By Don Stone, KennesawStateSports.com, FootballAtlanta.com
Kennesaw State will close out its home slate at Fifth Third Stadium on Saturday, November 22, with a high-stakes Conference USA clash against Missouri State. Both teams carry 7-3 overall records and 5-1 league marks, making this matchup pivotal for the CUSA title race and bowl positioning.
The Owls come into their Senior Day looking to bounce back from a 35-26 loss at Jacksonville State that snapped a seven-game win streak. Head coach Jerry Mack has urged his team to keep their focus. “It’s all about how you respond,” Mack said this week. “This group has shown resilience all year, and finishing strong at home is what we’re aiming for.” Quarterback Amari Odom will be central to that effort; Odom has thrown for over 1,500 yards and accounted for 13 total touchdowns this season but will look to rebound after a tough outing last week that included three game changing interceptions.
“This is a team that believes in one another and knows what’s at stake,” Mack added. “Missouri State is physical and well-coached. We have to match their energy and execute our game plan—especially on third downs and in the red zone.”
Kennesaw State boasts one of Conference USA’s top scoring defenses and is averaging 31.2 points per game in league play, while Odom’s versatility as a passer and runner provides a spark.
On the other sideline, the Bears ride momentum from a 38-24 win over UTEP and boast significant balance on offense. They are on a five game winning streak. Saturday’s contest will not only decide crucial conference positioning, but also serve as a chance for Kennesaw State’s seniors—and their home fans—to leave a lasting mark on the 2025 season.
A player to keep an eye on is quarterback Jacob Clark. The senior was named Conference USA Offensive Player of the Week. The Bears signal caller set a program record with 30 pass completions in Saturday’s home win over UTEP, completing 30-of-39 tosses for 330 yards with no interceptions and 4 touchdowns. His 76.9 completion percentage was a season high. He also picked up the Manning Award for National QB of Week.
Kickoff is Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and with so much on the line, all eyes will be on Kennesaw as the Owls try to soar into the postseason on a high note. Unfortunately, you have to pay to watch with the game only available on ESPN+.