The football team is preparing for the first game of the year at Georgia State, where they seek to continue its success from last season.
Last year, the Owls won the Big South Conference title and reached the quarterfinals of the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs. This year will be a test of the team’s desire to achieve even greater heights.
Despite the impressive 12-2 record last season, there were some inconsistencies that have transferred to this season. Following a practice week of poor performances early on, the team’s focus is beginning to reshape.
“These last three days have been positive — they’ve had more energy about them, more focus,” Bohannon said. “Collectively, [I’ve] really been encouraged by the attitude.”
The general consensus for the opening game against the Panthers is that the Owls are underdogs because they’re facing a Football Bowl Subdivision school. That won’t stop the Owls from pulling out all stops to show their dynamic rushing attack.
Before facing the Panthers, the Owls may need to finish flourishing internally. This off-season, the competition to earn time on the field has been no secret.
On the first day of training camp, Bohannon said that several positions were not solidified because of the loss of certain seniors. While he hasn’t officially announced all starters, adjustments have been made.
“Obviously, as we get closer to game time, I think everybody starts to dial in a little bit more,” Bohannon said. “[They’re] excited about playing the game and hitting somebody else.”
Recently, the Owls decided that Dorian Walker, transfer defensive back from Georgia Tech, will be moved from corner to safety.
“I think the transition was good,” Walker said. “When I first got here, I told the team that I was willing to do whatever that they needed from me, so wherever they move me I’m happy as long as it’s helping the team.”
Bohannon says the decision appertained to putting the best 11 players on the field.
“Dorian has been a lot more dialed into what he’s doing,” Bohannon said. “He can always go back to corner in a pinch, but we feel like we can best use his abilities playing safety.”
The defensive changes may be fitting, but it’s not the same story for the offensive line. Bohannon was transparent with the progress of the unit, who had been crucial in allowing the Owls to have the top rushing attack in the nation last season.
“We’re not there yet,” Bohannon said. “I’ll be honest with you. I don’t know that we’ll be there for the first game, but we’ll find out when we play the game exactly where we are. It may even take us a couple weeks before we know exactly where we are.”
For people rooting for the Owls, Bohannon has a message.
“Let’s make it a home game,” he said. “Let’s make it more black and gold than blue and white. It’s right down the road. Having a great student fan base there is going to make a huge difference in our kids and having a chance to win the game.”
The Owls begin their fourth season on Thursday, Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m., playing at Georgia State’s stadium, formerly known as Turner Field. KSU students can access $5 tickets with a valid student email and must enter KSUSTU as the access code.
