The much-maligned Kennesaw State offense hit a gear to outscore Conference USA’s second-ranked offense 42-40 for a homecoming win.
When teams combine for 82 points, it’s safe to say neither defense brought their A-game. Neither did special teams – well, Delaware’s got off the bus late, and both struggled with two-point conversions. Owls return man Davis Bryson caught the Blue Hens napping with a 99-yard kick return for a touchdown to start the game.
Delaware’s defense did get a huge play from defensive tackle Trace Scott III. The junior defensive tackle had a pick-six off Owls starter Rickie Collins. The big fella sprinted into the end zone and back to the sideline in 0.8 seconds.
Like I said in the pregame, “All Delaware needed to do is what they do best – throw the ball.” Nick Minicucci did just that, racking up 408 yards and two touchdowns on 35-of-54 passing. Two more catches could have made a difference in the outcome. Sean Wilson and Da’Wain Lofton dropped certain first downs on third-and-long.
Kennesaw State rushed for more than their 129 ypg average, including two big runs from scrimmage. Boogie Woods III popped free the left side for a 26-yard touchdown run.
Owls head coach Jerry Mack platooned his signal callers depending on what the situation called for. Landon Varnes came off the bench attacking the soft spot of the Blue Hens’ defense – the secondary. Delaware is ranked last in the conference against the pass. Varnes hit’em up for 254 yards, including a 30-yard strike to Reed Jesiolowski on third-and-l6 for a 63-yard touchdown.
The lead changed nine times before it was all said and done. Minicucci threw one last touchdown with 24 seconds remaining on the clock to give the Blue Hens a chance to send the game into overtime. A holding call on the offense, combined with an incomplete pass in the end zone, and the Owls had their victory.