Red zone woes thwart comeback as MTSU football falls to Kennesaw State

The Blue Raiders only managed three scores on five red zone trips in their Conference USA opener on Saturday night.

Brett Walker and Willie Phaler • September 27, 2025

Quarterback Nick Vattiato walks off the field during an MTSU timeout against Kennesaw State at Fifth Third Stadium on Sept. 27, 2025.

KENNESAW, Georgia- MTSU football (1-4, 0-1 CUSA) lost to Kennesaw State University (3-2, 1-0 CUSA) 24-16 on Saturday night at Fifth Third Stadium.

The Blue Raiders trailed 21-3 in the first quarter due to turnovers and defensive miscues, with a second-half rally hindered by empty redzone possessions.

“When we go back and look at this game, we’re going to be sick to our stomach,” MTSU head coach Derek Mason said.

Middle Tennessee’s offense started sluggishly as running back Jekail Middlebrook fumbled less than one minute into the game. Kennesaw State fooled the Blue Raiders’ defense three plays later on a flea flicker to open the scoring at 7-0.

The Owls’ defense forced a quick three-and-out on Middle Tennessee’s ensuing possession and struck quickly on offense once again. KSU’s up-tempo attack proved to be a problem for MTSU’s defense early.

“They jumped on us quick, and we just can’t let that happen,” linebacker Parker Hughes said.

Wide receiver Cam’ron Lacy makes a cut against Kennesaw State at Fifth Third Stadium on Sept. 27, 2025. (Ephraim Rodenbach)

Despite the slow start in the first quarter, MTSU rebounded over the course of the game of play, particularly on offense. Middle Tennessee outgained Kennesaw State 440-334 on the night in the Blue Raiders’ highest yardage total of the season.

Two standouts for MTSU’s offense were running back Jekail Middlebrook and wide receiver Cam’ron Lacy. Middlebrook rushed for a season-high 109 yards and two touchdowns while hauling in three receptions for 12 yards.

Lacy caught a career-high eight passes on nine targets for 76 yards and finished second for the Blue Raiders in total receiving. Middlebrook and Lacy both provided depth to a receiving room struggling with production.

“The reality is the weapons are there, we’ve just got to make sure that we can put the ball in the end zone,” Mason said.

Middle Tennessee’s failure to finish drives kept Saturday’s performance from resulting in a win. From missed scoring opportunities to turnovers, the Blue Raiders wasted plenty of chances to capitalize, Mason said.

On five red zone trips, the Blue Raiders only managed three scores: two Middlebrook touchdowns and a 34-yard Jacob Hathaway field goal.

Following the loss, MTSU faces a bye week before taking on Missouri State University (2-2, 0-1 CUSA) on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m. CDT.

To contact the Sports editor, email [email protected].

Follow Sidelines on Facebook at Facebook.com/MTSUSidelines, on X @mtsusidelines and Instagram @mtsusidelines. Sign up for our weekly newsletter here.

About the Contributors

Brett Walker, Managing Editor

I lead sports coverage for MTSU Sidelines. I’m the biggest football fan you’ll ever meet, even though I played tennis in high school. In my free time, you can catch me with my family, going to church or losing to my friends in Madden.

Willie Phaler, Co-Sports Editor

I’m currently in my senior year as a Sports Media Journalism major and will graduate in the spring. I don’t get away from sports much in my free time, as I love to watch games or play video games in my free time. A fun fact about me is that I’ve been to 21 MLB-affiliated stadiums, including 7 major league parks.

Ephraim Rodenbach, Co-Sports Editor

I am a junior graduating in fall 2027 with a degree in sports journalism with a double minor in mass communication and sports management. I’m the biggest Diego Pavia fan you’ll ever meet and an extremely passionate Nashville Predators fan. During my free time, I enjoy taking pictures, cooking, working out and hiking!