The matchup between Kennesaw State and Florida International promises to be a pivotal game in Conference USA (CUSA) action. Scheduled for October 21, 2023, at 19:00 EDT, the game will be broadcast on ESPN2, giving fans an opportunity to witness both teams as they aim for crucial conference victories.
Team Performance Overview
Florida International enters the game with a record of 3-3, while Kennesaw State stands at 4-2. The statistics reveal contrasting strengths and weaknesses for both squads. Florida International’s offense averages **379.0 yards per game**, ranking **74th** in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The Panthers have struggled in scoring, producing just **21.8 points per game**, placing them **111th** nationally. In contrast, Kennesaw State’s offense averages **363.0 yards per game**, ranking **89th** in the FBS, and scores **22.0 points per game**, placing them **110th**.
On the defensive side, Florida International has allowed **409.8 yards per game** (113th in FBS), with opponents scoring **27.7 points per game** (93rd). Kennesaw State’s defense has been slightly better, allowing **383.5 yards per game** (87th) and **20.5 points per game** (45th).
Both teams face challenges on third downs, with Florida International ranking **108th** in defensive third down percentage, permitting a **43.8%** conversion rate. Conversely, Kennesaw State ranks **57th** on offense, achieving **41.8%** in third down conversions.
Key Players and Recent Performances
Florida International’s offensive leader, **Keyone Jenkins**, has passed for **959 yards** with **3 touchdowns** and **4 interceptions**, completing **63.6%** of his throws. Rushing leader **Kejon Owens** has been impressive, racking up **658 yards** on **98 carries** with **6 touchdowns**. In the receiving department, **Alex Perry** has contributed **280 yards** on **19 receptions** with **2 touchdowns**.
Kennesaw State’s standout quarterback, **Amari Odom**, has accumulated **754 yards**, throwing **4 touchdowns** against **1 interception**, maintaining a completion percentage of **71.6%**. Running back **Coleman Bennett** leads in rushing with **365 yards** on **76 attempts** and **2 touchdowns**. **Gabriel Benyard** has been a key target in the passing game, totaling **398 yards** on **29 receptions** with **3 touchdowns**.
In their most recent outings, Florida International defeated Western Kentucky **25-6** on October 14, 2023. Jenkins passed for **184 yards** and one touchdown, while Owens had an outstanding performance with **195 rushing yards** and one touchdown. On the other hand, Kennesaw State secured a decisive **35-7** win over Louisiana Tech on October 9, 2023. Odom threw for **290 yards** and **4 touchdowns**, and Bennett contributed both in rushing and receiving.
As both teams prepare for their upcoming games, Florida International will face Missouri State on October 29, while Kennesaw State will host UTEP on October 28. The outcome of this clash on October 21 could significantly impact their standings in the conference. Fans can anticipate an exciting matchup as both teams look to capitalize on their strengths and address their weaknesses on the field.
