Florida International University (FIU) will host Kennesaw State University on October 21, 2023, at 19:00 EDT in a crucial Conference USA (CUSA) matchup. Both teams are looking to improve their standings, with Kennesaw State entering the game with a record of 4-2, while Florida International stands at 3-3.
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2, providing fans with a chance to see how both teams perform under pressure.
Offensive and Defensive Stats
This matchup features contrasting offensive and defensive statistics. Florida International averages 379.0 yards per game, ranking 74th in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Their offense is driven by a strong rushing game, accumulating an average of 187.8 yards per game, which places them 39th nationally. However, they struggle in scoring, averaging only 21.8 points per game, leaving them ranked 111th.
On the other hand, Kennesaw State’s offense produces 363.0 yards per game, putting them at 89th in the FBS. They are slightly more effective in passing, averaging 217.0 yards per game compared to Florida International’s 191.2 yards per game. Kennesaw State’s scoring average stands at 22.0 points per game, ranking them 110th.
Defensively, Florida International has allowed an average of 409.8 yards per game, which ranks 113th. They struggle particularly against the pass, giving up 267.3 yards per game, the worst in the FBS. In contrast, Kennesaw State allows 383.5 yards per game, placing them at 87th, and has a more effective scoring defense, allowing 20.5 points per game, which ranks them 45th.
Key Players and Recent Performances
For Florida International, quarterback Keyone Jenkins leads the team with 959 passing yards, throwing three touchdowns and four interceptions. His completion percentage stands at 63.6%. The rushing attack is spearheaded by Kejon Owens, who has amassed 658 yards on 98 carries, scoring six touchdowns. In the receiving department, Alex Perry has been a key target with 280 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
Kennesaw State’s offense is directed by quarterback Amari Odom, who has thrown for 754 yards, completing four touchdowns with only one interception. Coleman Bennett leads the rushing game with 365 yards on 76 carries, adding two touchdowns. In the receiving corps, Gabriel Benyard stands out with 398 yards and three touchdowns.
Both teams are coming off victories in their last games. Florida International secured a decisive 25-6 win against Western Kentucky on October 14, 2023. Jenkins completed 17 of 25 passes for 184 yards, tossing one touchdown without any interceptions. Owens had an impressive outing with 195 rushing yards and one touchdown.
Kennesaw State recorded a commanding 35-7 victory over Louisiana Tech on October 9, 2023. Odom had an outstanding performance, completing 27 of 36 passes for 290 yards and four touchdowns. Bennett contributed significantly with 73 rushing yards and one receiving touchdown.
As both teams prepare for this pivotal clash, they aim to solidify their positions in CUSA. Florida International will next face Missouri State on October 29, while Kennesaw State will host UTEP on October 28.
This matchup promises to be an engaging contest as both teams look to leverage their strengths and secure a vital victory in their respective campaigns.
