The Kennesaw State Owls have made a remarkable turnaround this season, bouncing back from a dismal 2-10 record to an impressive 5-2 overall, placing them in a strong position within Conference USA. Head coach Jerry Mack is receiving accolades for his work in transforming the program’s fortunes, and they are now favored by 10.5 points against UTEP in an upcoming matchup.
After being predicted as one of the weakest teams in the FBS this season, Kennesaw State’s upward trajectory has surprised many, especially given their performance so far. According to SP+, a comprehensive metric developed by Bill Connelly, the Owls are now ranked 82nd nationally, which places them alongside traditional powerhouses like Michigan State and Virginia Tech. This is a significant jump from their preseason ranking of 133rd, where they were positioned at the bottom alongside teams like Kent State and UMass.
In contrast, UTEP finds itself struggling at 120th in the SP+ rankings. The Miners have faced significant challenges this season, particularly on offense, ranking poorly in several key statistics, including points per game and yards per play. Although UTEP’s defense can compete with other Group of 5 programs, their offensive struggles have been a primary factor in their disappointing performance thus far.
For Kennesaw State, their defense has been a bright spot, ranked 53rd overall, which should provide a solid foundation as they prepare to face UTEP. The Owls showcase a balanced offensive strategy that keeps opponents guessing, which could prove advantageous against a struggling Miners team.
With momentum on their side and a hungry squad eager to continue their rise, Kennesaw State is poised to solidify their advantage against UTEP, setting the stage for a compelling battle on the field. As the Owls continue their unexpected journey this season, they remain a team to watch in college football, demonstrating that determination and effective coaching can turn a program around.