KENNESAW, Ga. — The Cadets held the Owls scoreless in the fourth quarter to secure the 22-17 victory in the Atlantic Sun Game of the Week presented by Cookout. The Citadel’s passing offense put up 357 yards through the air and managed to overcome 4 interceptions on the day. Kennesaw State passed around The Plank on the sideline each time a defensive back managed to snag another turnover. However their three turnovers proved to be detrimental as they lost another close game.

The Citadel’s head coach was happy to take questions after being surprised to learn that his team was participating in the Atlantic Sun Game of the Week presented by Cookout. He smiled when talking about the hot start the Cadets have had in Season 3.

“[I feel] pretty good. I knew that the Citadel had some history with owners leaving and I challenged myself to make the Citadel name proud once again. It was a hard fought first two games but I think things are looking up as the season progresses.”

He credited the Owl defense with being on top of their game and made it a point to praise his own squad as well.

“I think the opposing team had a great defensive strategy. We are going to need to work hard on not turning the ball over. Thankfully our defense were able to get a majority of those turnovers back, so it didn’t hurt us that bad. We look forward to correcting our mistakes for next game.”

Confidence oozed out his pores when asked about opening Carolina Conference Play in Week 3 against winless North Carolina Central.

“This is my first experience in this conference, so its going to be a bit of a learning curve on these teams. I think if we can come out early and have success moving the ball, we should do well. As far as [winning] our conference goes, its no secret that we want to make the playoffs. I feel bad for any other team in the CFC, because the Citadel is going to mop the floor with these other teams.”

When asked what his team could do better in the coming weeks, Coach Judge of the Kennesaw State Owls was very direct.

“I need to take advantage of clear scoring opportunities and limit turnovers. I felt like I had good field position all game, but look at the final score. Only 17 points on the board.”

He also pointed out that his defense forced four turnovers this week and three last, citing as a bright spot in the opening games.

“I’m pretty happy with my defense. Even when I’m giving up chunks of yards, I’m getting timely turnovers and stops. This OOC schedule has been grueling, but the experience can only help, and the door is still open to make some noise.”

Reporters asked how he would be preparing his team for the conference opener in Week 3 against 0-2 Savannah State.

“Savannah State has stumbled out the gate like I have, but you can never underestimate a veteran coach like Baba. It will all depend on the pace that the game is played at, I believe. More plays means more opportunities, which is what KSU needs to score enough to get ahead.”

The last question for Coach Judge was about the Georgia Belt, a trophy that will be awarded to the winner of a round-robin between Kennesaw State, Savannah State, and Mercer. He puffed up his chest and pounded the podium as he spoke words that would hopefully inspire his players in the coming week of practice.

“I hope the players realize what Metro Atlanta means to this state, and what it brings in. The belt belongs at the top of Kennesaw Mountain, looking past the skylines of Perimeter, Buckhead, and downtown Atlanta and looking down at the rest of the great state of Georgia. Be proud to be a Georgian, be proud to be an Owl, impose domination on our brethren to the south. It’s that simple.”