Owls Face Struggles as Blue Raiders Search for Defensive Identity
Kennesaw State Owls Struggle as Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Seek Defensive Solutions in Conference USA Clash
In a matchup of teams searching for answers, the Kennesaw State Owls (0-5, 0-1 CUSA) travel to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to take on the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (1-5, 0-2 CUSA) in a Tuesday night showdown at Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium. Both teams are reeling from recent losses, with Kennesaw State falling 63-24 to Jacksonville State and Middle Tennessee suffering a 48-21 defeat at the hands of Louisiana Tech. As both squads look to turn their seasons around, this game is crucial for their Conference USA campaigns.
Kennesaw State’s Offensive Struggles
The Kennesaw State Owls have had a difficult start to the season, averaging just 14.6 points and 226.8 total yards of offense per game, ranking them 130th and 133rd in the nation, respectively. Their ground game has been particularly ineffective, generating only 96.2 rushing yards per game (119th nationally) and 130.6 passing yards (129th). Quarterback Davis Bryson has thrown for 616 yards this season, but his two touchdowns are overshadowed by his six interceptions.
Running back Michael Benefield leads the team in rushing with 194 yards and one touchdown, while Qua Ashely has been the top target in the passing game, accumulating 131 receiving yards. Tight end Carson Kent stands out as the only player with touchdown receptions for the Owls, scoring twice this season.
Defensively, Kennesaw State has not fared much better, allowing an average of 36.0 points and 429.6 yards per game, placing them 121st and 115th nationally. The Owls struggle against both the run and the pass, yielding 186.3 rushing yards (121st) and 243.4 passing yards (99th) per game. Defensive back Milon Jones leads the team with 32 tackles, while linebacker Donelius Johnson has contributed with 2.0 sacks. Overall, Kennesaw State has recorded only one interception this season, highlighting their defensive deficiencies.
Middle Tennessee’s Quest for Offensive and Defensive Solutions
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders are also searching for answers, averaging 16.8 points and 343.8 total yards of offense per game, ranking 123rd and 106th nationally. While their passing game shows some promise, with Nicholas Vattiato throwing for 1,561 yards and seven touchdowns, the Blue Raiders have struggled on the ground, averaging a mere 76.8 rushing yards (129th). Vattiato has been under duress this season, suffering 17 sacks, which has hampered his ability to produce consistently.
In the rushing department, Jaiden Credle leads with 253 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing an average of 4.7 yards per carry. On the receiving end, Omari Kelly has emerged as a key player, catching 32 passes for 574 yards and averaging 17.9 yards per reception. Kelly has also found the end zone three times, providing a spark for the struggling offense.
Defensively, Middle Tennessee has faced significant challenges, allowing an average of 40.5 points and 488.5 total yards per game, ranking 130th and 128th in the nation. The Blue Raiders’ defense is porous against both the run and the pass, giving up 167.8 rushing yards (97th) and a staggering 320.7 passing yards (134th) per game. Safety John Howse leads the team with 33 tackles, while defensive end Brandon Buckner has recorded 2.0 sacks. Howse also has both of the team’s interceptions, but overall, the defense has struggled to make impactful plays.
Conclusion
With both teams eager for a breakthrough, this matchup represents an opportunity for Kennesaw State and Middle Tennessee to begin reversing their fortunes. The Owls will need to find a way to ignite their stagnant offense while tightening their defense. Conversely, the Blue Raiders must address their offensive inconsistencies and defensive woes if they hope to secure a victory at home. As they prepare to face each other, the stakes are high for both programs in this critical Conference USA encounter.
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