The third-ranked Kennesaw State Owls pummeled Presbyterian 56-0 at Fifth-Third Bank Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 6, totaling 637 offensive yards.
Chandler Burks accounted for five touchdowns and the defense held the opponents scoreless as KSU extended its winning streak to five games, including four straight at home.
On a defense that began the year with players who lacked experience, their discipline was gifted with the fourth shutout in program history. Dorian Walker’s interception during the Owls’ opening defensive drive gave KSU at least one turnover for the 20th straight game.
“I think that’s the most critical thing,” Head Coach Brian Bohannon said. “Making people earn it, making people drive down the field, and not giving up the big play.”
The defense set a team record by limiting the Blue Hose to 141 total yards and just 18 on the ground.
“We always put a big emphasis on getting a shutout,” linebacker Anthony Gore Jr. said. “We always put emphasis on not giving up any first down. As long as we handle the little things, the big things will come, like shutouts.”
Although Burks routinely racks up rushing touchdowns, his first touchdown of the game was a 25-yard pass to Darnell Holland. On each of the Owls’ following three drives, Burks punches in rushing touchdowns from close range, extending the lead 28-0 by halftime.
“Throughout the game, those safeties started to get at linebacker level,” Burks said. “We’ve got to make sure we keep them on their toes a little bit to make sure that they honor the pass.”
Burks opened the second half with a 75-yard drive that ended in a 38-yard rushing touchdown, making it his second career game with four touchdowns on the ground. Along with his 53 passing yards, he led the rushing attack with 135 yards on 16 carries.
“He does what he has to, he’s a winner,” Bohannon said. “He’s a special young man. I’m not talking about just touchdowns, it’s all the things he brings to the table.”
After his opening series in the third quarter, Burks would be sidelined, giving back-ups Daniel David and Tommy Bryant a glimpse of the field. Both quarterbacks seized the given opportunity.
David linked with Xavier Harper on a 43-yard pass which set up Isaac Foster’s 12-yard touchdown run. David also added a 1-yard touchdown run late in the third.
As for Bryant, he dumped a pass off to Kevin Ficklin, who broke three tackles before taking it to the end zone for 55 yards.
“I’d like for it to get a little crisper,” Bohannon said. “I think the reps are monumental. Next year those guys will be thrusted into the limelight.”
Next up, KSU will take on Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina on Saturday, Oct. 13, at 1:30 p.m.
