By Garin Turner
The Kennesaw State Owls (9-3, 7-1 Conference) face the Jacksonville State Gamecocks (8-4, 7-1 Conference) on Friday December 5 at 7 PM EST on CBSSN for the Conference USA Championship.
Second meeting this year
Jacksonville State handed Kennesaw State its lone loss in the conference back on November 15, 35-26. Cam Cook had 27 carries for 132 yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Caden Creel ran 14 times for 127 yards and two scores for the Gamecocks. Creel also went 8/13 for 137 yards passing.
Deondre Johnson had two catches for 112 yards and a score. It was a rough game for both Owl quarterbacks. Amari Odom went 19/31 for 248 yards but threw three interceptions. He also fumbled the ball, but it was recovered by his team. Odom did score a touchdown on the ground and finished with 51 yards on 12 carries. Dexter Williams II was 8/13 for 114 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He added another touchdown on the ground as well.
What’s at stake (Besides the Conference USA Championship)
For Kennesaw State, a win would enhance the remarkable turnaround this year. Last season was its first in the FBS, and now its second year in, it is going to a bowl game and has a chance to win the conference championship. A win would also avenge the loss from earlier this season and would give the Owls 10 wins. A loss would be disappointing, but there’s still a lot to play for.
For Jacksonville State, a win would prove twice that they’re the better team. It’s hard to beat the same time twice in a season. A win would also set up the Gamecocks for a chance to win 10 games if they win their bowl game as well.
Keys to the game
Can Kennesaw State limit the turnovers? Despite the interceptions, Kennesaw State only lost by nine points. Will Jacksonville State be able to run the ball again? The Gamecocks ran for 259 yards and three touchdowns.
Kennesaw State Team Leaders
Passing: Amari Odom, 2,139 yards with 17 touchdowns and six interceptions.
Rushing: Coleman Bennett, 131 carries for 634 yards and three touchdowns.
Receiving: Gabriel Benyard, 54 catches for 877 yards and nine touchdowns.
Jacksonville State Team Leaders
Passing: Caden Creel, 1,245 yards, eight touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Rushing: Cam Cook, 276 carries for 1,581 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Receiving: Deondre Johnson, 20 catches for 564 yards and six touchdowns.
Prediction
Jacksonville State runs the ball well, but Kennesaw State limits the turnovers and does just enough to become Conference USA Champs 28-24.
