Preview: Louisiana Tech vs. Kennesaw State – Thursday Night Showdown on ESPNU, Ice Cream Index favoring an upset
KENNESAW, GA — The midweek college football spotlight shines brightly on Fifth Third Bank Stadium this Thursday, October 9, as the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (4–1, 2–0 CUSA) visit the Kennesaw State Owls (3–2, 1–0 CUSA) for a pivotal Conference USA clash. With both teams boasting strong records and aspirations for a conference title, this matchup promises to be a thrilling one on Thursday night!
The CUSA clash marks the beginning of a stretch where college football dominates the airwaves every day through Thanksgiving weekend. From NFL primetime showdowns to college football clashes and postseason baseball, it’s a sports fan’s paradise. And it all kicks off with this intriguing matchup between the Bulldogs and the Owls.
Team Profiles and Season Overview
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (4–1, 2–0 CUSA)
Under the leadership of head coach Sonny Cumbie, Louisiana Tech has been a formidable force in Conference USA. Their offense, led by quarterback Blake Baker, has been efficient and explosive. Baker has thrown for over 600 yards and multiple touchdowns, while running back Clay Thevenin provides balance in the backfield, averaging 4.8 yards per carry and contributing to both the ground game and the passing attack.
Defensively, the Bulldogs have been stout, allowing an average of just 13.6 points per game. Their defensive line, anchored by senior defensive end Kolbe Fields, has been disruptive, recording multiple sacks and tackles for loss.
Kennesaw State Owls (3–2, 1–0 CUSA)
Kennesaw State, led by head coach Jerry Mack, has been a rising star in college football. The Owls’ triple-option offense continues to be effective and difficult to defend. Quarterback Amari Odom has been efficient, passing for over 750 yards and contributing to the running game when needed. Running backs Coleman Bennett and Alexander Diggs have been dynamic, each averaging over 5 yards per carry and combining for multiple rushing touchdowns.
Defensively, Kennesaw State has shown improvement, allowing an average of 22.6 points per game. The defensive line, led by senior defensive tackle Baron Hopson, has been effective against the run, while the secondary has shown growth in pass coverage.
Sagarin Subtraction Method Analysis
Utilizing the Sagarin ratings, Louisiana Tech is currently ranked 78th with a rating of 67.54, while Kennesaw State is ranked 153rd with a rating of 54.08. The raw difference between the two teams is:
67.54 (Louisiana Tech) – 54.08 (Kennesaw State) = 13.46 points
Applying the standard home-field advantage adjustment of +4.99 points for Kennesaw State, the adjusted ratings become:
Louisiana Tech: 67.54
Kennesaw State: 54.08 + 4.99 = 59.07
Adjusted margin: 67.54 (Louisiana Tech) – 59.07 (Kennesaw State) = 8.47 points in favor of the Bulldogs.
The computer models suggest that Louisiana Tech holds a pretty strong edge, but this game is pretty far from Ruston.
All of the home-field advantage benefits are there for Kennesaw State does narrow the gap significantly, as do the in-game theatrics and the notion of avoiding Fifth Third yellow in the seats.
The Owls have been covering like crazy as of late, doing so in three of their first four games. Kennesaw State continues to over-perform expectations and should have a win over Wake Forest. The other loss? Oh, just Indiana on the road.
Now… let’s get bold! Mid-week games are known for chaos, especially at the Group of Five level.
This pick may have a bit of bias, as I am going to the game and wishcasting an instant classic. However, I truly believe KSU has been battle tested and knows what it takes for Thursday night, under the lights.
The Wake Forest and Indiana games prepared Mack’s bunch. Now, the CUSA moment awaits.
Give me the Owls at home! They’re going to party on down to midtown after this one!
“We are the Owls and
We bring the fight
All through the Southland
All know our might!
From the mountain
We bring spirit, heart, and victory!”
My co-writer Wes Jackson and I will be there, before heading to the Plains fro the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry on Saturday.
There may not be any Gator Teal in Kennesaw, but we don’t expect too much Fifth Third Stadium yellow, either.
Kennesaw State makes a STATEMENT for the CUSA title race on Thursday. The Miller Lite’s will be flowing and the Ice Cream Index (IYKYK) leans towards the Owls.
Don’t expect too much stress from either of us, as the Crimson Tide and Bulldogs are still prepping for the main course slate on Saturday and plenty more Miller Lite!
Our forefathers may not have had Miller Lite, but we do! Oh, and the ice cream is also damn good at Fifth Third Stadium.
It’s going to be a night to remember, just down the road from the infamous Kennesaw Mountain.
Hooty Hoo!
Keys to the Game
Kennesaw State’s Tricky Offense: The Owls’ tricky offense will be a challenge for Louisiana Tech’s defense. If Kennesaw State can establish the run early and control the clock, they can keep the Bulldogs’ offense off the field and dictate the tempo of the game.
Louisiana Tech’s Passing Attack: The Bulldogs’ ability to stretch the field with their passing game will be crucial. If they can exploit Kennesaw State’s secondary and create big plays, they can put pressure on the Owls’ defense.
Turnover Battle: Both teams have been effective in creating turnovers this season. Winning the turnover battle will be essential for either team to secure victory.
Special Teams: Special teams play can often be the difference in close games. A big return or a timely field goal could swing momentum in favor of either team.
Prediction
While Louisiana Tech enters the game as the favorite, Kennesaw State’s home-field advantage and the unique challenges posed by their offense make this a closely contested matchup. The Owls’ ability to control the clock and limit Louisiana Tech’s offensive possessions will be key to their success.
THE OWLS PULL OFF THE UPSET!
Final Score Prediction: Kennesaw State 27, Louisiana Tech 24
OVER 45.5
In a thrilling back-and-forth game, the Owls will capitalize on their home-field advantage and secure a narrow victory over the Bulldogs. The win will further solidify Kennesaw State’s status as a rising power in Conference USA and college football at large.
Fun Tidbits and Cultural References
- Kennesaw Mountain: The stadium’s location near Kennesaw Mountain adds a unique backdrop to the game, with fans enjoying picturesque views and a sense of history.
- Rapid Rise: Kennesaw State’s ascent from a new program to a competitive force in Conference USA has been impressive. Their commitment to excellence and community engagement has garnered attention across the nation.
- Fight Song: As the Owls take the field, the echoes of their fight song resonate through the stadium, rallying fans and players alike. “Kennesaw State, our hearts are true, we’ll fight for you, we’ll see it through!”
- Tailgating: The pre-game atmosphere is electric, with fans gathering for tailgates featuring local ATL cuisine, music, and spirited chants. The sense of community and school pride is palpable.
- Student Section: The student section is known for its energy and creativity, led by the banana men, often leading cheers and creating a lively environment that boosts the team’s morale.
- Mascot: Scrappy the Owl, the team’s mascot, is a fan favorite, entertaining the crowd with his antics and engaging with fans of all ages.
- Traditions: The “Owl Walk,” where players walk through a tunnel of fans before entering the stadium, is a cherished tradition that symbolizes the bond between the team and its supporters.
- Community Support: The local community’s support for the team is unwavering, with fans filling the stands and creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
- Future Outlook: With a strong recruiting class and continued investment in facilities, Kennesaw State’s future in college football looks bright. The program’s trajectory suggests that they will continue to be a force in Conference USA and beyond.
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