By: Nolan Alexander
KENNESAW, Ga. – The Kennesaw State offense (Gold) claimed a 41-36 victory over the defense (Black) in the program's annual spring game Friday night inside Fifth Third Stadium. With the win, the offense will enjoy a meal of steak and ribs, while the defense will have to settle for hot dogs, baked beans, and water as the consolation prize.
"Today I thought you saw a game that was evenly matched at times," said head coach Brian Bohannon. "It was a productive spring, regardless of tonight, because we did make improvement. We have a lot of work to do to get where we need to go, but this is part of the process."
The defense posted a trio of three-and-outs on the night and came up with two big defensive plays, including on the first drive of the game. After the offense reeled off a 12-play drive, defensive back Isaac Paul recovered a fumble and sprinted down the left sideline for an 86-yard touchdown return that put the Black up 7-2 early.
A string of third-down stops put the defense up 22-4, before the offense claimed its first touchdown of the night on a seven-yard run by quarterback Davis Bryson. He added another touchdown run in the second quarter on an 11-yard dash, while a six-yard run by running back D.J. Scott near the end of the quarter put the offense up 32-22.
The defense closed within 32-27 in the third quarter thanks to an interception by linebacker Garland Benyard to stop a scoring opportunity by the Gold.
The Black kept the offense out of the end zone in the final quarter, but the Gold managed to put together enough conversions to claim the win after redshirt-senior Preston Daniels converted a third-down run on the last drive to seal the win.
With the modified scoring method, the offense gained three points in the fourth quarter due to third down conversations (one point each). This moved the score to 47-32, which held as the final.
Defensive lineman Thomarius Walker was presented with the LD Clardy Memorial Impact Award during halftime.
"It really means a lot. That was my best friend growing up. I enjoyed being able to see his parents and cherish the moment," said Walker. "I want to give a shout out to my team and coaches for giving me the opportunity to showcase my talents. Stepping up into a leader role means a lot."
Season Tickets
Season tickets are available for the 2024 season by calling 470-578-OWLS or emailing Shawn Betz at sbetz1@kennesaw.edu.
