WRESTLING: Jim Andrassy on the season to date and a preview of Missouri

Kent State Wrestling is off to its best start in six seasons at 5-1, and you'll get your next chance to see the team in action on Sunday when Missouri visits the M.A.C. Center at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Head coach Jim Andrassy looks back at the season to date, discusses the performance of several student-athletes, discusses how the talent within the MAC has impacted scheduling, and looks ahead to what it will take to upset one of the highest ranked teams in the nation.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: O'Banion previews YSU and analyzes some numbers

The Golden Flashes are heading to Youngstown State for a regional rivalry game on Saturday at noon. We hope to see a good crowd of Kent State fans make the short trip to the Beeghly Center.

Head coach Danielle O'Banion previews the game with Youngstown State and delves into some numbers, showing how understanding some statistics are helping to fuel more enthusiasm within this young and improving roster.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff looks ahead to Thursday and Saturday at the M.A.C. Center – the only home games in December

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at back-to-back road wins vs Cleveland State at Quicken Loans Arena on Saturday and at NJIT on Monday, then previews the only two home games in December coming up Thursday vs University of Louisiana at Monroe and Saturday vs. Canisius. We hope to see you at the M.A.C. Center.

GYMNASTICS: Brice Biggin video blog previews Blue & Gold Meet, and more...

The Golden Flashes head coach talks about the goals for Friday's Blue & Gold Meet with Pittsburgh at 7 PM at the M.A.C. Center. He also talks about this year's roster and some key players who have worked extremely hard to come back from injury.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Victor Day and behind the scenes with director of basketball operations Krista Beechy

Head Coach Danielle O'Banion takes a look at Saturday's Victor Game vs. North Dakota State and Director of Basketball Operations Krista Beechy talks about all of the work behind the scenes of Kent State Women's Basketball team.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Danielle O'Banion previews Cleveland State and looks ahead to Victor Day

The Golden Flashes head coach previews Wednesday night's regional rivalry game with Cleveland State at the M.A.C. Center. She also talks about the planned visit to the Akron General Cancer Center on Thursday as part of the lead-up to Saturday's Victor Day game vs. North Dakota State at the M.A.C. Center.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff looks ahead at key four-game swing in preparing for start of MAC schedule

The Golden Flashes head coach looks ahead to a four-game swing coming up in early December that replicates the heart of the Mid-American Conference schedule. Beginning Saturday vs Cleveland State at Quicken Loans Arena, the Flashes get a great opportunity to prepare for what lies ahead. Senderoff also looks back at Saturday's game at Pittsburgh and discusses work ahead focusing on defense.

FOOTBALL: Paul Haynes previews Akron game

Paul Haynes previews Akron week. The coach takes a look at the Zips on offense and defense and discusses the importance of keeping the Wagon Wheel in Kent.

WOMEN'S & MEN'S BASKETBALL: Danielle O'Banion and Rob Senderoff preview Tuesday's Doubleheader

Women's Basketball head coach Danielle O'Banion previews tonight's game vs Minnesota and another opportunity to see a potential WNBA first-round selection in Golden Gophers' star Rachel Banham. Tonight is the start of a big homestand for the Golden Flashes and a doubleheader deal with women's basketball at 6:30 p.m. and the men to follow at approximately 8:30 p.m., so we hope to see you at the M.A.C. Center.




Men's Basketball head coach Rob Senderoff looks back at a win over Marist that saw his team make a dramatic improvement at the foul line. He also discusses his practice plans to address half-court defense as the team prepares to take on Saint Francis on Tuesday as part of a men's and women's basketball doubleheader at the M.A.C. Center.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Senderoff previews Marist, and discusses everything from getting better inside looks to free throw shooting

The Golden Flashes head coach reviews Tuesday night's loss at Southern Illinois, discusses free-throw shooting and the importance of getting better looks in inside before previewing Saturday's home game vs. Marist.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff on the road at Southern Illinois

The Golden Flashes head coach preview's Wednesday's game at Southern Illinois at 8 p.m. EST. Kent State is on its first road trip of the season and trying to build on a season-opening win over Youngstown State.

Tonight's game will be broadcast on the Golden Flashes iHeart Radio station and on ESPN3.

VOLLEYBALL: Gromala on East Division championship and MAC Tournament preview

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at a 2-0 weekend that saw wins over Akron and Buffalo secure a share of the Mid-American Conference East Division title. Gromala also previews this weekend's Mid-American Conference Tournament in Athens. The Flashes will take on either Buffalo or Ball State on Friday at 7:30 p.m.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: O'Banion previews season opener vs Colgate

The Golden Flashes head coach previews Sunday's regular-season opener vs. Colgate at the M.A.C. Center and discusses the early-season schedule that will see the Flashes play three games in just five days.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Senderoff on final prep for season opener

The head coach of the Golden Flashes on the state of the team heading into Saturday's season opener vs. Youngstown State. Senderoff also discusses last week's scrimmage at Robert Morris and  specifics of the next few days leading up to the 7 pm game at the M.A.C. Center on Saturday.

VOLLEYBALL: Video Blog looks ahead to the final weekend of the regular season

The Golden Flashes head coach reviews another 2-0 weekend and previews home matches against Akron on Friday and Buffalo on Saturday. It's a big final weekend to the regular season as the Flashes, who are tied for first in the MAC East, try to lock up a title.

FIELD HOCKEY: Kathleen Wiler on a MAC Tournament-clinching weekend and more

The head coach of the Golden Flashes looks back at last weekend and claiming the Mid-American Conference Tournament crown. She also looks ahead to Wednesday's NCAA Tournament opener at UMass.

VOLLEYBALL: Don Gromala on a win at Ohio to give the Flashes a share of first place

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at Thursday night's big win at Ohio – a victory that gave Kent State a share of 1st place – and also provides a preview of Saturday's 7 pm match with Eastern Michigan at the M.A.C. Center.

Kent State and Ohio are now tied for first place in the Mid-American Conference East Division at 10-3 in conference play. Eastern Michigan is 4-9 in MAC Play and in fifth place in the West Division entering Saturday.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Danielle O'Banion on Sunday's exhibition opener

The head coach of the Golden Flashes talks about goals for Sunday's 2 pm exhibition opener vs. Hiram College at the M.A.C. Center. It's finally time to get ready for some real games, and the Flashes are eager to get the 2015-16 campaign started.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff on opener, scrimmages, and more

The Kent State Men's Basketball season tips off in just 10 days when the Golden Flashes host Youngstown State at 7 pm on Nov. 14 as part of a special Coaches Vs. Cancer doubleheader with Cleveland State and Akron playing at 9 pm at the M.A.C. Center.

In today's video blob, Rob Senderoff discusses preparation leading up to the season opener, what the team learned from a scrimmage last week and some expectations for one final scrimmage at another school.

We hope to see you on Nov. 14 at the M.A.C. Center. Make your plans now!

And join the team this Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. for an open practice featuring food and drink with catering by Taproot for just $25. Click here to sign up as there are still a few spots open for this special event.

VOLLEYBALL: Gromala on Miami win, upcoming trip to Ohio and More

Head Volleyball Coach Don Gromala looks back at some strong play in a 1-1 weekend that included a victory at Miami. He also previews a difficult road match at Ohio on Thursday and a long-awaited return home to face Eastern Michigan on Saturday.

FIELD HOCKEY: Kathleen Wiler on winning the MAC Regular Season Championship

The Golden Flashes head coach talks about Sunday's victory at Ball State to clinch the Mid-American Conference Regular Season Championship. She also discusses dealing with pressure as the No. 1 seed heading into the MAC Tournament in Mount Pleasant, Mich.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Join the Flashes for food, drink, and the chance to watch practice on Nov. 6

Join us for food, drink and a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of a Kent State Golden Flashes Men's Basketball practice. The event will be held on Friday, Nov. 6 from 7-9 pm at the M.A.C. Center. Admission is $25 per person, which will include complimentary food, a beverage bar and an all-access opportunity to engage with our men's basketball team prior to the season.

Food will be provided by Taproot Catering.

For Reservations CLICK HERE

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff on preparations for upcoming scrimmage and more

Get the inside scoop from practice as the Golden Flashes prepare for an upcoming scrimmage and the start of the regular season on Nov. 14 when Youngstown State visits the M.A.C. Center as part of a college basketball doubleheader presented by Coaches vs. Cancer.

VOLLEYBALL: Don Gromala on wins 6 and 7 in a row

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at wins No. 6 and 7 in a row last week during a road trip to Northern Illinois and Western Michigan, Challen Geraghty becoming the fastest to 1000 digs, and more in today's video blog.

FIELD HOCKEY: Kathleen Wiler Video Blog, Oct. 26, 2015

The Golden Flashes head coach reviews another successful weekend with wins over Ohio University and Cal before previewing Tuesday's big home battle with Ohio State.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Danielle O'Banion on team improvement in practice and Sunday scrimmage

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at a week of hard work and improvement that included a scrimmage with another school on Sunday followed by Hoops 'N Halloween at the M.A.C. Center. The start of the season is not far off as the team's exhibition opener vs Hiram College is set for Sunday, Nov. 8.

FOOTBALL: Bowling Green 48, Kent State 0

Bowling Green’s offense lived up to its reputation while remaining at the top of the Mid-American Conference East Division standings with a 48-0 victory over Kent State on Saturday at Dix Stadium.

“It was a disappointing game,” said Kent State head coach Paul Haynes, whose Golden Flashes fell to 3-5 overall and 2-2 in MAC play. The Flashes entered the game tied for second place in the MAC East with Ohio University. “We didn’t play very well today, but I give Bowling Green a lot of credit. They are a very good team … We can analyze it all we want, but they are a good football team and we didn’t play our best. This is what happens when you play a very good football team and don’t play your best.”

Falcons quarterback Matt Johnson, who is ranked No. 1 in the nation in passing, threw for five touchdowns during a 430-yard day. He also ran for a 4-yard touchdown to cap an opening drive that provided an early turning point.

Kent States’s defense – ranked No. 1 in the MAC in total defense this week – walked off the field almost five minutes into the game thinking it had scored an early victory by holding the Falcons scoreless on a drive deep into KSU territory. Instead, when Najee Murray was flagged for running into BGSU kicker Tyler Tate on a short field goal that had sailed wide right, the defense was forced to trot back onto the field.

A few plays later, Johnson scrambled into the end zone for a score that would be all the Falcons needed to improve to 6-2 overall and 4-0 in MAC play.

“Those are penalties you can’t have, especially when you get stops,” said Haynes. “But (Murray) was just playing hard. I can’t be upset with him for that. He was trying to make a play…and he made one later.”

Bowling Green led 14-0 after the first quarter and 31-0 by halftime thanks to Johnson touchdown passes of 24 yards to Ronnie Moore and 11 yards to Ryan Burbrink. Tate added a 22-yard field goal.

Falling behind early put Kent State’s offense in an uncomfortable position. Instead of sticking with the keep-away gameplan that worked so well in a 15-10 win at UMass last week, the Flashes were forced to become one-dimensional.

“The game got into one that is not our type of (situation),” Haynes admitted. “We are not scoring a bunch of points right now, so it was difficult for us to stay in it…We are behind a little bit on offense right now. We aren’t there yet. But we will get there.”

The second half saw Johnson connect with Moore again on a 58 yard score and with Roger Lewis on touchdown throws of 64 and 15 yards.

Kent State’s day was highlighted by Terence Waugh’s ninth sack of the season. Waugh began the day ranked No. 8 in the nation.

Murray also blokced a Tate field goal late in the second quarter.

In his second career start for Kent State, redshirt freshman quarterback George Bollas completed 12-of-25 passes for 111 yards and two interceptions.

Freshman Antwan Dixon led the Flashes in receiving with 52 yards on four catches after missing last week’s game at UMass to injury. Fellow freshman P.J. Simmons led KSU in rushing with 48 yards on five carries from his wide receiver position.

The No. 1-ranked team in the MAC in total offense out-gained Kent State 602-to-166, running 91 plays to the Flashes’ 51 while dominating time of possession 33:47-to-26:13.

The Golden Flashes, who were tied for second place with Ohio at the start of the day, will return to action on Thursday, Nov. 5 when Buffalo visits Dix Stadium for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, Bowling Green up 31-0 at halftime

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

The worst case scenario arrived for Kent State early as Bowling Green jumped out to a quick lead that is making it difficult for the Golden Flashes to follow their gameplan.

While the Falcons have a way of getting teams out of what they want to do, the Flashes have damaged their own hopes with some self-inflicted wounds. Their four penalties for 33 yards were critical in Bowling Green taking a 14-0 lead after the game was a little more than 10 minutes old.

The game was little more than seconds old when KSU was flagged for offsides while booting the opening kickoff.

The most damaging penalty was a running into the kicker call against Najee Murray, who bumped into the leg of BGSU’s Tyler Tate on a missed short field goal that would have kept the Falcons off of the scoreboard on their opening drive. The Falcons drive should have ended even earlier, though, as officials missed a clear holding call that sealed off the left side on a fourth-down conversion run.

Given a second and third life, BGSU converted with a 4-yard Matt Johnson touchdown run at the 9:40 mark of the first quarter.

Instead of walking off the field feeling pretty good about a bend-but-don't-break start, KSU's defense walked off with heads hanging.

It was an early turning point.

The Flashes couldn’t get off the field on third or fourth down again on subsequent drives, adding more penalties including an unsportsmanlike conduct on Elcee Refuge, as the Falcons tacked on a 24-yad Johnson-to-Moore touchdown with 4:38 to play in the first, a 11-yard Johnson-to-Burbrink touchdown pass with 14:35 to go in the second quarter, and a 22-yard Tate field goal with 8:45 to play.

In the first quarter alone, BGSU converted two 4th-and-1’s, a 3rd-and-7, a 3rd-and-10 and a 3rd-and-11.

Blown coverage on a well-executed pick play by Bowling Green led to an easy 58-yard hookup between Johnson and Ronnie Moore with 4:21 to play as the Falcons lead swelled to 31-0.

Kent State’s offense couldn’t do much. The Flashes had only one scoring threat, but that ended with a 39-yard field goal attempt by Shane Hynes hitting the left upright and caroming back into the end zone with 3:01 to play before halftime.

A great catch by Dixon on a 40-yard throw by Bollas provided that lone opportunity. The Flashes added a first down on on a targeting play by BGSU’s Dernard Turner on a post throw inside the Falcons 5. Turner was ejected.

All of the scoring has forced Kent State’s offense to be one dimensional...and this is not an offense that can afford to be pass only.

Kent State has seven rushing attempts against 13 passes. Two other pass plays (the targeting penalty and a pass interference call) don’t show up in the stats.

The stats are pretty ugly:

Bowling Green has out-gained Kent State 387-to-94. Those numbers come on 55 plays run by the BGSU offense against KSU's 23.

The Falcons have 21 first downs to Kent State’s five.

They have also possessed the ball for 18:58 compared to KSU’s 11:02.

On third down, Bowling Green is 9-of-14 while KSU is 1-for-5. The Falcons are also 2-for-2 on fourth down.

FOOTBALL: Kent State vs Bowling Green, Pregame

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

Can the Golden Flashes’ offense play keep away from the Bowling Green offense just as it did last week at UMass?

I’ve talked with a few KSU fans this week who want to see the Flashes open up the gameplan a bit, but my guess is that’s unlikely considering what Paul Haynes said in his video blog this week. This is still a young Kent State offense that is focusing on even younger, less experienced playmakers every week. George Bollas is a redshirt freshman making just his second career start this afternoon, and with ball possession more important than ever this week, look for the Flashes to try their best to run the football, eat clock, and look for some short, high-percentage passes when they throw the football.

The Flashes could still be inventive whene the opportunity arises. The expected return of freshman speedster Antwan Dixon raises those odds. Dixon returns after missing the UMass game due to an injury suffered two weeks ago at Toledo. Also back is Ernest Calhoun, so the Flashes get a bit quicker on offense. They also get stronger up front with the return of Reno Reda, who also missed last week’s game at UMass.

The key to the game is going to be keeping Bowling Green from jumping out to a quick early lead. That has been the norm for Matt Johnson and the Falcons offense. When the Falcons score points in bunches early in the game, they can force opposing offenses to become one-dimensional, taking a great deal of pressure off of the BGSU defense in the process. The Falcons loved it when an already pass-happy UMass offense threw the ball exclusively in an attempt to catch up two weeks ago in a 62-38 BGSU win.

This should be an interesting chess match between Haynes and defensive coordinator Brian George against a Bowling Green coaching staff that is expert in overwhelming opponents with the speed and efficiency of the Falcons spread offense.

Bowling Green has scored 62 and 59 points in its last two games against UMass and Akron, respectively.

I’m anxious to see how KSU’s cornerbacks matchup against a BGSU receiving corps led by Roger Lewis, who may be the most dangerous receiver to play Dix Stadium since Bowling Green’s Freddie Barnes caught 22 passes for 278 yards in a 36-35 win over Kent State. That KSU team had talent in the secondary in Josh Pleasant, Norman Woolfe and Brian Lainhart. This year’s Kent State secondary has similar talent in Demetrius Monday, Najee Murray, Jordan Italiano and Nate Hollley, but more depth in players like Junatez McRae, Nick Cuthbert and Quan Robinson. The only problem there is BGSU’s pace offensively makes it difficult for defenses to get fresh legs onto the field.

FOOTBALL: Paul Haynes video blog, defending high-powered offenses

The Golden Flashes head coach gets into some football theory while discussing how to defend high-powered offenses like UMass and Bowling Green. Second-place Kent State hosts first-place Bowling Green in a battle for the top of the MAC East Division standings on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Dix Stadium.




We hope to see you at Dix Stadium on Saturday when first-place Bowling Green visits second-place Kent State in a battle for the top of the Mid-American Conference East Division standings. Kickoff at Dix Stadium is set for 1 p.m.

MEN'S GOLF: Herb Page reviews the fall season and looks ahead to a winter of work

The Golden Flashes Men's Golf Team wrapped up its fall season over the weekend playing in an elite field at the U.S. Collegiate in Alpharetta, Ga.

The team is won't compete again until the spring tees off in February with a trip to the Louisiana Classics in Lafayette.

That doesn't mean the team is off for the better part of four months. Herb Page checks in to discuss what lies ahead at the team's state-of-the-art practice facility as players will make some changes to their games in anticipation of a run at another MAC Championship and a trip to an NCAA regional.

In today's video blog, Page also discusses a fall season from a still-young group that was just a round or two away from being extremely encouraging. The Flashes won the Cleveland Invitational and were also in the hunt at several other events.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff video blog on new rules, scrimmages and seniors making jump

The Golden Flashes head coach on seniors making important jumps heading into their final seasons, scrimmage updates and some important dates coming up.

Officials have been regulars at practice and scrimmages to help the Flashes get used to some rule changes for the 2015-16 season.

Among the seniors who have impressed is Khaliq Spicer, who leads the team in both scoring and rebounding through 12 practices.

GYMNASTICS: Brice Biggin video blog previews the 2015-16 campaign

Kent State Gymnastic is at work in preparation for the 2015-16 season. Head coach Brice Biggin gives you a preview of this year's squad and the schedule ahead in his video blog.

VOLLEYBALL: Don Gromala Video Blog reflects on a pair of weekend wins

The Golden Flashes head coach reflects on a pair of weekend wins that have the program off to its best conference start since 2007. Gromala also previews a road run that includes a trip to play at Northern Illinois and Western Michigan in the coming week.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, Defense has the Flashes in position at UMass

UPDATE: Youth on offense and a spectacular defensive effort helped the Golden Flashes secure a 15-10 victory over UMass and move into a second-place tie in the Mid-American Conference East Division at 2-1. For the whole story, notes, photos and video, visit KentStateSports.com.

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

A Shane Hynes field goal of 39 yards has Kent State up 13-10 after three quarters, but the Flashes are in a precarious position to start the fourth as Anthony Melchiori will be punting from the back of his own end zone.

UMass downed a punt inside the KSU 1 to start the drive, although it appeared the Minutemen player had his foot on the line as he kept the football out of the end zone. There was no review.

As I type, Melchiori boomed a 45-yarder when the Flashes had to have a big punt. Minutemen will start from midfield.

Penalties have hurt UMass as well. The Minutemen were driving for a potential game-tying field goal or a touchdown for the lead, completing a third-down pass for a first down deep in Kent State territory only to have that play eliminated by a hold.

Flashes defense has been poised since giving up some big chunks of yardage on the ground in the second quarter.

UMass opened the third quarter with an attempted trick play, but KSU sniffed out the throwback pass to Fronhapfel. Cuthbert flushed him out of the pocket and Cunninhgam brought him down for the sack.

KSU’s entire defense saw a screen pass coming on the next play, forcing Fronhapfel to dump the football into the dirt.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, youth has Flashes in halftime tie at UMass

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

Kent State and UMass are tied 10-10 at the half thanks to a 2-yard touchdown pass from Bollas to Charles Chandler.

The Flashes did a nice job of answering a long drive by UMass that tied the game on a 22-yard field goal prior to the touchdown march.

Bollas has done a nice job, completing 12-of-17 for 98 yards in his first start. The Flashes have been ultra conservative in their playcalling. That was obvious in a final drive that saw Kent State use up most of the clock instead of trying to improve their chances for a late score inside UMass territory. Instead of spiking the ball after picking up a first down, the Flashes allowed time to tick away before Bollas fired for the end zone. The deep throw was picked off to end the half.

Youth has been the name of the game for Kent State as fellow freshman Raekwon James has been a factor in both the passing (5 for 52 yards) and the running (7-for-38) games. Bollas has six rushing attempts for 55 yards, including a 25-yarder to get into UMass territory a few plays before his touchdown pass.

Unfortunately, another freshman, Myles Washington, who has 18 yards on six carries, had to be taken to the locker room with an injury.

Chandler, by the way, is yet another freshman, as is P.J. Simmons, who had a 19-yard catch at the sideline deep in UMass territory, setting the stage for the Flashes touchdown.

Freshman Shane Hynes scored the Flashes first points on a 22-yard field goal.

Frohnapfel has 137 yards passing and Sharpe has five catches or UMass, but that dangerous duo has been held mostly in check. Cuthbert has a pick of Frohnapfel.

The Kent State offense has actually outgained the high-powered UMass passing game.

FOOTBALL: Live blog, 1st quarter at UMass

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

Bollas got the start at quarterback for Kent State and connected on his first two passes of the game, keeping the play alive on his second throw while rolling to his right to find Woods at the first-down marker.

The Flashes are running more option plays with Bollas at quarterback. He held on to the football to the last minute on a play near the UMass sideline before finally pitching to Washington for another first down.

Unfortunately, the Flashes slowed themselves on the first two drives of the day with penalties.

Kent State’s defense has surrendered some yards, but managed to avoid surrendering points so far.  A 71-yard opening possession by UMass ended with a missed field goal from 42 yards out.  The Flashes forced a quick punt on the Minetemen’s second drive.

Big chunks of yards on the ground have helped UMass move deep into KSU territory on the drive No. 3. The Minutemen will be at the KSU 16 to open the second quarter.

Fronhapfel and Sharpe (the MAC’s No. 2 ranked quarterback and No. 1 ranked wide receiver, respectively) have hooked up a few times, but the big yards ofr the Minutemen have come on the ground as the offensive line has opened some big holes.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, pregame at UMass

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

The Golden Flashes are at UMass today in an important game to keep pace in the Mid-American Conference East Division race. At the start of the day, Ohio University and Bowling Green were the East's lone undefeated teams, followed by Kent State and Akron at 1-1 with Buffalo, UMass and Miami all looking for their first conference wins.

As I type this, Ohio trails Western Michigan 7-0 just before halftime while Bowling Green and Akron kickoff just before the Flashes at 3 p.m.

Today's KSU vs. UMass game is interesting in that it matches up two units that have generally played well this season in the Flashes defense and the Minutemen offense. After talking with head coach Paul Haynes this week, he is convinced that it will come down which "work in progress" play better between the KSU offense and UMass defense.

Injuries and other issues could have an impact on a Kent State offense that ranks 12th out of the MAC's 13 teams this season at 18.5 points per game.

UMass is just 10th, offensively, but at 25.2 points per game and boasting a passing game that features the MAC's No. 2 passer in Blake Frohnapfel (324.6 yards per game) and its No. 1 pass catcher in 6-foot-3 Tajae Sharpe (138.4 yards per game), the Minutemen have some dangerous weapons.

The Flashes will not try to match up either Demetrius Monday or Najee Murray against Sharpe. I talked with Haynes about that idea earlier in the week, and he said that's mostly an NFL strategy due to the narrow hashmarks. KSU cornerbacks play field and boundary.

On this week's radio show, Haynes said a decision at quarterback between Colin Reardon and George Bollas will be made at gametime.  Both are expected to play, however.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: An "Aha Moment" in Danielle O'Banion's Video Blog

Head coach Danielle O'Banion discusses the importance of film study, including taking the time to get a good second look at practice, and an "Aha moment" with this year's team.

VOLLEYBALL: Don Gromala video blog previews home weekend vs. Toledo and Ball State

Kent State Volleyball is coming off of an impressive weekend on the road that included victories over both Buffalo and Akron as well as a player of the week honoree in the Mid-American Conference. Head coach Don Gromala discusses all of that before previewing a big homestand on Friday and Saturday.

The Flashes battle Toledo on Friday at 7 p.m. at the M.A.C. Center before hosting the annual Dig For the Cure on Saturday at 7 p.m. when Ball State visits.

We hope to see you at the M.A.C. Center.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff Video Blog looks at the second week of practice

The Golden Flashes head coach talks about the second week of practice, who is improving, dedication to offensive rebounding and more in today's video blog.

Kent State alums in the NFL come up big again on national television

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

What a night for Kent State alumni.

Four former Golden Flashes were on the field in San Diego tonight – James Harrison, Dri Archer and Roosevelt Nix for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Antonio Gates for the San Diego Chargers.

It was the future hall of fame tight end who made the early headlines in his first game back this season. Gates put the Chargers ahead in the first quarter when he caught the 100th touchdown pass of his career. That made him just the second player at his position to secure his 100th touchdown.

Whenever I look through our archives for a photo of Antonio, I always seem to grab one of the shots from the Sweet 16 victory over Pittsburgh. Ironically, Gates' big night came against another team from the steel city. He grabbed touchdown No. 101 in the second half, completing a nine-catch, 92-yard night.

It was a different KSU alum who had a hand in the game-winning score, however. Roosevelt Nix was the lead blocker for Le'Veon Bell on the Steelers' daring final play at the gun.

It's amazing how many undrafted former Kent State players have made it in the NFL playing roles that are completely different from the ones they filled during their college days.

Gates was, of course, a basketball player at KSU before chasing his NFL dream as a tight end. I was a sportswriter covering the Flashes back then, and what some might not remember was that Gates had a shot to make it in the league playing yet another position. The Ravens and Colts were the very first teams to show an interest in Gates and visit Kent. I talked with the Ravens scout during that visit, and he liked Gates as a linebacker. Remember, Gates was a defensive player when he was recruited to Michigan State. Former Flashes head football coach Dean Pees had Gates at defensive end for Kent State during a brief period at spring practice at the end of his junior year.

Nix was a defensive lineman at Kent State before making the switch to fullback to make the Steelers roster this year. And you all know the stories of Joshua Cribbs and Julian Edelman going from quarterbacks at Kent State to wide receivers and return men in the NFL.

It's no surprise that players like Gates, Nix and Edelman made it the way they did. All three were players who overcame questions to become successful at Kent State. Gates made several college stops before finding his way to Kent State, and he was a matchup nightmare in his two seasons as a somewhat undersized power forward with guard skills. The Dallas Mavericks actually looked at Gates briefly as a possibility as a point guard. Then-coach Don Nelson liked those kind of projects and the potential for creating unusual matchups.

People wondered if Nix and Edelman were too small to play at the next level during their college games. People questioned if Edelman was big enough to play quarterback in college, so he decided to prove his value at the junior college level. Kent State believed in him.

Cribbs was a bit different in that he was big, strong and fast coming out of Washington DC area, and some big college recruiters liked him. They just wanted him to play defensive back instead of quarterback. Maryland wanted him as a safety. Pees was the only coach who was willing to commit to giving Cribbs a chance to play quarterback. Cribbs wanted that chance and instead of taking major conference offers, he went to the school that believed in him.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, Toledo in control

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

Kent State’s offense continues to struggle as Toledo has extended its lead to 31-7.

George Bollas remained at quarterback to open the third quarter, and while he has made a few big plays, the offense still hasn’t been able to add a point to the scoreboard. One promising drive ended with an interception in the end zone on a first down play from the Toledo 28 midway through the quarter.

The penalties continue to roll up against Kent State. Through three quarters, the Flashes have been flagged nine times for 83 yards, including another personal foul  (this time for roughing the quarterback) to set up Toledo’s lone score of the quarter – a 1-yard dive by Kareem Hunt.

Some numbers:

• Toledo has outgained Kent State 392-to-211
• Phillip Ely’s numbers have improved, now 17-for-30 for 190 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions
• Terry Swanson has 161 yards on 14 carries for Toledo while Kareem Hunt looks to have returned to form in his return from a hamstring injury, adding 54 yards on 12 attempts.
• Bollas leads Kent State’s rushing attach with 45 yards on five carries. Trayion Durham has 34 yards on 12 attempts and Raekwon James, after opening the game with a 16-yard run, has 19 yards now on six carries.

Not much has gone right for the Flashes since the first quarter came to an end. It was a good game after 15 minutes.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog from Toledo, halftime update

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

A tough second quarter all the way around for Kent State as Toledo turns a 7-7 tie after one quarter into a 24-7 lead going into the locker room.

The Kent State defense was so good the last few weeks was gashed for several big plays, including an 88-yard run by Terry Swanson to set up the Rockets final touchdown late in the second quarter. KSU had the Rockets pinned inside their 10 before Swanson broke free. He finally ran out of gas inside the Flashes’ 5 as Matt Dellinger pushed the back out of bounds to delay a Rockets score by just one play.

Toledo out-gained KSU almost 2-to-1 (195-to-100) in the second quarter. The big problem has been a run defense that has allowed Toledo to gain 162 yards on 24 carries, including 150 on 10 attempts by Swanson. 

The pass defense has been a bit better as Toledo quarterback Phillip Ely is just 9-for-19. But the Rockets have big plays in the passing game as well as Cody Thompson, Alonzo russell and Darryl Richards have catches of 35, 26 and 25 yards, respectively.

Penalties have killed Kent State again. In all, the Flashes have been flagged seven times for 58 yards, including two personal foul penalties on a Toledo drive that ended with a 23-yard Swanson touchdown run to give the Rockets the lead at 14-7 with 11:51 to play in the second quarter.

The second personal foul was questionable at best as Nate Holley was trying to fight off a block near the sideline and then was blocked into the ball carrier at the sideline.

Some more bad news arrived early in the quarter as freshman speedster Antwan Dixon was knocked out of the game and taken to the Flashes’ locker room.

George Bollas provided a bit of a spark in relief of Colin Reardon late in the second quarter. The redshirt freshman was 3 for his first 3 and finished 4-for-8 for 43 yards. He also did a nice job running with the football, keeping plays alive and then occasionally breaking containment on two carries for 16 yards – both picking up first downs.

Bollas also moved the chains with a nice 12-yard throw to Johnny Woods on third down.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, First Quarter at Toledo

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

It’s always nice to get a lead before the offense takes the field.

That was the case for Kent State today as Ryan Siebert recovered the football in the end zone after a bad snap on Toledo’s punt to end the first series of the game. Siebert made a great play on the football, ripping at the ball as punter Nick Ellis appeared to be in position to recover.

With 14:21 to play, the Flashes had a 7-0 lead. That advantage stood up after the second series when kicker Jameson Vest missed wide left on a relatively short field goal.

Unfortunately, the Kent State offense hasn’t done a whole lot despite finding some holes early in the running game. A holding penalty derailed a promising first KSU drive that saw Raekwon James pick up 16 on the first play and then another big gain into Toledo territory. 

The Flashes ran for 32 yards on seven plays. The passing game, meanwhile, managed just 10 yards on 2-for-6 attempts by Colin Reardon.

Toledo took advantage of a few KSU penalties on an 8-play, 71-yard drive that ended with Phillip Ely finding Corey Jones for a 3-yard touchdown. 

A bad early trend has been penalties as KSU has already been flagged four times for 23 yards, including a couple of drive killers.

This crew seems a bit penalty happy. One of the flags helped Kent State in a big way, though, as a block in the back took away a touchdown return for Toledo on the opening kickoff. It was an obvious call, though, as the entire KSU sideline erupted on the block. Most of the stadium did not see the flag until long after the play came to an end. Many of us on the Flashes sideline thought the officials missed it.

FOOTBALL: Live Blog at Toledo, Pregame

David Carducci
Director of New Media

TOLEDO, Ohio – Listening to ESPN Radio on the drive in to Toledo today and some experts had some nice things to say about Kent State just before the start of the GameDay simulcast.

They liked Kent State to keep this game closer than Vegas expects, pointing to the belief that the Golden Flashes defense may be the class of the Mid-American Conference while the status of Kareem Hunt (hamstring) is questionable. While they believe Hunt will play, he is listed No. 2 on the depth chart today behind Damion Jones-Moore.

This might be the day that Kent State finds some life in the passing game. The Rockets' secondary is a bit banged up. As KSU head coach Paul Haynes pointed out in his newsletter to season ticket holders earlier today, Toledo's defensive front is athletic, talented, and very good against the run. Look for former KSU defensive coordinator Jon Heacock to stack the box against the Flashes and dare Colin Reardon to throw over the top.

The Flashes get a bit healthier at running back today as Myles Washington is expected to be back. He is listed No. 2 behind Trayion Durham on the depth chart. Nick Holley is still out, but Raekwon James should also see time in the backfield rotation.

Toledo has yet to allow a sack this season due in part to exceptional play on the offensive line and also to the quick passing game that sees Phillip Ely get the ball out of his hands to Alonzo Russell, Corey Jones and Cody Thompson. KSU has done a great job of pressuring the quarterback this year, bettering last season's sack total of nine already with 18 through five games. There is obviously a connection between that improvement and this year's interception numbers – up from 8 all last season to 10 this year, including five alone by national leader Demetrius Monday.

Can KSU find a way to get to Ely and make him speed up his mechanics in a passing game designed to make quick plays? According to Haynes, the Flashes need to find a way.

Kent State will feature a different look today with a pink logo on the helmet and pink shorts in honor of breast cancer awareness. Upset the No. 24-ranked team in the nation and could we see a new color scheme at Kent State? According to legend, it took only a washing mishap to influence a change in team colors almost a century ago when purple and orange uniforms faded into blue and gold.

FOOTBALL: Paul Haynes on what goes into playing the safety positions at Kent State

Great safety play has been a staple of Kent State defenses going back more than a decade. Head coach Paul Haynes was a safety at Kent State in his playing days. Today he discusses the technique, attitude and intellect that goes into playing the position. He also discusses the current Flashes at free and strong safety and how the position is in good hands for the future.


The Golden Flashes well be at Toledo on Saturday to face the No. 24-ranked Rockets. You can watch on ESPN3 or listen on either WHLO 640 AM or iHeartRadio's Golden Flashes Channel.

Director of new media David Carducci will also be here on the blog and on Twitter (@CarducciKSU) to provide updates live from the Glass Bowl.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Danielle O'Banion on the start of practice and setting "The Gold Standard"

The Golden Flashes are back from their first ever team retreat. The start of practice includes "the Gold Standard", looking back at the history of the program and setting goals based on a visit with some KSU women's basketball alumni.

Head coach Danielle O'Banion talks about those goals and more in this week's video blog:

FIELD HOCKEY: Kathleen Wiler Video Blog on KSU's road warriors

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at a gritty comeback effort to force overtime at Indiana and a shutout win at Central Michigan. Beating the Chippewas improved KSU's Mid-American Conference record to 2-0. The team is on the road again this weekend with a Sunday game at Missouri State. The Flashes then return home Oct. 16 for a rivalry game vs. Miami.

VOLLEYBALL: Don Gromala on a 1-1 weekend and preview of road trips to Akron and Buffalo

The Golden Flashes head coach looks back at a 1-1 weekend that included a solid road win at Central Michigan.

He also previews a difficult week ahead on the road to face Buffalo and Akron.

It's not too early to make your plans to see the Flashes when they return home for matches against Toledo on Oct. 16 and Ball State on Oct. 17. We hope to see  you at the M.A.C. Center!

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Rob Senderoff on the start of 2015-16 practice

The Golden Flashes head coach discusses the first weekend of practice, how new players are fitting in, how returning players have upped their games, and more in the first 2015-16 men's basketball video blog

FOOTBALL: Kent State vs. Miami wrapup

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

Kent State survived a scary fourth quarter for a 20-14 victory over Miami that has the Golden Flashes off to a 1-0 start in Mid-American Conference play.

Paul Haynes wasn't happy with what he called a "sloppy finish", but he is pleased with the way this team is developing depth. The Flashes are seeing more players than in past years contribute, and that is encouraging for the future of the program. Looking at true freshman Juantez McRae's athletic, game-saving interception with 1:02 to play, and the fact that he is getting time in that situation and making the most of it points to a continuation of a decade-long run of exceptional play at the safety positions.

The Flashes were without Nick Holley and another impressive true freshman in Myles Washington at running back on Saturday, so the Flashes used redshirt freshman Raekwon James to spell Trayion Durham. James turned in one of the most electrifying plays of the day with a 50-yard run in the first quarter to set up an early field goal.

Sophomore James Alexander set the stage for McRae's game-saving pick by hitting Miami's quarterback as he threw. Alexander was already having a phenomenal day before that big moment, breaking up a pass while pressuring on another play and adding 1 1/2 sacks.

We learned early on this season that Antwan Dixon can be a game-changer at wide receiver. I was impressed yesterday by the blocking on the edge by the rest of the Flashes receivers, including Kris White and Ernest Calhoun, helping to break some bigger plays in space within KSU's short passing game. Watch the receiver at the top of the screen in the GIF of Calhoun's touchdown pass. He stays with the play and gets enough of three different RedHawks defenders to help spring Calhoun. It's possible Calhoun's speed would have broken the play for a score anyway, but that desire to make blocks down the field from the receiver position is the kind of effort that wins games.

Update from Dix Stadium: Reardon to Calhoun for a 44-yard TD. @KentStFootball leads Miami 20-0, 6:45 2Q pic.twitter.com/ztLsQQrIH9

— Kent State Athletics (@KentStAthletics) October 3, 2015

The defense is one of the deepest and most talented we've seen at Kent State in recent years, and with playmakers developing at wide receiver and running back, there is reason to expect continued improvement on that side of the ball.

I heard lots of grumbling about a few plays, including an option pitch to Durham that was dropped for no gain when the Flashes needed just a yard to move the chains. The Record-Courier's Allen Moff talked to head coach Paul Haynes about the option and its place in the gameplan this season. While the Flashes have picked up a few big runs on the read option this season, the more traditional option pitch has seen ugly results, with fumbles and few yards gained. But as Haynes pointed out to Moff, a fake of that "base play" turned into Dixon's long reverse run for a touchdown on Saturday.

The Flashes should get healthier for next week's game at Toledo. Haynes said Washington will be back to join the running back rotation.

FOOTBALL LIVE BLOG: Kent State leads Miami 20-0 after 3Q

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

Kent State's defense continues to dominate and Ernest Calhoun has added to the Flashes lead with an electrifying play in the open field.

Calhoun took a 14-yard pass, put on a move in the open field, and then turned on the afterburners on his way to a 44-yard touchdown right through the middle of the Miami defense. The score gave the Flashes their 20-0 lead.

Miami's defense threatened briefly, but Demetrius Monday turned the RedHawks away with his second interception of the game and fifth pick of the season – a leaping play near the 10-yard line that the sophomore cornerback returned to the Miami 44.

Dixon is developing into a real threat in his freshman season at wide receiver. He helped jump start a KSU drive at the end of the third quarter with a nice catch and run over the middle. The Flashes will open the fourth quarter in Miami territory, facing a second and 11 at the RedHawks 38.

Miami now has 10 drives – 8 ending in punts and 2 in interceptions.

The RedHawks are 9-of-24 passing for 116 yards and the two picks.

Update from Dix Stadium: Reardon to Calhoun for a 44-yard TD. @KentStFootball leads Miami 20-0, 6:45 2Q pic.twitter.com/ztLsQQrIH9

— Kent State Athletics (@KentStAthletics) October 3, 2015

FOOTBALL LIVE BLOG: Dixon breaks away

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

Antwan Dixon's speed was flashed again as the freshman scored for the third time in three games with Kent State. This time it was a 75-yard reverse that saw him outrun everyone down the left sideline...Everyone that is with the exception of Reno Reda. The Kent State left tackle was out in front of the play on the reverse, and provided the escort for all 75 yards.

The secondary continues to dominate this game...and with help on the way after the break in the return of Nate Holley and Najee Murray.

Demetrius Monday has his fourth pick of the season–a leaping interception of a Kummer pass in front of the KSU bench.

After an up-and-down first few weeks, Melchiori is back to booming punts again, flipping the field and forcing Miami to go the length of the field. He found a great bounce punting out of his end zone on a 69-yard kick that forced the RedHawks to start at their own 23 instead of finding a short field.

The RedHawks have 7 drives today – 6 have ended with punts and one on Demetrius Monday's fourth pick of the season.

Total yards though two quarters – 211-to-85 in favor of the Flashes.

Does freshman Antwan Dixon’s speed remind anyone of another @KentStFootball player who wore the No. 1? pic.twitter.com/rTf4UwiEQL

— David Carducci (@CarducciKSU) October 3, 2015

FOOTBALL LIVE BLOG: Kent State leads Miami 6-0 after 1Q

By David Carducci
Director of New Media

The Flashes lead 6-0 behind field goals of 38 and 28 yards by Shane Hynes. The running game rolled up 119 yards on 20 carries in the first quarter, including a 50-yard burst by freshman Raekwon James in relief of Trayion Durham.

Kent State was forced to settle for field goals on deep drives deep into Miami territory on the game's first two possessions.

The key to the lead, though, has been the play of KSU's secondary. Playing shorthanded in the defensive backfield this half, the Flashes have yet to allow a pass completion. Miami quarterback Drew Kummer is 0-for-5 as Quan Robinson and Demetrius Monday have blanketed the RedHawks big receivers.

The 50-yard run by James, which featured some nifty sidestepping and a few broken tackles, showed off the depth of the Flashes running game. Durham and Washington were outstanding last week in relief of the injured Nick Holley. Today it was the redshirt freshman James who gets the shot to carry the ball after Durham opened, and he made the most of it.

The pass rush has been good again as Anthony Johnson has a pass break and Matt Dillinger has added a sack.

Some 1st quarter numbers:

• Durham has 8 carries for 34 yards
• The Flashes have out-gained Miami 119-to-47.
• Kent State's defense has 4 tackles for losses while limiting Miami to 0 passing yards and no completions in five attempts.
• Colin Reardon is just 1-for-4 through the air, but he has done a nice job with the read option with 23 yards on four carries.

FOOTBALL LIVE BLOG: Pregame, Kent State vs. Miami

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

2:45 p.m. ... It was great to catch up with Joshua Cribbs just a few minutes ago in the press box of Dix Stadium.

Cribbs is working his second game providing color commentary on ESPN3, partnering with Doug Sherman on play by play.

Josh still looks like he could play, so it will be interesting to see what happens if another NFL team comes calling after week six when veterans become more affordable.

Whether he plays another down or not in the NFL, Cribbs has already made his mark in the league, and his knowledge of the game as a college quarterback and pro wide receiver and special-teams standout should make him a success in this new part of his career.

I had a chance to talk to Julian Edelman for a few moments last night at the team hotel in Cuyahoga Falls. The former KSU quarterback is in town to serve as grand marshal of the homecoming parade. He spent some time with the Flashes last night, sharing some of what he has learned in the pros and specifically some lessons and stories culled from playing under Bill Belichick with the Patriots.

Edelman will be in the press box at halftime for a short press conference, and we are looking forward to getting a photo of him with Josh. In the meantime, click on the images to the right for some shots of Cirbbs prior to today's game and Edelman talking with players last night.

ESPN is following Edelman this week to get film for an E60 special on his rise to success.

2:40 p.m. ... Watching pregame warmups, and Jordan Italiano and Demetrius Monday were moving around well, which is encouraging as both had been nursing minor injuries.

Their leadership in the defensive backfield is going to be more important than ever in the first half of today's game as the Flashes wait for the return of Nate Holley and Najee Murray.

To add insult to injury after being ejected last week after two questionable calls, both Holley are allowed to warm up today but must return to the locker room and stay their for the entire first half. They are not allowed on the sideline.

The Flashes will also be without running back Nick Holley, who will miss his second consecutive game to injury.

The emergence of players like Cuthbert and Robinson in the secondary and a freshman like Myles Washington to spell Trayion Durham at running back shows the development of this team. Depth has always been an issue for teams like Kent State. I was talking with radio man Ty Linder earlier this week and we remembered just how tough it has been in the past for the Flashes to cover up for injuries like Holley's. Even last year, when Durham was hurt, the Flashes felt pressure to move Holley from wide receiver to running back to fill the gap, and then give him the bulk of the carries behind a young offensive line. This year, Holley has developed into a consistent playmaker when healthy, Durham is back, and the Flashes are confident Washington, redshirt freshman Raekwon James or Miles Hibbler are capable of carrying the rushing load if pressed into extended service. That's a luxury with which we are not familiar at Kent State.

2 p.m. ... Just how much will Miami try to pick on Kent State's depleted secondary in the first 30 minutes of today's homecoming game at Dix Stadium?

Demetrius Monday at one cornerback and Jordan Italiano at strong safety are the only regular starters available for the first two quarters today while Nate Holley and Najee Murray sit out suspensions for drawing targeting penalties on soft hits last week against Marshall. Nick Cuthbert gets the start at free safety while Quan Robinson moves in at cornerback. Both played well in fourth-quarter relief against the Thundering Herd, but they are likely be tested against a Miami team that may try to go over the top in the passing game to some tall wide receivers.

RedHawks starters Sam Martin and and Chris Hudson stand 6-foot-3 and 6-6, respectively, while their backups at wide receiver are 6-5 and 6-1 in Sam Shisso and Rokeem Williams.

Kent State couldn't find a pattern in how Miami rotates quarterbacks Drew Kummer and Gus Ragland, but putting pressure on that group with the front seven will be a key to the Flashes surviving until they are full strength in the secondary following the halftime break. Miami's offensive line has done a decent job of keeping all three of their quarterbacks upright, allowing just six sacks this season. KSU defensive lineman Terence Waugh already has 6 1/2 sacks this season all by himself – 3rd in the nation.

Based on the success of the run game last week and the development of KSU's own offensive line, my bet is that the Flashes will try to eat some clock and play keep away by pounding the ball behind Trayion Durham and Myles Washington and throwing some short, high-percentage passes that are extensions of the running game with the potential of getting speedsters Antwan Dixon or Ernest Calhoun into some space. Dixon has demonstrated that he can break it big with those opportunities.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Danielle O'Banion Video Blog on this weekend's team retreat and the start of practice on Monday

Head Women's Basketball coach Danielle O'Banion checks in with a video blog discussing this weekend's team retreat, the chemistry being created on a roster filled with several new faces, and the excitement about the start of practice beginning on Monday.

FOOTBALL: Paul Haynes on the success of Terence Waugh

Kent State head football coach Paul Haynes looks back at last week's game at Marshall and discusses what made Terence Waugh so successful in a three-sack effort. He talks about Waugh's technique, his use of his wingspan and the impact a of his teammates on a deep and talented defensive line.




The Golden Flashes are back in action Saturday at 3:30 p.m. on Homecoming Weekend at Kent State.

Miami University is in town for the start of Mid-American Conference play. We hope to see you there. We'll welcome back several alumni, including New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman, who will serve as grand marshal of the homecoming parade, and Joshua Cribs, who will be on the ESPN3 broadcast team.

And remember, the first 500 students in attendance get a free t-shirt!

VOLLEYBALL: Don Gromala Video Blog previews Thursday vs. Ohio University

Head coach Don Gromala takes a look back at a 1-1 weekend vs. Miami and Bowling Green before previewing a big home battle with Ohio University on Thursday at 7 p.m.

Wear your Kent State colors for what will be a GOLD OUT game vs the Bobcats.

On Saturday, the Flashes will go on the road for the first time in Mid-American Conference play, taking on Central Michigan at 8 p.m. in Mount Pleasant.



Thursday's volleyball match is the first event in a big Homecoming Weekend at Kent State that will see KSU Soccer host games vs. Western Michigan on Friday and Northern Illinois on Sunday while KSU Football welcomes Miami to town at 3:30 pm on Saturday for the annual homecoming game.

BASEBALL: Lauer on Cape Cod League, Scout Day

After posting "video game statistics" in the Cape Cod League this summer (according to D1Baseball), Eric Lauer has received a lot of recognition and is slated to be a top draft pick in 2016. Kent State recently hosted a Scout Day where about 50 professionals came out to see Lauer's abilities and take a look at some his teammates. The junior left-hander took some time to talk about his summer in the Cape, the Scout Day experience and handling the pressure.

FOOTBALL: Kent State vs. Marshall wrap up

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

The questionable calls and the near misses of Saturday were heartbreaking, but there is still reason to be excited about the future of Kent State Football following Saturday's overtime loss to Marshall.

I would have loved to see what would have happened if Holley and Murray were on the field at the end. Both were disqualified from the game on questionable personal foul penalties while last week's MAC defensive player of the week left the field on a far more dangerous rugby ruck that probably should have blown dead when forward progress had been stopped.

The play of some younger defensive backs in the absence of the starters should have KSU fans excited about the depth on that side of the football. The relentless work from the front seven in the absence of those veteran defensive backs showed some impressive grit. To take pressure off of the young replacements in the secondary, the Flashes pass rushers pinned back their ears and attacked the quarterback. Along the way, Waugh further established himself as the next in a long line of dominant pass rushers at Kent State in the mold of James Harrison, Monte Simmons, Justin Parrish, and many others.

The defensive line is physical, strong, athletic and deep. That's exciting.

While the offense may not be quite where the fans would like to see it, the offensive line is improving with every game. That unit opened some big holes on Saturday. The running back corps is as deep as we have seen in a very long time at Kent State. How many times in years past have watched a Kent State team lose its top ball carrier and then watched young backs who weren't ready to take over the rushing load struggle in that absence?

The Flashes would love to be better than 1-3 right now, but after taking Minnesota and Marshall down to the wire in back-to-back weeks there is reason to believe Kent State can be a factor in the Mid-American Conference.

Nobody in the MAC is going to have any fun playing against this defense.

It's an entertaining football team, and I'm already looking forward to next week's Homecoming game against Miami.

Here are links to what others had to say following yesterday's game:

• Elton Alexander's take in the Plain Dealer
• Michael Bevin's piece in the Akron Beacon Journal
• Allen Moff's game story in the Record-Courier

FOOTBALL: Live Blog, Kent State has 19-14 lead over Marshall at end of 3Q

By David Carducci

Director of New Media

A potentially critical turnover for Kent State arrived just inside the four-minute mark when Raekwon James lost the ball at the end of a 17-yard slant throw from Colin Reardon. Marshall recovered the ball at midfield with the hope of cutting into the Flashes’ 19-14 lead.

Demetrius Monday made sure that wouldn’t happen with a brilliant recovery and pass breakup to force a three-and-out.

The fumble by James came as Kent State’s passing game was starting to find some life. The Flashes had taken a 19-7 lead on a 19-yard touchdown pass from Reardon to Ernest Calhoun. The score was set up by a 36-yard throw from Reardon to Dixon. On that first hookup with Dixon, Reardon used play action, then waited patiently for Dixon to clear the zone before lofting the ball to the freshman on a seam throw.

Unfortunately for KSU, Deandre Reeves answered quickly for Marshall with a 93-yard kickoff return.

The Flashes are 0-for-2 on two-point conversions. Hopefully that won’t come back to haunt the Flashes.

KSU is starting to gash Marshall a bit in the running game. Offensive line is opening some holes while Durham (18 carries for 67 yards) and Washington (9 carries, 52 yards) are finishing runs and dealing the bigger hits in collisions with Herd linebackers and defensive backs.

Washington had a key third-down run to move the chains just before the start of the fourth quarter, avoiding flipping the filed back to Marshall after starting a drive at the KSU 5.