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

UNDATED (AP) — No. 19 Iowa’s hopes of a run at a playoff spot were dashed last weekend in a late loss at Penn State. The Hawkeyes can still win the Big Ten West if they win out and if Wisconsin loses one more time. The Hawkeyes have a daunting road ahead, starting with Saturday’s visit to Purdue. That is followed by a home game against division-leading Northwestern.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State freshman quarterback Brock Purdy has played so well so quickly that sophomore Zeb Noland has already decided to play elsewhere. A shakeup caused by Purdy’s progression is a good problem for the Cyclones to have. But it’s still a problem. Noland intends to transfer and that leaves Iowa State thin behind Purdy at quarterback. The Cyclones visit Kansas on Saturday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jason Hammel’s $12 million mutual option has been declined by the Kansas City Royals, who will pay the 36-year-old right-hander a $2 million buyout. Hammel set a career high for losses, going 4-14 with a 6.02 ERA in 18 starts and 21 relief appearances. He was dropped from the rotation in early July after losing six straight starts. He agreed to a $16 million, two-year contract before the 2017 season and went 12-27.