Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have reached the precipice of the No. 1 seed in the AFC with a nine-game winning streak that includes some heavy hitters with Super Bowl aspirations of their own. But while records alone suggest the Chiefs finally get a breather to finish off the regular-season, facing the losing Falcons and Chargers, both Kansas City coach Andy Reid and Atlanta counterpart Raheem Morris are in agreement that Sunday’s game could be far tighter than the more-than-10-point spread.

UNDATED (AP) — For several NFL stars, speaking out against social injustice meant speaking to youngsters who have experienced racism. Travis Kelce, Derrick Henry, Tyler Lockett and Calais Campbell each spent time this season chatting with students about a film that focuses on social and emotional effects of racism against Black men and boys. The documentary titled “Black Boys” was executive produced by Malcolm Jenkins. The players joined students in virtual class discussions about the film’s exploration identity, opportunity and equity in America.

UNDATED (AP) — Iowa State has The Associated Press Big 12 offensive and defensive players of the year and the league’s top coach. The awards come after the Cyclones’ best conference season ever. Running back Breece Hall is the unanimous choice for top offensive player with his league-best 130 yards rushing per game and 19 touchdowns. Linebacker Mike Rose was selected the top defender with his 90 tackles and four interceptions that are both tied for the league lead. Iowa State was 8-1 in Big 12 play in the regular season, a school record for conference wins.

UNDATED (AP) — After a couple of high-profile Big 12 games during the first true week of conference play, the Big 12 steps back for a long break over the holidays. Nobody has a game until Tuesday, when a handful of teams play non-league games. All of them should be easy wins for the Big 12, though Kansas State may be most vulnerable in its game against Omaha.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — College basketball teams are accustomed to being busy through the holidays and missing family gatherings. This pandemic-altered season feels even more isolated. Campuses are largely empty. There are few if any fans inside the arenas. The Big Ten scheduled four games on Christmas Day. Wisconsin plays Michigan State, Maryland faces Purdue, Michigan visits Nebraska and Iowa takes on Minnesota. Programs across the country have attempted to ramp up mental health support at a time when the potential for anxiety or loneliness has spiked for players along with the rest of society.