On a fateful Wednesday night in Kennesaw, Georgia, the Kennesaw State Owls etched their name in the annals of college football history. In a thrilling 27-24 victory over the previously undefeated Liberty Flames, the Owls secured their first-ever win against an FBS opponent. The monumental upset sent shockwaves through the college football landscape and ignited a celebration that will long be remembered by the Kennesaw State faithful.
A Night of Firsts for Kennesaw State
The Owls, who entered the game with a 0-6 record, had never before tasted victory against a Division I opponent. Their win over Liberty marked not only their first FBS triumph but also their first win against any D1 team since November 2022. The significance of the moment was not lost on the players, coaches, and fans who had endured a challenging start to the season.
Offensive Firepower Fuels Upset
Kennesaw State’s offense rose to the occasion, with quarterback Davis Bryson leading the charge. Bryson connected on a touchdown pass, while the rushing attack, spearheaded by Michael Benefield and Qua Ashley, each found the end zone. The balanced offensive attack kept the Liberty defense on its heels throughout the game.
We knew we had the talent to compete with anyone. It was just a matter of putting it all together on the field.
– Kennesaw State Head Coach, in a post-game interview
Liberty’s Streak Comes to an End
For Liberty, the loss marked the end of a remarkable 17-game regular-season winning streak. The Flames, who entered the game as one of only 11 unbeaten teams in the FBS, struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Kennesaw State defense. Despite a late rally, Liberty was unable to overcome the deficit, suffering their first setback of the season.
A Rare Feat in College Football
According to ESPN Research, Kennesaw State’s victory marks only the sixth time in the AP poll era that a team with a record of 0-5 or worse has defeated a team with a record of 5-0 or better. The last such occurrence took place in 2001, when North Texas stunned Middle Tennessee. The rarity of such an upset underscores the magnitude of Kennesaw State’s achievement.
To be a part of something so historic, it’s a feeling I can’t even describe. We believed in ourselves when no one else did.
– Kennesaw State quarterback Davis Bryson
Defensive Stand Seals the Victory
The Owls’ defense rose to the occasion in the game’s crucial moments. A timely fourth-down stop with eight minutes remaining, followed by a clutch field goal from Austin Welch, gave Kennesaw State a 10-point lead. Despite Liberty’s late touchdown, the Owls’ defense stood tall, forcing a fumble on the game’s final play to seal the victory.
A Moment to Savor for Kennesaw State
As the final seconds ticked away and the Kennesaw State fans rushed the field, the Owls’ players and coaches savored the moment. The win served as a testament to their resilience, determination, and belief in one another. For a program that had endured its share of struggles, the victory over Liberty marked a turning point and a glimpse of the potential that lies ahead.
This is a moment we’ll never forget. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone in this program.
– Kennesaw State Athletic Director, in a statement to the press
Looking Ahead for the Owls
With their first FBS win under their belt, Kennesaw State will look to build upon this momentum as they navigate the remainder of their Conference USA schedule. The Owls have proven that they have the talent and the heart to compete with anyone, and they will undoubtedly draw confidence from this landmark victory.
As for Liberty, the loss serves as a wake-up call and a reminder that no team, regardless of their record, can be taken lightly. The Flames will look to regroup and refocus as they aim to bounce back in the coming weeks.
In the end, Kennesaw State’s triumph over Liberty will go down as one of the most memorable upsets in recent college football history. It is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport and the magic that can happen on any given day. For the Owls, it is a moment to cherish and a foundation upon which to build a brighter future.
