Kennesaw State University’s football program officially entered the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in 2024, joining Conference USA as the newest member of the top tier of college football. The transition marks a significant shift for the Owls, who previously competed in the Big South Conference and the ASUN Conference at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level.
Kennesaw State’s Transition to Conference USA
The university accepted an invitation to join Conference USA in October 2022, setting the stage for a two-year transition period. According to the official announcement from Conference USA, the move was part of a broader expansion strategy for the league. As of the 2024 season, the Owls are eligible for full conference play and bowl game participation.
This move requires the program to meet the NCAA’s rigorous standards for FBS membership, including minimum stadium seating requirements and scholarship limitations. The Owls play their home games at Fifth Third Stadium, which has undergone various upgrades to support the increased demands of the FBS level.
Building the Program Under Brian Bohannon
Head coach Brian Bohannon has led the program since its inception in 2015. Under his guidance, the Owls established a reputation for a high-volume rushing attack and consistent success at the FCS level, including multiple playoff appearances and conference championships.
The transition to the FBS presents a new set of challenges, particularly regarding recruiting depth and the physical demands of playing a schedule composed entirely of higher-division opponents. Bohannon has frequently emphasized the importance of team culture as the foundation for the program’s growth. In public remarks shared via the university’s athletic social media channels, the coaching staff has maintained that the focus remains on incremental improvement and adapting to the competitive pace of the new conference.
Competitive Impact and Future Outlook
Entering Conference USA puts Kennesaw State in competition with programs such as Liberty, Jacksonville State, and Western Kentucky. The shift is expected to increase the program’s visibility and media revenue potential, as FBS schools typically receive larger payouts from conference television deals compared to their FCS counterparts.
For the university, the move represents the culmination of a decade of rapid growth in athletics. Since fielding their first team in 2015, the Owls have focused on building brand recognition within the Atlanta metropolitan area. The move to the FBS is intended to solidify the university’s status within the national landscape of collegiate athletics.
Key Details for Fans
- Conference: Conference USA (C-USA).
- Head Coach: Brian Bohannon (tenure began in 2015).
- Home Venue: Fifth Third Stadium, Kennesaw, Georgia.
- Division Status: Full FBS member as of the 2024 season.
The program’s performance in its inaugural FBS season serves as a benchmark for long-term sustainability. While the jump in competition level is significant, the university administration has stated that the transition is a strategic move to align the athletic department with the institution’s overall growth goals.