KENNESAW, Ga. — Despite a slow start, Middle Tennessee clawed back and had multiple chances to even the score before ultimately falling 24-16 to Kennesaw State in its Conference USA opener Saturday night at Fifth Third Stadium.

The Blue Raiders (1-4, 0-1 CUSA) trailed 21-3 after the first quarter but responded with a determined defensive effort, holding the Owls (3-2, 1-0) to just a single field goal over the final three quarters.

Running back Jekail Middlebrook powered the MTSU offense with 109 rushing yards on 20 carries and two touchdowns. His 10-yard scoring run midway through the second quarter cut the deficit to 21-10, and he added a 9-yard touchdown early in the fourth to bring the Blue Raiders within 21-16.

Middle Tennessee's defense kept momentum alive, forcing a key fumble in the second quarter and holding KSU to just one third-down conversion all game. Parker Hughes led the unit with seven tackles, while Devan Carlisle recovered the fumble that set up Middlebrook's first touchdown.

Quarterback Nicholas Vattiato threw for 285 yards, spreading completions among 10 different receivers. Nahzae Cox led the group with 77 yards, highlighted by a 35-yard grab.

MTSU outgained Kennesaw State 440-334 in total offense and dominated time of possession 38:59 to 21:32. The Blue Raiders had two late drives with chances to tie the game, reaching the KSU 11- and 38-yard lines in the final minutes before turning the ball over on downs.

By the Numbers  
106: The Blue Raider outgained the Owls 440-334 on the night.
26: This marks Vattiato's 25th game with 200 or more passing yards – second most in program history.
10: Vattiato connected with 10 different receivers on the night.

Thoughts from Head Coach Derek Mason  


Up Next   
The Blue Raiders are off next week before returning to Murfreesboro to host Missouri State on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT on ESPN2 and over the air on the Blue Raider Network.  

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