go of some candidates to trim the roster from 80 to 53. The opener is only five days later, against the Houston Texans.Who’s on the bubble? The Chiefs have some interesting choices to make especially at wide receiver and defensive end. Special teams likely will come in to play in the process. It hasn’t helped players in camp for the first time that there was no preseason games. Their game isn’t on tape.Chiefs beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell along with Star columnist Sam Mellinger and SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff break down the roster, specuate on the cuts, discuss the impending contract extensions of Andy Reid and Brett Veach and more.Story links:As deadline nears, Chiefs’ roster decisions are harder this year. Who makes the cut?The specific life experiences that prepped Patrick Mahomes for stardom with the Chiefs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six days after releasing a fall football schedule, the Big Ten announced it wouldn’t have a season.That was three weeks ago and there has been plenty of blowback since, especially from Nebraska. A group of eight Huskers football players filed a lawsuit claiming the Big Ten’s decision was invalid.On this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, Omaha World-Herald columnist Tom Shatel joins host Blair Kerkhoff in breaking down a stretch so wild that both presidential candidates have become involved. Why? The Big Ten footprint includes such election battleground states as Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Iowa and Pennsylvania.Notice the candidates haven’t said much about the Pac-12 shutting down for the fall.Shatel discusses why Nebraska isn’t playing nice with the Big Ten and why some playing options for this academic year are better than others.Story links:Tom Shatel: Omaha World-HeraldNebraska fully committed to Big Ten. So no rogue football schedule Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The question last week — would the Royals move any major pieces before baseball’s trade deadline? — was answered in the affirmative. Closer Trevor Rosenthal, who had regained the form that made him an All-Star in St. Louis, was traded to the Padres.The Royals, it seems, have 2021 and beyond in mind.Rosenthal’s gone, but the KC bullpen, perhaps the most improved part of this year’s team, still turned in a superb performance in Monday’s 2-1 victory over the Cleveland Indians. Greg Holland picked up his first save at Kauffman Stadium in a Royals uniform since 2015.In this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in a conversation about where the Royals go from here, and you’ll hear from Holland, too.Story links:Royals stand pad on trade deadline day, and stop short on going all in on tankingRoyals announce they are canceling 2021 FanFest, announce dates for 2022 eventBubba Starling comes through with a clutch hit and Greg Holland closes out a 2-1 win over Cleveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The strangest of training camps has ended for the Chiefs and focus turns to Saturday’s cut down date and the season opener the following Thursday against the Houston Texans. Before looking ahead, beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell join SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff and gaze back at the camp that took place for the first time at the team’s practice facility at the Truman Sports Complex because of the coronavirus.Who stood out? Who surprised? Who might start? That kind of daily speculation filled reporters’ notebooks when the team was training at Missouri Western. But the flow of guesswork was slowed this season. The Chiefs return most starters and without preseason games veterans were going to have an edge over newcomers.After a break, you’ll hear from Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, who met the media over the weekend to discuss many topics from contracts to protests and Native American imagery.Story links:That’s a wrap. Chiefs conclude training camp, shift focus to approaching season opener.Clark Hunt once perferred Chiefs stand for anthem but says now it’s “time to understand”Clark Hunt: Chiefs mulling more changes to Native American imagery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The second half of the shortened baseball season got off to a lousy start for the Royals, that 6-5 loss in St. Louis on Wednesday when the Royals blew a three-run lead in the ninth. It doesn’t get easier as the team begins a three-game series tonight in Chicago against a White Sox team that has won nine of 10.Beat writer Lynn Worthy joins host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC to talk Royals, the upcoming trade deadline and the team’s move that sent outfielder Brett Phillips to the Tampa Bay Rays for shortstop Lucius Fox.Also you’ll hear what Whit Merrifield had to say after Wednesday’s game when asked if the Royals had considered not playing in light of the protests after the Jacob Blake shooting by police earlier in the week in Wisconsin.Story links:With trade deadline approaching Royals deal Phillips to Tampa Bay for infielderRoyals’ Merrifield explains why it was important to play, even as 3 MLB games were postpontedRoyals’ Rosenthal flattered by trade interest but proclaims desire to remain in KC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs are one of a handful of NFL teams that is opening its gates to fans for games, at least in the early part of the season. The team also is making moves regarding its Native American imagery and the organization is getting behind a get-out-the-vote initiative.All that while holding the Super Bowl favorite’s role.Team president Mark Donovan spoke to reporters about the off-field issues and you’ll hear the entire interview on SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. Donovan dropped some news about a potential polling place at Arrowhead Stadium.Also, you’ll hear what Andy Reid had to say about the recent shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisc., which has reignited protests and prompted cancellations in the NBA, MLB, MLS, WNBA, and some NFL practices.Story links:Chiefs president explains plans for fans in the stands and perceived elevated ticket pricesChiefs want to turn Arrowhead Stadium into a voting location this NovemberHere’s why the Chiefs are banning Native American imagery and evaluating the chopAndy Reid opens Chiefs session with heartfelt Jacob Blake, Kenosha unrest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans clicked through the turnstiles for Kansas City’s first pro sports game since March Tuesday night, as Sporting KC played host to the Houston Dynamo at Children’s Mercy Park. Seating was limited to about 2,300 spectators, but they were loud, energetic and appreciated by coach Peter Vermes and the players.If only they were rewarded with a better result. Sporting KC fell to the Dynamo 5-2 in a game that got out of hand in the second half. “This is one of those times where you say it’s a bad day,” Vermes said. “It happens sometimes. ... After 30 minutes or so, we started chasing shadows.”Star columnist Sam Mellinger and beat writer Shaun Goodwin attended the game — masks on, of course — and share their observations here with host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:s:Sporting played Kansas City’s first game with fans in months. Here’s what it felt likeSporting KC, back in action with fans in the stands, coughs up 5-2 loss to HoustonThe fans return: Limited capacity crowd cheers on Sporting KC at Children’s Mercy Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2020 college football was supposed to start this weekend with a handful of games followed by the traditional full slate of games over Labor Day weekend. There won’t be a grand opening for the sport this season. But a staggered beginning with Big 12, ACC and other conferences starting Sept. 12 and SEC schools on Sept. 26.But every day there’s more news about COVID-19 on campus that makes you think a bubble is the best solution to get in a season. But teams are practicing and planning for openers. On today’s SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, Kansas beat writer Jesse Newell talks college sports and the questions facing the Jayhawks this season.Can Kansas match last year’s victory total of three games, even with two fewer games on the schedule? What’s the quarterback situation and who could emerge on defense? We even get into a little basketball. Because, Kansas.Story links:Why the success of KU’s footbal offense could come down to four letters: “WWDD?”KU Jayhawks football has a new season opener. It will be against a familiar opponentFormer KU football player Isi Holani dies at age 24. Teammates reflect on his impact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans in the stands - the Chiefs were the first in the NFL to make that happen in a preseason practice. It wasn’t the same as a training camp morning at Missouri Western in St. Joseph, where up to 5,000 would attend. But Chiefs players said they enjoyed having the energy of some 2,000 fans in the stands on Satruday.But were they practicing safety measures in the COVID-19 pandemic? Several fans were shown on social media accounts not wearing masks. They’ll get another chance this Saturday, when some 5,000 people are expected to attend practice. So, no headdress, but masks.Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid addressed having fans in the stands and several other topics when addressing media. You’ll hear those comments on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes emphasize the importance of wearing masks at Arrowhead StadiumThe Chiefs practiced with 2,000 fans are Arrowhead. Masks were required, not always worn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As you’d expect, reaction has been swift and full-throated from Chiefs fans and others about the team’s announcement it’s banning headdresses and Native American-style face-painting at Arrowhead Stadium.The team said it made the decision after years of consulting with local leaders from Native American backgrounds. Those discussions have been happening since 2014.Some fans say the team has gone too far with these changes, and that it will hurt fan engagement. Others say the Chiefs were long overdue in implementing these things.The Chiefs have expanded their talks with national interest groups on this topic and said in their Thursday statement that they are still considering the future of other Arrowhead traditions, such as “The Chop” and the pre-game beating of their war drum. They also said they’re exploring a more formalized education program about Native American culture.On this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger join host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss. Each has written about the topic of appropriation of Native customs and imagery, and in this podcast they debate whether the team has made the right moves and/or gone far enough, and what might be next for the organization.Story links:Chiefs to ban fans from wearing headdresses and will review Arrowhead chop at stadiumA statement from the Kansas City ChiefsChiefs fans have mixed opinions about whether Arrowhead chop should remain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For a pair of teams chasing. .500 records, plenty happened in the Royals split of a double header with the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday. In the opener, Brad Keller was dazzling again. He ran his shutout total to open the season to 17 2/3 innings, and is having the best start by a Royals pitcher since Zack Greinke won the Cy Young Award in 2009.In the second game, Matt Harvey made his Royals debut. The former Mets’ starter who faced the Royals twice in the 2015 World Series looked good early but got roughed up in the third inning. The Royals’ plans for Harvey? Beat writer Lynn Worthy breaks it down with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Moustakas finally returns to KC but Keller’s dominance helps shut out his RedsRoyals fall to Reds in Matt Harvey’s debut and Jesse Hahn’s returnReds’ broadcaster uses homophobic slur during Wednesday’s game against the Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting KC is on the verge of a season restart ... for the second time. Every Major League Soccer team was inactive for COVID-19 until the MLS is Back Tournament reopened the season last month. Once the knockout round started, losing teams were finished at the Orlando site and returned home to await the regular season re-start.For Sporting KC, that will have been more than three weeks between games when the team takes on Minnesota United FC on Friday. That game in Minnesota. Sporting returns home on July 25 and some 2,500 fans will be allowed to watch from Children’s Mercy Park, making Sporting KC the first Kansas City team to allow fans.Sporting beat writer Shaun Goodwin discusses the second re-start and fans in the stands, along with several other topics on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. After a break, you’ll hear from Sporting KC CEO Jake Reid, who met with reporters last week to discuss the details of fans returning to see live action.Story links:Sporting Kansas City CEO discusses decision to let fans back in stadium for home games.Sporting KC unveils schedule for remainder of 2020 with reduced capacity at home gamesSt. Louis’ new MLS team accidently leaked its name and crest before unveiling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans are returning to Arrowhead Stadium this season.The Chiefs announced earlier this week that about 16,000 fans will be allowed to attend home games, at least the first three. Tickets will be sold in “pods,” with up to six seats in each pod. The pods will be spread throughout the stadium.It will be a different fan experience, as it as it is for every sport in the COVID-19 world. Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian tell us what they think of the decision to allow fans on today’s episode of the daily SportsBeat KC podcast, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, Sam speaks about his column from Sunday and where, and how, high school sports fit right now. He interviewed coaches, administrators and parents about this subject, and came up with conclusions that you might not expect.Story links:Chiefs will allow fans at home games this fall. Here is the capacity they’ll welcomeNot “100 percent full proof:” KC health director on decision to allow Chiefs fans this seasonHigh school football’s happening this fall, in some places at least. Let’s unpack that Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The tight end position in the NFL has been undervalued, but players like the Chiefs’ Travis Kelce and the 49ers George Kittle are beginning to change that. The Chiefs recently announced an extention for Kelce that will pay him an average of $14.3 million annually. WIth four straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons, five Pro Bowls, two All-Pro honors and a big role in helping the Chiefs win the Super Bowl, Kelce deserves to be paid like a major contributor.Also, how exactly did Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy compliment quarterback Patrick Mahomes? Hear it and Mahomes’ response on SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce got a big raise. But he still might be underappreciated. Let’s access.Why Chiefs offensive coordinator Bieniemy called Patrick Mahomes a “competitive (jerk)“Fresh off new contract, Travis Kelce unveils big plans to help inner-city kids Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sunday will be a day like no other for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, which is celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the league’s founding in Kansas City. Every team throughout baseball will honor the Negro Leagues and the museum during Sunday’s games. Players, coaches and umpires will wear patches and museum president Bob Kendrick will be making appearances on broadcasts throughout the day culminating with an appearance on ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.The celebration has taken many forms this year. Toyota has a commercial that features a former Kansas City Monarchs player. Former pitching star C.C. Sabathia has collaborated on a Negro Leagues clothing line and sharing proceeds with the museum. Four former U.S. Presidents led the way with a tip-your-cap salute to the Negro Leagues.Kendrick wasn’t sure a celebration would work in the COVID-19 pandemic spring and summer. But he had faith in the idea and the exclamation point comes Sunday in baseball stadiums around the country. Kendrick shares his thoughts on the day and how it came about on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Bob Kendrick: Negro Leagues players set a world-class example of determination Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The drama in college football this week involved the Big Ten, Pac-12 and the Big 12. Would their conferences have fall sports, including football? That never seemed to be doubt in the SEC. The league issued a statement on Tuesday that called for a “safe return to sports,” by Commissioner Greg Sankey.On SportsBeat KC, beat writer Souichi Terada talks about moving forward in football at Mizzou and the SEC. How are the Tigers handling the COVID-19 pandemic and how the program fared when the conference issued a new football schedule. Also you’ll hear from football coach Eli Drinkwitz, who met with reporters on Wednesday.Story links:So far, so good: Mizzou football has low COVID-19 rates, no opt-outs, and, still, a seasonPac-12, Big Ten won’t play football this fall. Big 12, SEC, ACC on track toward kickoff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The lineup is in for college football, at least at the moment.Moving toward a season are the Big 12, SEC and ACC. Not having a season are the Big Ten and Pac-12. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted college sports in a major way in March with the cancellation of the NCAA Tournament.Now it’s playing havoc with college football.On this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, K-State beat writer Kellis Robinett chats with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff about the news of the past few days. How did we come to this, when it appeared all major conferences were on course to play games as scheduled this fall? After a break, you’ll hear from Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby, who says the league is taking its cues from medical professionals.Also revealed Wednesday: the Big 12 football schedules for each team.Story links:How and why the Big 12 is giving it a go with enhanced testing, other protocolsHere’s everything you need to know about K-State’s 2020 football scheduleKU has a new football schedule: “We continue to prepare for our season cautiously” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Chiefs put together their offseason financial puzzle, some top priorities were established: Take care of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones. Mission accomplished on both fronts.But the Chiefs were also intent on bringing back nearly every starter from their Super Bowl championship team, even if that meant restructuring some players’ contracts.So it was with wide receiver Sammy Watkins. He could have been released to sign with another team and earn a bigger pay day. But the veteran wideout who led the Chiefs with 288 postseason receiving yards and turned in a huge play on their go-ahead touchdown drive in the Super Bowl wanted to stay in Kansas City. “This is my happy place,” he said this week.Hear more from Watkins on this episode of The Star’s daily podcast, SportsBeat KC, along with Mahomes and coach Andy Reid. Each man met with the media earlier this week as training camp got into full swing at the Chiefs’ training facility. For the first time, Mahomes spoke publicly about purchasing a stake in the Kansas City Royals ... and what he thought of the recent Tyreek Hill vs. Mecole Hardman footrace.Story links:“This is my happy place,” Watkins fine with less money, output to stay in Kansas CityMahomes’ Royals investment could lead to buying a team one day. But first things firstWatch the footrace between Chiefs receivers Tyreek Hill and Mecole Hardman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By late Monday afternoon, nobody knew if there would be a college football season or how much of one there would be. One newspaper reported the Big Ten was ready to opt out on a fall, 2020 season. The Pac-12 might not be far behind. Where would that leave the Big 12, SEC and ACC?Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger discuss the state of college football on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. How did the sport reach this pivotal juncture? What happens if there is no college football season? And my, don’t think things get political?The sport should know soon about its immediate future. But the circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic could bring changes to the sport, like a commissioner of college football.Story links:Report: Big Ten out of college football for 2020: Some players say #WeWantToPlayhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/article244847667.htmlWhat’s next for Big 12 football if Big Ten cancels its football games in the fall?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/article244853542.htmlWith college football in flux, some Mizzou players say they want to play despite COVIDhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article244853597.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals ended their week-long skid on Thursday with a 13-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs, which means they’ve won every game they’ve played with outfielder Nick Heath in the starting lineup. Heath, who grew up in Junction City, made his first major league start in the game, collected his first hit and ended the game with a catch that resulted in him crashing into the wall.You’ll hear from Heath, Royals manager Mike Matheny, and beat writer Lynn Worthy talks about the team’s week. What went right, like young starting pitching, and what didn’t. The season continues with a weekend series against another playoff team from last season, the Minnesota Twins. But at least the Royals won’t go 0-for-Chicago this season. The six-game skid came against the White Sox and Cubs.Story links:Royals jump all over Cubs as Merrifield, Franco, Soler homer in 13-run outburstRoyals’ roster decision sends Erick Mejia back down but opens a door for Nick HeathHere’s how Kauffman Stadium looked with virtual fans in stands during Fox’s broadcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Thursday, Chiefs’ offensive lineman Lucas Niang became the first rookie to opt out of this season. Niang figured to compete for playing time with veteran guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif having already opted out. Instead, the door is open for veteran Keleche Osemele to step into a starting role.On SportsBeat KC, we hear from Osemele, who met the media earlier this week. He talks about his previous stops in the NFL and his reaction to getting the news that the Chiefs wanted to sign him. After a break, Frank Clark speaks publicly for the first time since the Super Bowl. Clark played a big role in the team’s success last season in his first year with the team.Story links:Chiefs rookie Lucas Niang elects to opt out of 2020 seasonThis newcomer is excited to contribute, help the Chiefs continue winning. And he’s needed Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big 12 schools will play a 10-game football schedule, but precisely when it starts and the one non-conference foe for each school remains uncertain. But these are uncertain times overall for the college sports landscape.Beat writers Kellis Robinett (Kansas State) and Jesse Newell (Kansas) discuss where things stand in the Big 12 and at the Sunflower State schools.After a break, the beat writers talk college basketball in Kansas City, specifically the best moments at Sprint Center for the Jayhawks and Wildcats. Thanks to a recent corporate merger, the building is now officially known as T-Mobile Center. Both programs had some great moments when the building was called Sprint.Story links:Big 12 football moving forward with plans for 10-game schedule in the fallK-State once again looking at famous Lockett family for wide receiver recruitTMobile tweet 0805 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In any other year, the Chiefs would be counting down the days to their first preseason game.In 2020, thanks to the pandemic, there are no preseason games. But there are interviews with Chiefs coaches and players. Head coach Andy Reid discusses this unique preseason, carrying on without running back Damien Williams, who has opted out due to COVID-19, and several more topics on this installment of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.After a break, you’ll hear from safety Tyrann Mathieu, the star safety who after one year in a Chiefs uniform has taken on a leadership role with the team. He explains the precautions he and his teammates are taking in the Chiefs’ training camp bubble and how he’s helping to set the tone for another Super Bowl run.Story links:Chiefs vets like Mathieu, Kelce will step up as leaders during this unusual training campAre Chiefs players worried about COVID-19? Here’s what they say about playing during a pandemic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Never has the idea of “no time like the present” to make improvements been more true than this baseball season. The Royals have lost seven of their first 10 games, and in a 60-game season, the turnaround time is greatly reduced. That also goes for individuals like Adalberto Mondesi. The promising shortstop is off to slow start, at the plate, in the field and on the base paths.On SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian break down the team’s and Mondesi’s season and what it will take to get back on track.After a break, the discussion turns to the opt-out decision by Chiefs running back Damien Williams and why some sports and leagues are doing a better job handling the re-start better than others.Story links:Ever real Danny Duffy deals, delivers on doing the right things during the pandemicRoyals crater in seventh as White Sox sweep first series of season at Kauffman StadiumChiefs’ Damien Williams reveals he’s opting out because of his mother’s illness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis Kelce says the Chiefs feel safe in their training camp facility at Arrowhead Stadium. The important thing is for players to be responsible when they leave the facility to return home. The Chiefs tight end touched on a range of topics head on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Also, on the episode, running back Damien Williams tells Sirius XM that opting out this season was based on a family illness. You’ll also hear from Sporting KC’s Peter Vermes who disappointed in himself after Thursday’s elimination loss in the MLS is Back Tournament.Finally, Kris Bubic tells us how he found out he would make his major league debut as the Royals starting pitcher in tonight’s home opener.Story links:Chiefs vets like Mathieu, Kelce will step up leaders during unusual training campSporting KC gets bounced by Philadelphia in MLS is Back TournamentThis Royals pitcher will make his MLB debut in Friday’s opener against the White Sox Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If only Chiefs running back Damien Williams could return for the playoffs. That’s where he’s done his most damage in a Chiefs uniform with 10 touchdowns in five games over two seasons. But he won’t be in uniform this season, electing to opt-out because of COVID-19. Chiefs beat writer Herbie Teope joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in breaking down the Williams’ decision and what it means for the Chiefs.Also, there was a reason why quarterback Patrick Mahomes landed at the No. 4 spot in the NFL’s list of top 100 players for 2019, and Teope explains why.After a break, you’ll hear from Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy. The Royals are about to conclude their season opening road trip and play the home opener—before no fans—on Friday. What’s going right and wrong for the Royals so far, and how did manager Mike Matheny settle on a second-year pro as his home opener starter.Story links:With COVID-19 swirling, Chiefs running back Damien Williams opts out of 2019 seasonHow could Patrick Mahomes be No. 4 in NFL’s top 100?Stellar early, KC’s Danny Duffy falters late as Tigers squeeze out 5-4 win over Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The newest member of the Kansas City Royals’ ownership group is ... Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Add that to the long and still growing list of accomplishments for the 24-year-old superstar.Let’s see ... first quarterback drafted by Chiefs in first round since 1983; NFL MVP in his first season as starter; Super Bowl MVP in his second; youngest member of an ownership group in Major League Baseball history.In today’s edition of our daily sports podcast, KC Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in a conversation about the news. What does this mean for the Royals and Mahomes’ long-term plans in Kansas City? And perhaps now, with a real stake in the team, Mahomes can light a fire under slow-starting shortstop Aldaberto Mondesi.Story links:Mahomes mania reaches another tier as he joins Royals’ ownership groupMahomes joins elite ranks of sports ownership, and he has to be the youngest, right?The Royals expectation for Mondesi in 2019 includes a Patrick Mahomes comparison Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some sports have been more successful at re-starting than others. Baseball is going through a rough patch now with about half of the Miami Marlins traveling party, mostly players, having contracted COVID-19 during the team’s opening series at Philadelphia. The outbreak has ripple effects with other games being postponed.It’s baseball’s nightmare scenario that hasn’t occurred in some other sports, like soccer, that have re-started in the U.S., or in other countries. So as pro and college football approach, is it time to ask—if behaviors don’t change and coronavirus numbers continue to climb in the U.S.—are the health risks worth continuing the re-start efforts?Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in the discussion. Carry on or cancel? Can you want sports to be played but raise the possibility of it being a bad idea? After a break, you’ll hear from Royals manager Mike Mathney and All-Star Whit Merrifield on how the Marlins’ news hit the Royals’ clubhouse on Monday.Story links:Royals: Marlins’ COVID outbreak bad for all of baseball, potentially devastatingFive Patriots players, including two starters, opt out of 2020 NFL season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs are working through health precautions and protocols as they report to training camp at the team facility at Arrowhead Stadium.The team says it’s doing everything right and is even somewhat of a model for the NFL. But safety concerns remain amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. On today’s episode of the daily SportsBeat KC podcast, you’ll hear from Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid and trainer Rick Burkholder on the Chiefs’ plans for getting through camp safely.Also, you’ll hear from beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell and Star columnist Vahe Gregorian on decision by Chiefs offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif to opt out this season and instead practice medicine in his native Quebec.Story links:Chiefs’ Rick Burkholder helped coordinate league wide COVID-19 protocolsChiefs’ Patrick Mahomes had most unusual off-season. But return to camp offers normalcyLaurent Duvernay-Tardif is a true hero for NFL. His opt-out makes world a better place Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve arrived at the latest opening day in baseball history. And now, the sprint is on.A 60-game regular season and the quest to land in an expanded Major League Baseball playoff bracket begins Friday night for the Kansas City Royals. On this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast you’ll hear from seven-time Gold Glove-winning outfielder Alex Gordon on what he believes is a more dangerous KC lineup this season.After a break, Royals play-by-play man Ryan Lefebvre explains how it’s all going to work in the booth this season. The Royals’ TV and radio crews will not travel to road games. But they won’t miss a moment of the action. They’ll be calling all the games from Kauffman Stadium. Lefebvre breaks down the unique challenges of such an arrangement.We’ll finish with sound from the first major sporting event in Kansas City since the shutdown in mid-March. You’ll hear how the Super Start Batteries 400 sounded, from the ‘Start your engines!” command bellowed by Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones to the final laps of the hotly contested NASCAR Cup race in KCK.The first busy sports weekend in Kansas City in more than four months has arrived, with the Royals’ season starting, Sporting KC facing Vancouver Sunday at 10 p.m. in the knockout round of the MLS is Back Tournament, continued racing at Kansas Speedway (ARCA, Xfinity and two trucks series races remain this weekend), and the Chiefs’ rookies reporting to camp.Follow coverage of all these events and more via kansascity.com and the SportsBeat KC podcast, as well as in the printed edition of The Kansas City Star newspaper!Story links:Royals release hype video ahead of 2020 openerRoyals roster is set, and Bubba Starling leads list of first timers on list of 30Hamlin is lights out in his third Cup win at Kansas Speedway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals played three exhibition games (“Summer Camp”) to tune up for Friday’s Opening Day against the Cleveland Indians, and there wasn’t much encouraging about those contests against the Astros and Cardinals. The Royals led for one inning in those three games, with pitchers having a difficult time commanding the strike zone.But those were exhibitions, their first games played since mid-March, and perhaps the Royals worked out the kinks. The 60-game season begins with Danny Duffy on the mound. He’s making his third career Opening Day start. Brady Singer, who pitched well last year in his first full minor-league season, gets the starting assignment in KC’s second game.Beat writer Lynn Worthy previews the 2020 Royalsin this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast with host Blair Kerkhoff. After a break, you’ll hear from Duffy, the team’s most experienced starting pitcher.Story links:Royals drop final exhibition game in wake of losing Jesse Hahn and Hunter DozierBrady Singer will make major league debut Saturday for Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City didn’t require a victory to advance in the MLS is Back Tournament. A draw would have done the trick, and even a loss might have sent them through. But Sporting left no doubt in a 2-0 triumph over Real Salt Lake in a match that started at 8 a.m. Wednesday morning.Before one minute had elapsed, Sporting was on the board thanks to Johnny Russell’s goal, and the rest of the game continued to break Kansas City’s way. On this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast, reporter Shaun Goodwin breaks down the game and what happens next in the tournament with host Blair Kerkhoff. Also, you’ll hear from coach Peter Vermes and some of the Sporting players.Story links:Russell’s early wakeup call helps propel Sporting KC on to MLS is Back knockout roundsFrom navigating COVID to keeping players hydrated, this man is crucial for Sporting KC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Big 12 Tournament at Sprint Center ended on March 11. The next major sporting event in Kansas City will happen 134 days later. The Super Start Battery 400 presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts at Kansas Speedway is Thursday. No fans will be in the stands for the race originally scheduled to run on May 31 but postponed because of the pandemic. But with five races over three days there will be some economic impact in the region.Kansas Speedway President Pat Warren chatted with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff about re-starting the action at the track and where the sport goes from here.After a break, we’ll continue the media conversation with Chiefs coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach. They spoke Monday during the Chris Jones contract extension news conference, and Veach addresses Jones’ value as a versatile player and Reid details the first few days of training camp.Story links:As NASCAR arrives in Kansas City, Richard Chlidress Racing may be discovering its magic of oldKansas Speedway makes call: No fans for July races due to COVID concernsStrange training camp at hand for Chiefs: These guys are going to be tested often Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, the Chiefs and Chris Jones announced a new four-year contract, and the deal is worth up to $85 million. On Monday, Jones, Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach spoke to the negotiation and signing that allowed the team to retain Jones on a long-term basis instead of a one-year franchise tag.Jones explains what the contract means to him, and Reid speaks to the importance of Jones to the defending Super Bowl champion. Veach digs down into the negotiation and how events like Patrick Mahomes’ contract and the coronavirus pandemic played a role in the process.Story links:Chiefs, Chris Jones agree to terms on four-year deal worth $85 million with $60 million guaranteedChiefs pay homage to liquor store clerk who broke news of Patrick Mahomes’ deal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The heightened sense of anticipation for Sporting KC’s opener made the loss last weekend feel like a gut-punch.Sporting surrendered two goals in extra time and fell to Minnesota 2-1. But onward we go in the MLS is Back Tournament. Sporting meets Colorado in Orlando Friday, and reporter Shaun Goodwin breaks down what must happen for SKC to return to the victory column on this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast with host Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, SKC coach Peter Vermes shares his thoughts on the next game, the previous one and what it’s been like for his team to live in the MLS bubble in Orlando. “We would be bored out of our minds if we were back in Kansas City just training every day with no goal, objective, in mind,” Vermes said.Story links:Sporting KC trio helps lead movement for change in how Black people are viewed, treatedWith new keeper in goal, Sporting KC must guard against a couple of things Friday night Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No one knows what major college football is look like this fall, or if there will be a college football season. Two conferences, the Big Ten and Pac-12, have eliminated non-conference games. Others are gathering more information. On SportsBeat KC, beat writers Kellis Robinett, Gary Bedore and Souichi Terada talk discuss how Kansas State, Kansas and Missouri are handling the COVID-19 pandemic and what may be next.After a break, we steal Kellis’ idea of naming the most successful professional athletes who attended those schools. Topping the Kansas State list was Hall of Fame basketball player Mitch RIchmond with star running back Darren Sproles second. Who were the best future pros at Missouri and Kansas? We discuss.Story links:K-State Countdown: Ranking the top 10 professional athletes in Wildcats historyMizzou football’s Eli Drinkwitz has a simple message for fans: Wear a maskSelf: KU hoop players’ arrival delayed two weeks because of spiking COVID-19 cases around the country Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals are another day closer to Opening Day and getting a little healthier. Catcher Salvador Perez participated in his first scrimmage on Tuesday and singled in his first at-bat. There will be three exhibition games in three days starting on Monday before the regular-season opener Friday.Beat writer Lynn Worthy and Star columnist Sam Mellinger join Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC to talk baseball and how the Royals are shaping up for the shortened season. After a break you’ll hear from pitcher Tim Hill, a left reliever who despite health concerns, decided not to opt out on the season.Story links:Salvador Perez rejoins Royals’ camp after being cleared of COVID-19https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article244232232.htmlDanny Duffy will start Royals’ season opener for third time in his careerhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article244224172.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It happened with a day to spare. Chris Jones remains a member of the Kansas City Chiefs with news that he and his camp agreed to a four-year deal Tuesday worth up to $85 million. The deadline to get a long-term deal done was Wednesday.Thus, the Chiefs’ tremendous offseason continues, and the A-Team of Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell, Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian join host Blair Kerkhoff to break down the news on this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast.After a break, you’ll hear why Jones is one of the most popular players in the locker room.Story links:Chiefs, Chris Jones agree to terms on four-year deal worth $85 million, with $60 million guaranteedChris Jones has emerged as Chiefs star. But there’s tension back home in MIssissippi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, Washington’s NFL team announced it was dropping the nickname “Redskins.” Other teams with Native American-related nicknames are examining their imagery and branding. The Kansas City Chiefs have made no statement about this, but Star columnist Vahe Gregorian spoke to college professors who are Native Americans about this topic. As one of the professors said “That’s probably the most hurtful thing. That people don’t want to pay attention to what we have to say.”On SportsBeat KC, Gregorian chats with host Blair Kerkhoff about how the column came about and the reaction to it. After a break, you’ll hear from Sporting KC Coach Peter Vermes, who met with the media following the team’s heart-breaking 2-1 loss to Minnesota in the MLS is Back Tournament opener on Sunday.Story links:It’s time for the Chiefs to diffuse the cultural offenses they enable and reflecthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article244153762.htmlSporting KC blows 1-0 lead, loses starting keeper, loses to Minnesota 2-1 on two late goalshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article244181062.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Soccer is the first professional team sport to return to action in the U.S., and Sporting KC gets back into action on Sunday against Minnesota. All Major League Soccer games are being played in Orlando, and re-starting competition isn’t the only message from the players.A group called Black Players for Change, which include’s Sporting’s Khiry Shelton, made its first public demonstration before Wednesday’s first game in the MLS is Back Tournament. More than 170 players participated, some wearing “Silence is Violence” T-shirts, took part in the pregame protest. Sporting is expected to deliver a message before its opening game.In a press conference setting in Orlando, Shelton, Matt Besler and Sporting KC coach Peter Vermes spoke to the re-start and demonstrations, as did Star beat writer Shaun Goodwin on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Sporting KC has set up camp at for MLS is Back, ready to playKansas City’s bid takes next step to bring 2026 World Cup to heart of North America Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas City Royals are nearly one week into their restart, and they’ve hit a few snags along the way. Three front-line players have tested positive for COVID-19. But unlike other major league teams, there have been no opt-outs among the Royals, and new manager Mike Mathney said the team is taking the right approach into the season.Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy has attended this week’s scrimmages and breaks down the re-start on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. You’ll also hear from Whit Merrifield on why he believed it was important to return this season when other major league players have chosen to sit out, and from Matheny on why he believes the Royals are built for a short season sprint.Story links:Why the Royals are looking at this 60-game season as a “chance to do something special”Two more Royals players test positive for COVID-19 coronavirus, joining Salvador PerezWhit Merrifield said he had an obligation to his KC Royals family despite pandemic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A topic that had been bubbling nationally for the past week or so was disrupted in Kansas City when Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes signed a 10-year contract extension on Monday. But sports nicknames that are based in Native American heritage is back on the table.The Washington Redskins and Cleveland Indians are considering changes. What kind of conversation should the Chiefs be having?Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian join host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, to discuss how we got here, what changes the Chiefs should consider, what is the potential pushback, how the colleges have been ahead of the pros on this issue, and project what we might see from the teams.Story links:Redskins, Indians considering name changes. Is it time for the Chiefs to make a change?How an offensive sign rekindled better relations between Chiefs, Native Americans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, they bought champagne, posed for photographs and signed the paperwork. On Tuesday, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes talked about the richest contract in U.S. sports history, along with head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach. SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, has the entire conversation, including a few questions at the end posed by comedian David Koechner.Mahomes speaks to why he sought to sign a lengthy deal. Veach details how the contract came together and when the process started. Reid explains what signing the quarterback who has won an MVP award and Super Bowl in his first two years as a starter means for his future.Story links:“A perfect place for me:” Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City have always been ideal marriageMellinger Minutes: On Patrick Mahomes’ money, sports and the virus. Plus Chris JonesPatrick Mahomes’ current and former teammates were thrilled for him Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He’s now the half-billion dollar athlete.The Kansas City Chiefs announced at contract extension for Patrick Mahomes on Monday, a new deal that folds in the final two years of his rookie contract and tacks on 10 more for a total of $503 million. This makes Mahomes the highest paid athlete in sports.What does this mean for the Chiefs going forward like the future of Andy Reid, the contract of Chris Jones? We cover the entire field on SportsBeat KC with Chiefs beat writer Herbie Teope, columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian and host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Chiefs, Mahomes strike 10-year, half-billion deal, richest contract in pro sports historyMahomes new deal is a record, and the Chiefs have been right about him every stepPatrick Mahomes’ 10-year contract is the best sports news for any team, anywhere latelyPatrick Mahomes breathes the rarified financial air of the highest paid athlete in the worldChiefs fans are thrilled by the news of Patrick Mahomes’ monster contract extensionA liquor story employee scooped everyone on Patrick Mahomes’ extension with the Chiefs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chris Jones story took another twist this week with his tweet that hints of his sitting out the 2020 season instead of playing on the franchise tag. Jones dropped the name Le’Veon Bell, the running back to sat out the 2018 season, declining to play for the Steelers when the used a franchise tag on him for a second straight year.On SportsBeat KC, Chiefs beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell break down the Jones’ contract situation and cover other topics like the reduced preseason schedule, who is also up for new contracts by next year and how Chiefs and other NFL players are handling the potential for increased injuries after not working out together as a team in the spring.Story links:Chiefs fans have mixed reaction to Chris Jones’ threat to sit out the 2020 seasonNFL to cue preseason in half. Here’s what that would mean for the ChiefsChiefs’ Sammy Watkins, Tanoh Kpassagnon among notable players entering contract year Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas State joined the growing list of college football programs to take a stand against racism when the team threatened a boycott in response to a crude social media post that mocked the killing of George Floyd by a white Minneapolis police officer. The university and the athletic department posted action plans on Thursday that include social justice programs.On Sportsbeat KC, K-State beat writer Kellis Robinett breaks down the series of events that started less than a week ago, starting with the student’s post, the football team’s reaction and that of university president Gen. Richard Myers. Also, we look at what’s happening at other college football programs around the nation.Story links:“We cannot violate the law:” Kansas State won’t expel student who made racist tweetJune 2020 will go down as month of college football activism....and social changeAfter his own experiences with racism, Zac Diles supports K-State football boycott Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices