By: Michael Goss
KENNESAW, Ga. – The No. 13 Kennesaw State football team welcomes North Carolina A&T to Fifth Third Bank Stadium this Saturday, Oct. 16th for the Owls' Homecoming game. Kickoff is set for 5:00 p.m. and has been selected as the Big South Game of the Week.
The Rundown
Opponent: North Carolina A&T State Aggies
Date: Saturday, Oct. 16th
Site: Fifth Third Bank Stadium
Kickoff: 5 p.m.
TV: ESPN+
Radio: KSU Owls App
Live Stats: Click Here
Tickets: Click Here
Parking: Click Here
Game Notes: KSU |
NC A&T
Fall 2021 Schedule: Click Here
Top Storylines
- The game is the first meeting between the No. 13/15 Kennesaw State Owls and the (RV) North Carolina A&T State Aggies. Both are members of the Big South Conference.
- Head coach Brian Bohannon moved into second place all-time in Big South career victories after a win in week five. Bohannon currently has 56 wins and trails only Coastal Carolina's David Bennett at 63.
- Quarterback Xavier Shepherd is coming off another record performance against Hampton. The sophomore set the Big South rushing yards record for quarterbacks during a conference game with 179 and tied his career high in rushing touchdowns (three). Shepherd has rushed for 100+ yards in back-to-back games.
- The Owls' offense looks to remain dominant on the ground. Since week 11 of the 2015 season, Kennesaw State has compiled 150+ rushing yards in 64 consecutive games.
Numbers to Know
- 52 - KSU has been ranked in the top 25 for 52 straight weeks, dating back to week nine of the 2017 season.
- 62 - The Owls have at least one rushing TD in 62 consecutive games, a streak that spans four full seasons.
- 9 - QB Xavier Shepherd currently ranks second in the FCS with nine rushing touchdowns on the year.
KSU in the FCS Rankings
After six weeks of play, the Owls rank top five in multiple FCS categories. These include:
- 2nd – Rushing yards per game (288.4 YPG)
- 2nd – Time of possession (35:25)
- 4th – Fewest penalty yards per game (30.2 YPG)
- 5th – Fourth down conversion success rate (90%)
- 5th – Fourth down conversion defense (17%)
Quick Facts: Xavier Shepherd
- The sophomore ranks second in the FCS in rushing touchdowns (nine).
- Shepherd is scoring an average of 10.8 points per game which ranks third in the FCS.
- The Owls' quarterback ranks first in the Big South in total points scored (54).
Best Ever
No other start-up program in college football history has more wins in its first five seasons than Kennesaw State with 48 victories.
Dynasty Mode
Dating back to week two of the 2017 season, Kennesaw State has won 42 of its last 50 games for an .840 winning percentage.
Ranking Streak Record
Following the preseason polls by Stats FCS and the AFCA, KSU broke a record with 46 consecutive weeks in a top-25 poll. The streak broke a previous Big South Conference record of 45 weeks held by Coastal Carolina. The Owls have been ranked in one of the two polls for 52 consecutive weeks.
Overflow Gameday Parking
For the NC A&T game, overflow parking for the Black Lot will be located on the grass lot next to Children's Hospital of Atlanta (CHOA) off Big Shanty Road. For more information on parking, please click
here.
Clear Bag Policy
In an effort to provide a safer environment, enhance fan experience and significantly expedite entry into Fifth Third Bank Stadium, Kennesaw State adheres by a clear bag policy. Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" or one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar) are permitted in the stadium. Individuals may also carry a small clutch purse, no larger than 4.5" x 6.5", with or without a handle or strap. All clear bags and clutch purses will be screened prior to entry into the venue. All bags and purses not meeting the above requirements will not be permitted. Although permitted, childcare items, including diapers, must also be carried in an approved clear bag. Bags needed for medical reasons will be allowed and will need to enter through the Georgia Natural Gas gate to be checked.
Owl Town
Owl Town is back for Saturday's contest. The free tailgate opens two hours before kickoff, immediately following the Owl Walk. It will be located at George Busbee Parkway near the Georgia Natural Gas gate. The first 250 Owl fans can enjoy J.D.'s BBQ on a first-come, first serve basis. Alcohol will be available for purchase for fans ages 21 and over with a valid ID and must be consumed within a designated area.
This week, Owl Town will feature music from Francisco Vidal and Harlee Pope from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Kennesaw State men's basketball team will be signing autographs at 4:00 p.m.
For more information on Kennesaw State athletics, follow @KennesawStFB on Twitter or like Kennesaw State Football on Facebook and Instagram.
