KENNESAW, Ga. — In an exciting matchup on Wednesday night, Kennesaw State achieved a monumental victory, defeating Liberty 27-24. This win marked the Owls’ inaugural victory at the FBS level, showcasing their determination throughout the game.

Kennesaw State (1-6, 1-2 Conference USA) also celebrated its first victory against a Division I opponent since November 5, 2022, when they narrowly beat FCS-member UT Martin. Last season, the Owls managed to secure wins against lower-tier teams like Tusculum, Lincoln (Calif.), and Virginia Lynchburg.

Liberty entered the game with an impressive 5-1 record, boasting a streak as one of the 11 unbeaten teams in the FBS, along with a notable 17-game active regular-season streak that ultimately came to an end.

With Kennesaw State leading 24-17, the Flames attempted to keep their momentum by going for it on fourth-and-6 with eight minutes remaining. However, a false start penalty pushed them out of field-goal territory, and Kennesaw’s defense pressured quarterback Kaidon Salter into an incomplete pass, regaining possession for the Owls.

Davis Bryson then led the Owls’ offense, completing a 15-yard pass to Christian Moss followed by a 25-yard throw to Blake Bohannon, succeeding in advancing the team into Liberty territory. Kennesaw concluded their drive with Austin Welch converting a 42-yard field goal, extending their lead to 27-17 with just over four minutes left on the clock.

In response, Liberty mounted a rapid offensive push, culminating in a 17-yard touchdown pass from Salter to Elijah Canion with 1:49 remaining, trimming their deficit to just three points. The Flames recovered the ensuing onside kick, but the Owls’ defense held strong, preventing them from securing a first down. With six seconds remaining, Liberty regained possession at their 35-yard line. Salter’s final pass went out of bounds, invoking a rush of celebration from the fans, but officials added an additional second back on the clock. Following a return to the stands, the game concluded dramatically as Liberty fumbled a lateral play, ensuring Kennesaw State the historic victory.

Salter finished the game with 206 passing yards and three touchdowns for the Flames. According to ESPN, this game marked a rare occurrence in college football history, being the first time in 23 years that a team with a 0-5 record defeated a team that was 5-0 or better.