By Don Stone, KennesawStateSports.com, FootballAtlanta.com
UT Martin’s offensive approach will center around a balanced attack. The Skyhawks have shown the ability to move the ball through the air with Sheron at quarterback, while also featuring a strong ground game led by Patrick Smith. Establishing the run early could open up play-action opportunities and keep the KSU defense off-balance.
Defensively, the Skyhawks will need to focus on containing Kennesaw State’s rushing attack. In their previous game, UT Martin’s run defense was effective, allowing just 15 yards on 30 carries. The Owls normally proficient run game has struggled. Replicating this performance could force the Owls into uncomfortable passing situations.
For Kennesaw State, the key will be finding offensive consistency. The Owls have struggled to put points on the board, averaging just 12 points per game through their first three contests. Establishing a rhythm early and controlling the clock with their running game could be crucial in keeping UT Martin’s offense off the field.
Defensively, KSU will need to shore up their pass defense, which has been vulnerable in previous games. Limiting big plays and forcing UT Martin into third-and-long situations will be essential for Kennesaw State to stay competitive.
What It Means
This game represents an opportunity for both teams to gain momentum as they approach the midpoint of their seasons. For UT Martin, a win would even their record at 2-2 and provide a confidence boost before entering conference play. Kennesaw State, meanwhile, is hungry for its first victory as an FBS program. A win against the Skyhawks would be a significant milestone in the Owls’ transition to the higher level of competition.
Interestingly, UT Martin’s head coach, Jason Simpson, was complaining about how facing KSU as an FBS team was not what they signed up for at the time the Owls were still at the FCS level.
“Now, they’re at 85 scholarships compared to 63. I don’t know that that’s anybody’s fault. But, you need to write those contracts tighter to benefit your program.”
The betting markets slightly favor UT Martin in this matchup, with a predicted score of 21-10 in favor of the Skyhawks. However, given Kennesaw State’s home-field advantage, this game could be closer than anticipated.
The two teams have meet once before on the football field. On November 5, 2022, KSU won in Tennessee 44-27.
Fans can catch all the action at Fifth Third Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 6:00 PM. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.
