By Garin Turner — SkyBoat.org
Kennesaw State’s rise in the FBS ranks took another major step forward as the Owls defeated Jacksonville State 19–15 to claim the Conference USA Championship. In just their second year at the FBS level, the Owls improved to 10–3 behind a poised performance from quarterback Amari Odom and a defense that delivered when the game tightened late.
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How It Happened
Kennesaw State controlled the early tempo, grinding out yards and winning the field-position battle. The Owls struck first — and for a long time, the only points of the first half — on a three-yard touchdown run by Coleman Bennett.
That 7–0 lead held through a defensive slugfest, and Kennesaw State extended the margin in the third quarter with a field goal, pushing the score to 10–0. Minutes later, the Owls added a safety to make it 12–0, capitalizing on Jacksonville State’s offensive miscues.
The Gamecocks finally broke through when Cam Cook punched in a one-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to 12–7. Jacksonville State then surged ahead in the fourth quarter as quarterback Caden Creel broke loose for a 19-yard touchdown run, giving JSU a 13–12 advantage.
But Kennesaw State delivered the championship moment when it mattered most.
With under a minute to play, Odom floated an 11-yard strike to Navelle Dean in the corner of the end zone, reclaiming the lead 19–15. Jacksonville State mounted one final drive but turned the ball over on downs, sealing the Owls’ historic title.
While Jacksonville State dominated the run game with a 210–72 advantage, Kennesaw State countered through the air, outgaining the Gamecocks 246–96. Penalties also loomed large, with Jacksonville State committing seven infractions for 72 costly yards.
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Kennesaw State Team Leaders
Passing: Amari Odom — 26/32, 246 yards, 1 TD
Rushing: Coleman Bennett — 17 carries, 82 yards, 1 TD
Receiving: Christian Moss — 5 receptions, 75 yards
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Jacksonville State Team Leaders
Passing: Caden Creel — 12/21, 96 yards, 1 INT
Rushing: Caden Creel — 18 carries, 112 yards, 1 TD
Receiving: Deondre Johnson — 4 receptions, 59 yards
Jacksonville State also tallied five sacks, led by Mac Sanders (1.5) with Talan Carter, Darrell Prater, and Malcolm Jones each recording one. Walker O’Steen added a half-sack.
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What’s Next
Both teams now turn their attention to Selection Sunday, where bowl destinations and matchups will be finalized. For Kennesaw State, the win represents a milestone moment in their FBS journey — and potentially the start of an even bigger postseason opportunity.
