Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

There Was A College Football Upset On Thursday Night

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Brendan Howe | Last updated Oct 10, 2025 11:37 AM ET

The Kennesaw State Owls are still establishing themselves on the FBS level. Their upset win over the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs on Thursday night is a stepping stone on that journey.

The Bulldogs, who entered as 5.5-point favorites, were seeking their first 5-1 start since 2019. They struck first on Omiri Wiggins’ 1-yard surge just over halfway through the first quarter. Kennesaw State responded by ripping off 35 unanswered points, including four passing touchdowns by Dexter Williams II.

It was Gabriel Benyard’s 9-yard ground score that gave the hosts a permanent lead with 6:15 remaining in the first half.

Sep 6, 2025; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Kennesaw State Owls defensive backs Caleb Offord (2) and Milon Jones (29) celebrate after a defensive play during the first half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

“Credit to Kennesaw State first-year head coach Jerry Mack,” On3’s Pete Nakos wrote Thursday on X. “Owls are about to double their win total from 2024 and match the number of CUSA wins from a year ago. With a 4-2 record, the only losses in 2025 are to Wake Forest and Indiana.”

Kody Jones and Antonio Stevens both notched interceptions for Kennesaw State, which also stonewalled Louisiana Tech on its final possession. Williams finished 27 of 36 for 290 yards through the air. Coleman Bennett ran for 73 yards on 17 carries for the Owls.

Kennesaw State is in its second season at the FBS level. It started its gridiron program in 2015. The Owls won three Big South Conference Championships under Brian Bohannon, with whom they made the jump last go-round. Last year, Bohannon stepped down, then later said on social media he was fired. He’d gone 72-38 during his tenure, but the team was 1-8 at that point.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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