By Don Stone, KennesawStateSports.com, FootballAtlanta.com
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders will visit Kennesaw State at Fifth Third Stadium on September 27 for the Owls’ first Conference USA matchup of the 2025 season. It’s also KSU’s Homecoming game. The Owls look to continue their momentum from a strong start to the season.
Head coach Jerry Mack said in his weekly press conference, “Playing Middle Tennessee is a big opportunity for us to showcase how far we’ve come. We respect their program, but our team is focused on executing our game plan and feeding off the energy of the home crowd.”
He emphasized the importance of home field advantage, noting, “Fifth Third Stadium always brings the intensity, and our fans create a great atmosphere that really motivates the team.”
Middle Tennessee also comes into the game with determination after splitting their early games. Their own Homecoming Game was last weekend and it didn’t go so well as they fell to Marshall 42-28.
The Blue Raider quarterback, Nicholas Vattiato, has thrown for over 3,000 yards and 16 touchdowns this season, showing the MTSU’s offensive firepower. KSU’s Defensive Coordinator, Marc Mattioli, noted, “Limiting Vattiato and putting pressure on their passing game is key. We’ll be doing everything we can to disrupt their rhythm.”
Kennesaw State Redshirt senior QB Amari Odom was named Conference USA Offensive Player of the Week after setting program record for most total offense in a single game with 409 yards (308 passing, 101 rushing) in last week’s win over Arkansas State. Redshirt senior wide receiver Gabriel Benyard became the first CUSA player this season to have multiple 100 yard receiving games with 114 Saturday along with a 54 yard TD catch. Right Guard, senior OL JT Pennington also got conference honors as Offensive Lineman of the Week.
The game promises to be a hard-fought battle as Kennesaw State celebrates Homecoming with a “Wear Gold” theme encouraging fans to pack the stands. The university is providing shuttle service between campuses to make attendance easier for all fans.
This will be a pivotal game in the Owls’ conference schedule, setting the tone for their season moving forward. Fans can expect an energetic showdown at Fifth Third Stadium on Saturday when KSU looks to defend home turf against the Blue Raiders.
Kickoff is 6:00 p.m. and can be seen on ESPN+.