Kennesaw State’s Owls are set to play their final Conference USA home game of the 2024 season against Florida International (FIU) on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 3 p.m. The matchup at Fifth Third Stadium will air on ESPN+. Here’s what to watch as the Owls look to close their home campaign on a high note.
How to Watch Florida International vs. Kennesaw State
- When: Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Fifth Third Stadium in Kennesaw, Georgia
- Live stream: ESPN
Key to Victory: Force the Panthers to Pass
FIU’s offense revolves around sophomore quarterback Keyone Jenkins, who has been an effective playmaker. Jenkins has racked up over 2,000 passing yards with 16 touchdowns through the air and two on the ground, though he has thrown seven interceptions. While the Panthers boast the fourth-best passing attack in Conference USA, their ground game is one of the league’s weakest.
FIU has yet to see a running back eclipse the 100-yard mark in a single game this season. Their struggles on the ground have led to a conference-worst third-down conversion rate, successfully converting just 36 of 119 attempts.
This mismatch plays into KSU’s strength, as the Owls feature the fourth-ranked rushing defense in the conference and are tied for first in forced fumbles with 10. By shutting down the Panthers’ run game, the Owls can make FIU one-dimensional and more vulnerable to defensive pressure.
Owls Look to Keep Scoring Streak Alive
Kennesaw State’s offense has found its rhythm in the latter half of the season. Quarterback Davis Bryson has accounted for six touchdowns over the last five games, while return specialist Qua Ashley has been electric on special teams, becoming one of only three players in college football with multiple kickoff return touchdowns this year.
Redshirt senior Michael Benefield has been a model of consistency, scoring a rushing touchdown in four straight games. The Owls have averaged 23 points per game since their upset win over the Liberty Flames, highlighted by a season-high 35-point explosion against UTEP.
This game also marks Senior Day, adding emotional stakes as the Owls aim to send their seniors off with a win in their final home game at Fifth Third Stadium.
Defensive Stars Shine for KSU
The Owls’ defense has been a force this season, excelling in forcing turnovers and piling up tackles. Linebacker Donelius Johnson has been a standout, with 30 tackles over his last two games, including 15 stops, a sack, and 1.5 tackles for loss against Sam Houston.
Outside linebacker Sidney Porter and defensive back JeRico Washington Jr. also shined against Sam Houston. Porter tallied eight tackles, while Washington added seven and notched his first career interception. Linebacker Garland Benyard joins Johnson as a key pass-rushing threat, with both players leading the team in sacks.
Defensive coordinator Greg Harris has relied on aggressive blitz packages this season, and the strategy will be crucial against FIU. If the Owls can maintain their disruptive form, they’ll have a strong chance of keeping the Panthers in check.
Final Outlook
With momentum on their side and a determined defense, the Owls are well-positioned to finish their home schedule on a high note. If the offense continues its late-season surge and the defense can force FIU into predictable situations, KSU has every reason to believe it can secure a victory and give its seniors a memorable sendoff.
