Ohio Bobcats Clinch Bowl Eligibility with Dominant 41-0 Win Over Kent State

The Ohio Bobcats secured their bowl eligibility in impressive fashion, shutting out the Kent State Golden Flashes 41-0 on Wednesday night at Dix Stadium in Kent, Ohio. This victory marked the Bobcats’ sixth win of the season, improving their record to 6-3 overall and 4-1 in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).

The game was highlighted by stellar performances from Ohio’s special teams, with graduate student wide receiver Eamonn Dennis returning a kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown and wide receiver Coleman Owen scoring on a 61-yard punt return in the third quarter. These special teams touchdowns were the first time since 2008 that the Bobcats have recorded multiple special teams touchdowns in a single game.

On the offensive side, graduate student quarterback Parker Navarro completed 14 of 24 passes for 142 yards and added 41 yards on the ground, including a rushing touchdown. Redshirt junior quarterback Nick Poulos also contributed with a touchdown pass and 22 yards rushing. Graduate student running back Anthony Tyus III returned to action, rushing for 84 yards and a touchdown, while redshirt freshman running back Rickey Hunt Jr. added 81 yards on nine carries.

The Bobcats’ defense was equally impressive, allowing just 114 yards and seven first downs to the Golden Flashes. Redshirt senior cornerback Roman Parodie had an interception, and junior safety Adonis Williams Jr. had three pass breakups. Sophomore kicker Gianni Spetic made two field goals, including a 42-yard kick.

Kent State, now 0-9 and 0-5 in the MAC, saw a standout performance from junior safety Josh Baka, who had a career-high 18 tackles, including 12 solo tackles. However, the Golden Flashes were unable to capitalize on their defensive efforts, failing to score any points throughout the game.

The Bobcats will next host the Eastern Michigan Eagles on November 14 at Frank Solich Field at Peden Stadium, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. ET and the game to be broadcast on ESPN2, ESPNU, or CBSSN.