By Don Stone, KennesawStateSports.com, FootballAtlanta.com
Kennesaw State’s bid for a Conference USA championship took a hit Saturday night in Jacksonville, as the Owls fell 35-26 to Jacksonville State (7-3, 6-0 CUSA). Despite a strong offensive showing, the loss leaves KSU—coached by Jerry Mack—with a record of 7-3 overall and 5-1 in conference play, needing to win their last two games to secure a spot in the Conference USA title game.
Quarterback Omari Odom led the Owls with 357 total yards but the difference in the game was the four interceptions he threw that stalled potential scoring drives and proved costly in a closely contested battle. Kennesaw State managed to rally late, adding 13 points in the fourth quarter, but were unable to overcome Jacksonville State’s balanced attack and defensive pressure.
The Gamecocks, powered by quarterback Caden Creel and running back Cam Cook’s combined 252 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, controlled much of the game tempo and held their undefeated conference record at 6-0.
The loss ended KSU’s seven game winning streak.
Mack acknowledged the challenge ahead. “We fought hard, but turnovers and penalties kept us from finishing,” he said. “Now every game is a must-win. We have to focus on the next two with everything we’ve got.”
With two regular season games remaining, including crucial conference matchups, KSU will need a clean sweep to advance to the championship game. The Owls’ remaining schedule tests their resilience and ability to limit mistakes in high-stakes moments as they strive to keep their title hopes alive.
The test begins Saturday with the last home game of the season against a good Missouri State team who is 7-3 and 5-1 in conference. They close out the regular season at Liberty (4-6, 3-3). Kickoff at Fifth Third Stadium is 2:00 p.m. Unfortunately, it’s another ESPN+ game that you have to pay to watch.