By Don Stone, KennesawStateSports.com, FootballAtlanta.com
Kennesaw State kept its Conference USA championship hopes alive with a thrilling 41-34 victory over Missouri State on Saturday at Fifth Third Stadium. The Owls’ dynamic offense, led by quarterback Amari Odom, delivered a late-game push that proved decisive as both rival contenders—Jacksonville State and Western Kentucky—fell in their respective matchups.
Odom was the star of the game, throwing for 387 yards and five touchdowns while also rushing for a touchdown. “We knew this was going to be a battle, but we believed in each other. Our coaches kept us focused, and we made the plays when it mattered most,” Odom said after the win. His connection with receivers like Chase Belcher, who caught the game-winning 14-yard touchdown pass with just 27 seconds left, was critical in sealing the outcome.
The Owls overcame a late surge from Missouri State, which gained 535 yards in total and tied the game late before KSU pulled away in the final minute.
The victory moves the Owls to 8-2 overall and 6-1 in conference play, firmly putting them in contention for the Conference USA championship as the regular season nears its end. Kennesaw State now prepares for a critical final week with the opportunity to clinch their spot in the title game depending on upcoming results.
KSU’s balanced attack and clutch defensive plays under pressure showed why they remain one of Conference USA’s top teams, continuing a season marked by competitiveness and growth.
The last regular season game is Saturday on the road at Liberty (4-7, 3-4 CUSA). Kickoff is 3:30 p.m. televised nationally on the CBS Sports Network. There may be some scoreboard watching as the Gamecocks and Hilltoppers face each other at 2:00 p.m.