SportsBeat KC

As we approach Week 1 of the college football season, eligibility remains a major topic.
Used to be, these things were settled long before the season began, but as Missouri Tigers coach Eli Drinkwitz said last week, the eligibility system is an “absolute embarrassment” and a “complete clown show” as players are using the courtrooms to get injunctions to play.
On the field, the 2026 season arrives this week, too, with the Tigers, Kansas State and Kansas all opening at home. Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell preview the season and try to make sense of what’s happening with the sport.
Also, actor Brendan Hunt discusses his role as Coach Beard on the popular TV series “Ted Lasso.” Hunt was in town recently to accept an award on behalf of Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis and shared thoughts on his career and filming this season’s first episode in Kansas City.
Then, Chiefs beat writer Pete Sweeney breaks down the team’s cuts and waiver-wire acquisitions to finalize a 53-man roster ahead of KC’s Sept. 14 opener against the Denver Broncos.
SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.

SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM) features coming attractions with the Royals and Chiefs.
Columnist Sam McDowell breaks down city council’s approval of funding for the Royals proposed ballpark at Crown Center. Financial questions remain about project, which could end up costing taxpayers some $600 million.
Later, beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Vahe Gregorian discuss the next moves for the Chiefs after their preseason loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Roster decisions loom for the Chiefs. Which will be the most difficult choices for the coaching staff?
SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.

The preseason has started and training camp at Missouri Western is winding down. Did the Chiefs maximize their time in St. Joseph?
On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnist Vahe Gregorian share their thoughts from KC’s preseason-opening loss to the L.A. Rams — and what must be accomplished in the second exhibition game.
The Chiefs visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday.
After a break in this week’s episode, I’ll share what’s on my radar in Kansas City sports, including the impact of returning Royals and where Missouri football is getting some preseason love.
SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.

Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to play, and other starters might sit out the preseason opener. But there will be plenty to see and evaluate when the Kansas City Chiefs meet the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium.
Backup quarterbacks Justin Fields and Garrett Nussmeier figure to get the bulk of the snaps, at least early, and the performances among newcomers at running back and the defensive interior will be among the biggest curiosities.
Beat writer Pete Sweeney and columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian share what’s on their checklists for Saturday on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM).
Later, I’ll share what’s on my radar in Kansas City sports this week, including the Royals slugger who tied a team record and a television program that wrapped its loving arms around Kansas City sports in its season debut.
SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.

Chiefs training camp doesn’t really begin until the pads come on. It’s the first time to evaluate linemen and most defensive players. So who’s looking good?
Chiefs insider Pete Sweeney and columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian break down what they’ve seen at camp on SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM).
Tackle Josh Simmons and rookie defensive lineman Peter Woods have made solid early impressions, but injuries to receivers Xavier Worthy and Cyrus Allen have put a damper on things.
Also, the baseball trade deadline has come and gone. How did the Royals do? Stick around and I’ll tell you what’s on my radar in Kansas City sports.
SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It’s produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.